How to Set Up a Notebook You’ll Actually Use

Summary

In this video, the creator walks viewers through setting up a pocket notebook that’s both functional and minimalistic. They explore various features of the Dingbats A6 notebook, from paper quality to customization options like adding a key for tasks, creating an index, and personalizing the pages. The video also provides useful journaling tips, such as how to break free from perfectionism and filter through daily notes. Additionally, a giveaway of notebooks and supplies is included, with viewers invited to participate by following simple steps. Perfect for anyone looking to start journaling with purpose and ease.

Takeaways

• 😀 You can set up a pocket notebook that you will actually want to use by prioritizing functionality and simplicity.
• 😀 The Dingbats A6 notebook is featured in the video, offering useful features like ribbon bookmarks, 100 GSM cream paper, micro perforation, and an elastic pen loop.
• 😀 Breaking in a new notebook is a personalized process, and customizing it should reflect what is comfortable and functional for you.
• 😀 Start your notebook setup by writing your name and the start and finish dates. Additional customization like stickers can be added for a more decorative look.
• 😀 A key system is helpful for task organization. You can use a standard key like Ryder Carol's Bullet Journal method or create your own customized version.
• 😀 Consider whether you want to keep the notebook long-term. If so, adding an index at the beginning helps track and reference important pages in the future.
• 😀 Page numbering at the start helps create a baseline, making it easier to reference your work later.
• 😀 Overcome perfectionism by starting with a simple task list, including breakfast notes, and a fun fact, and complete it by migrating unfinished tasks.
• 😀 Review and filter through your entries at the end of the day to ensure all tasks are completed or migrated, and consider saving useful information for future reference.
• 😀 Utilize the back pocket of the notebook for storing items like stickers, portable rulers, or other ephemera for easy access.
• 😀 The giveaway includes a Dingbats A6 notebook, clips, date stickers, sticky notes, glue tapes, writing utensils, and a retractable pencil, and the rules involve liking, subscribing, and commenting your country for entry.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video is to guide viewers on how to set up a pocket notebook in a practical and functional way, sharing tips for customization and efficient usage.

Why does the presenter emphasize breaking in a new notebook?

The presenter compares breaking in a notebook to a personalized process, similar to how ballerinas break in their point shoes, emphasizing that everyone’s process will be different and that it should be customized to suit individual needs.

What are the key elements in setting up the pocket notebook?

Key elements include creating a key for tasks, deciding whether to archive the notebook, setting up an index for easy reference, and numbering pages for consistency and organization.

What are the two task key systems shared in the video?

The first key system is by Ryder Carroll, which uses symbols like dots, Xs, slashes, and arrows to indicate the status of tasks. The second system is a simpler version created by the presenter, using dashes, plus signs, circles, arrows, and stars for task status.

What is the suggested way to handle incomplete tasks at the end of the day?

At the end of the day, incomplete tasks should be migrated to a new day, and any unnecessary information, like a fun fact, can either be archived or discarded based on its relevance.

How does the presenter recommend setting up the index in the notebook?

The presenter suggests dedicating 3-4 pages for the index at the beginning of the notebook, labeling the top as 'Index,' and including two columns: 'Title' on the left and 'Page Number' on the right.

What should be written on the first page of the notebook?

On the first page, the date and a description of what was eaten for breakfast should be written, along with three tasks for the day. The idea is to break the perfectionist instinct and get started with a simple, non-ideal entry.

What is the purpose of using colored pens in the notebook?

Colored pens are used to denote completed tasks or reviewed pages, helping to visually track which tasks or notes have been addressed or migrated.

What types of items are suggested to store in the back pocket of the notebook?

The back pocket can be used to store items like stickers, a portable ruler, metric conversions, affirmations, receipts, or any other useful ephemera that one might want to keep handy.

What is included in the giveaway, and how can viewers participate?

The giveaway includes a Dingbats A6 notebook, clips, date stickers, transparent sticky notes, glue tapes, and a set of pens and pencils. To participate, viewers must like the video, subscribe to the channel, and comment with their country of residence.