You could choose the traditional pen-and-paper method: Options here include sticky notes, a small notepad, an agenda, a journal, a diary, or a spiral-bound notebook. Alternatively, you could choose a technological method: You can try the Sticky Notes program on Windows, a notepad app on your smartphone, a reminder app on your smartphone, or your preferred online calendar, such as Google Calendar or iCal.
When you need a particular note to help you remember something, you will likely have no idea where it is if you use sticky notes, a calendar, a journal, and an app on your smartphone, as an example. There is no way to organize your notes to yourself when you use many different systems. You might have the urge to write something down when it is inconvenient to do so using the system you normally use for that type of thought (e. g. you always write recipe ideas down in your journal, but you get an idea when you are not at home). Your reminders and notes are simply more likely to get lost when lots of systems are involved. That may not always mean physically lost; it could also mean mentally lost (i. e. forgotten).
When the urge strikes to write down a note to yourself, you have the tool you need to do so handy. Your notes will stay organized all in one place if you always have that tool with you.
Writing it down immediately ensures you will not lose that thought. If you chose an option like sticky notes, be sure that you keep the sticky note in a safe place until you can put it wherever you choose to safely store them, if you are not near that place. You do not necessarily need to use complete sentences when writing a note, as long as you are confident that you will know what you meant when you come back to look at it later.
If you keep notes to yourself on your smartphone or computer, they will always be there. However, if you choose to use a word processing program for writing notes to yourself, remember to save the documents. You might want to keep all of your notes to yourself in something like a journal or diary. Always have that with you or know where it is so that you can access it when you need it. Keeping your notes on or near your desk is usually a pretty good idea, as that is one place you likely spend much of your day. Sticky notes work really well for some people, but they get messy quick. They also lose their stickiness eventually, causing them to fall from wherever you stuck them and potentially get lost. Keep this in mind if you use sticky notes!
Using a technological tool for leaving notes likely will not work when trying to leave a note for someone else, so it is best to choose a pen-and-paper method. Always have something ready for writing notes, like a small notepad, sticky notes, or some scrap paper.
Keep it short and simple. It does not necessarily have to be written in complete sentences, but make sure the recipient will understand what it means. Avoid getting off-topic, especially if it is a reminder note. The recipient may get confused about what you are asking him/her to do if you get off-topic. Adding a time and/or date to the note will help if it is time-sensitive. This will help the recipient understand when you left the note and how much time he/she has remaining to take care of the task.
On the refrigerator or freezer door On the kitchen counter On the dining table On the bathroom counter In his/her lunchbox On his/her desk On the seat of his/her car
If he/she follows up with you first, then there is no need to ask about it again, unless you asked him/her to complete some sort of task that you want to ensure got completed. Be polite and friendly without being pushy. Asking, “Did you see my note this morning? I hope I left it in a convenient place for you” or “Do you have any questions about my note?” are some examples.
Because it is a card for a sympathy note, it should be somewhat professional and serious in appearance. Humorous cards are not appropriate here. Your card can be small or large; your note will only be a couple of sentences, so make sure it is at least big enough to fit those. You might want a blank card to write your own note. However, you can buy a card with a message printed in it and add to it with your own note, too.
Dear _______, Hello ________, Hi ________,
1/1/2015 01/01/15 January 1, 2015 1 January 2015
“I am sorry for your loss. I send my condolences to you and your family in this difficult time. ” “I want you to know that I am thinking about you while you work through this challenging time. Please let me know what I can do to help you. ” “I know that this was unexpected, and I am here for you however you need me. ” “You might not feel like it right now, but you are strong, and you will get through this. ” “You are not alone. You have many relatives and friends who are ready to support you and help you get through this. ”
Love, ________ With love, ________ Your friend, ________ Sincerely, ________ Warmly, ________
Feel free to make your card bright and exciting, as you are celebrating something with this note. Your message, or the message printed on the card you buy, might be humorous, serious, or uplifting. It is your choice.
Dear _______, Hi ________, Hey ________, You might also simply write the recipient’s name followed by a comma.
1/1/2015 01/01/15 January 1, 2015 1 January 2015
“Happy birthday! I hope you have a fantastic day filled with happiness and love. ” “Congratulations on the promotion! You will do an excellent job in your new role. ” “Congrats on graduating! All of your hard work has paid off. Welcome to the real world!” “You should be so proud! Buying your first home is a major accomplishment. I can’t wait to visit!” “Congratulations on your little bundle of joy! I hope baby and parents are doing well, and I’m looking forward to meeting him/her!”
Love, ________ With love, ________ Your friend, ________ Sincerely, ________ Best wishes, ________
