WHAT: I use a single-purpose notebook dedicated to a specific complex problem I'm working on.
HOW: I select a small, portable notebook (like Field Notes) and a reliable, non-bleeding pen (such as a Micro 0.5mm ballpoint). I carry these with me everywhere I go. Whenever a thought related to my chosen problem pops into my mind — whether I'm commuting, in a meeting, or relaxing at home — I immediately jot it down in this notebook.
I also schedule regular "thinking excursions" where I take my notebook to a quiet place like a coffee shop and spend 20 minutes focused solely on the problem at hand. During these sessions, I review previous notes and brainstorm new ideas.
To maximize the effectiveness of this method, I make sure to:
- Use the notebook exclusively for this one problem
- Write down every relevant thought, no matter how small
- Review the notebook regularly to connect ideas
- Carry the notebook everywhere to capture insights in different environments and mind states
WHY: This Time Capsule Notebook method allows me to harness a much greater portion of my brain power than traditional problem-solving approaches. By having a dedicated space to capture thoughts as they occur, I tap into various mind states and moments of inspiration throughout my day. This continuous collection of ideas from different contexts and moods provides a richer pool of insights than scheduled brainstorming sessions alone.
The notebook acts as an external memory, ensuring that no potentially valuable thought is lost. Over time, patterns and solutions emerge from this accumulated wisdom. This approach accelerates my problem-solving process by collecting a diverse range of perspectives and allowing for unexpected connections.
Ultimately, this method helps me make sense of complex issues in my personal or professional life more effectively than traditional methods, leading to more innovative and comprehensive solutions.