Use a Voice Recorder to Jump-Start Your Organizing Efforts

Have you ever noticed that you usually have your best ideas when you are busy doing something else? You might be driving to work, riding your exercise bike, or watching television. Unfortunately, by the time you're ready to act on the idea, you've already forgotten it. Or, you take the time to write the idea down in a notebook or on a post-it note, creating more paper clutter in your life. Besides being yet another cause of clutter, written notes can be easily lost, and they can be time-consuming to write and keep organized. Instead of using paper to keep track of what you need to do, a small voice recorder just might be the best investment you'll ever make.

The Many Advantages of a Voice Recorder
As compared to paper, there are many advantages to using a voice recorder. You can take it with you anywhere, since these devices are usually quite small and easy to carry. Many people get in the habit of always keeping one on a lanyard around their neck or in their pocket, so that they can dictate short notes and reminders to themselves wherever they go. You don't have to worry about the need to always have a pad and paper with you, and there are no pieces of paper to lose. You can also record a quick note to yourself in situations where using a pencil and paper would be dangerous, such as when walking or driving a car. If you have a lengthy commute each day to work, looking for a voice-activated recorder that you could just leave on during your drive would be a safe way of recording ideas and reminders that occur to you while driving. Voice recorders are erasable and re-recordable, so they are also quite economical. Some digital voice recorders even offer the option of being able to copy your recordings as sound files onto your computer, so that you can listen to them whenever needed or even e-mail them to somebody else.

Choosing a Voice Recorder
There are many different voice recorders on the market, so you will need to find one that offers all the features you need, without paying for other features that are not necessary. If you don't feel you have the need to copy the recorded messages onto your computer, you might be satisfied with an inexpensive voice recorder that uses small tapes. However, many people find that a digital voice recorder can be much more convenient to use, especially since they are often smaller and easier to carry. If you do want to be able to copy your voice files to your computer, be sure to choose a recorder that is compatible with your computer's operating system. There are also programs that you can buy that can automatically translate a sound file into a text file. This can be a great timesaver as compared to transcribing the recording yourself. Whichever recorder you choose, make a habit of keeping it with you at all times. You'll probably be amazed at how much more organized and efficient you will be.

Article Source: http://www.wahm-articles.com

Jessica Ackerman, author and staff designer at WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, specializes in contemporary metal artwork and trees wall hangings.

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