my datebook(s)

posted October 26, 2010 in About

If I could hold eleven years in my hand, it would look like this:

Tonight, as I crack the spine of my new Colgate Datebook, volume XII, I reminisce how these little calendar books have helped organize my life. Each year, I order a new one from the university bookstore. And each year, I can hold a new chapter of what’s yet to come in my hand.

Since 1999, a quick glance reveals what’s on tap for my day, the next week or month, without the need to fire up a laptop. Colgate University (my alma mater) provided me with a solid liberal arts education. The daily glimpse of the seal on my notebook reminds me of those fond years.

Thankfully, time management struggles crumble at the site of my datebook. Having one calendar on paper with me at most times, keeps my life together. Daily checklists made easy… all in one place.

“Let me look at my calendar.” Who says that any more? I do, especially before committing to an appointment. As a visual thinker, the ability to see Sunday-Saturday on page offers me clarity.

To glance back at 10 years of my life: first dates, wedding planning, birthday gatherings, client meetings, taekwondo tournaments… all documented in these little books. Each winter season I count the number of ski/telemark/snowboarding I enjoyed (record: 32 days in 2001-2003). Come tax season when I’m calculating my travel mileage, the calculation process takes me less than 30 minutes as I flip through my Dateboook, reminded about the fun engagement sessions, compelling conferences, and family vacations. Tax stress melts away. Take that, Microsoft Outlook!

I’ve considered digital calendars like Outlook, iCal and was even tempted by Things, Apple’s answer to task management. However, the process of writing it down forces me remember it. Batteries don’t die, operating systems don’t crash, and I can still read & plan my time after the flight attendant states, “Please turn off all portable electronic devices.” Refreshing.

I’ve never double booked meetings (unlike a friend who double-booked a wedding after relying on a fancy online reminder program which didn’t sync properly). And there’s been only a few times in the last decade I forgot about an important date.

My only downfall: if I loose it, there’s no backup. Luckily, it hasn’t happened, yet (knock on wood).

Thank you, Colgate Datebook, for making my life easier!

Here’s to Volume XII. May it be the best year yet!

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I dedicate this post to my Grandpa Quigley (Colgate class of ’48), who continues to inspire my entrepreneurial spirit. I attended his 50th college reunion back in 1998 and it was a hoot!