Are you swimming in a sea of sticky notes? They are everywhere: in the car, around the computer, on the desk, in the kitchen, and up the stairs!

Let's face it... sticky notes are a brilliant way for us to keep information right in front of our faces. The problem is that when there are 100's of them, they all become a blur. We put important information on small notes and then realize that we can't find it, or remember where we've filed it.The time it takes to retrace our steps and look through files to find the information again is a huge time waster.

It's time you took back control of your information and use a system that is much more reliable. In fact, it's so easy, you won't believe it.

Use a SPIRAL notebook. That's right. It can be any size (preferably at least 4 x 6).

* Put one next to your telephone for logging in any calls and recording voice mail messages and phone numbers. (At home, train all family members and babysitters to use the same spiral notebook.)

* Keep a notebook next to your computer to jot down web sites, key words, etc.

* When necessary, carry a notebook with you in the car to jot down thoughts, phone numbers, and ideas.

It is best to have only one or two notebooks. It must be a spiral notebook because it is important that the papers are bound. This keeps them from breaking loose. You can keep this book as a permanent log to refer back to. It can be as simple or detailed as you wish.

By creating a simple system with the notebook, you will be able to eliminate the 100's of pieces of paper and notes that you are buried in!

Sticky notes can be wonderful tools, but we must remember to use them sparingly. When we have completed the task on the note, remember to throw it away. This helps to eliminate out of date information that is no longer needed. The more you get into the habit of using a spiral notebook, the more organized, informed and professional you will be. Now that's a stress reliever!