Terrible, isn't it? To think use of good ole pen to paper to write down your thoughts and ideas, things to do and follow-ups may actually work better than use of a computer software programme!

Some of my clients have had to use software in conjunction with their diary, which can easily be done when they are shown how.

I often find that some of most 'high tech' people are most disorganised, particularly if technology breaks down.

At least with pen and paper, only thing that lets you down is when pen runs out of ink. If your organisation is adamant that you must use electronic system so that other people know when you are available, then use it for that purpose. However if it isn't helping you get organised effectively, consider utilising a paper diary as well so that you can stay in control.

Don't be afraid to get back to basics if you find it all becomes too much.

Your Work Book In our busy working lives today, we are bombarded with so many different distractions that it is sometimes difficult to keep track of everything that's going on, particularly if you work in an open-plan office.

Instead of recording on scraps of paper or sticky notes all zillion thoughts that pass through your mind during these stressful periods, use an inexpensive spiral note book. Anything of importance that you write down can then be found again at a later date. Use it as an adjunct, or a companion, to your diary and as a great memory jogger.

You'll find using a Work Book will help you focus your thoughts, remind yourself of past conversations and save time as you'll no longer have to search for all those "back of envelope" notations.

Taming Telephone Murphy's Law of Telephones and Deadlines means that when you are really pressed trying to complete a project on time, telephone will take off, with a mind of its own. The pro-active person will rejig their answering message to say something like this: "Hi, it's Joe Bloggs. I'm unavailable right now however if you leave a message stating what your call is about, and best time to phone you back, I'll get in touch later in day."

On other hand, if you have someone working with you who can screen your calls (lucky you) word them up to give a similar message. Asking what call is about will help you assemble any relevant information before you call back. This will enable you to better plan your day, to return all calls sooner and more effectively.

The Final Word Keep your time management systems simple because simpler they are more likely you will use them. Doing basics will help you work smarter, not harder.