From grade school through high school I was always given something called a “planner.” This little bound calendar was the key to my organization all through school but what happens when you’re no longer in school? No one gave me a planner when I entered my first year of college or later for my first job out of college. This is why I had to take it upon myself and go get a notebook.

Now notebook shopping is not as easy as it may sound. Some of us do fine with blank white pages and some of us need lines. For me, I”ve  found out that I need one with a  calendar  so I know what I’m doing each day in case I lose my Blackberry (knock on wood I havent’t yet, but you never know!)

Below I have listed some of the most popular and visually stunning notebooks.

1. Moleskin was created as a brand in 1997, bringing back to life the legendary notebook used by artists and thinkers over the past two centuries: among them Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, and Bruce Chatwin. ( Moleskin Diary )

2. You can’t beat the beauty of a classic black and white marbled composition book!  (eschool crossing)

3. Rhodia notebooks are made in France and are a favorite among architects, designers, professionals, scientists and others who like fun and functional notebooks! (The Paperie)

4. Field Notes Notebooks. Any notebook company whose slogan is, “I’m not writing it down to remember it later, I’m writing it down to remember it now”  is good to go for me! (Style Villain)

In conclusion, having a notebook to write down appointments and work assignments is great but it’s also great to use during the day to write down those creative ideas or inspirations that you could likely forget as the day goes on.

P.S. Another great use for  notebook is to keep it next to your bed for those nights when  that you can’t fall asleep due to all the thoughts and ideas being thrown around in your head. When that occurs, just  grab your notebook and write everything down.  Tthat way you can clear your mind and fall asleep in peace!