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Why Tracking Your Work Makes a Difference
Staying organized is a habit that pays off in every part of a web design business. This week, I focused on keeping a daily work journal, and it reminded me just how valuable it is to write things down. It’s not just about staying on track—it’s about feeling confident and accomplished at the end of each day.
What Worked Well
Keeping a journal is second nature to me. I started the habit years ago while working retail, where we were expected to take notes in steno pads. I use Google Drive instead, but the idea is the same: write it down so nothing gets lost. Logging meetings, tasks, and small wins significantly affect how I manage my week.
Challenges: Staying Consistent in the Afternoon
Mornings are easy—I’m focused and clear-headed. But after lunch? That’s where the challenge begins. My notes get shorter and less detailed as the day goes on. I’m finding a rhythm that helps me stay consistent through the afternoon.
A Surprising Benefit: Feeling Accomplished
Reviewing my journal at the end of the day gives me a boost. Even when I feel like I haven’t done much, reading through what I completed makes me feel like I’ve made progress. It proves I’m moving forward, even when things feel slow.
Tools & Resources That Helped
- Google Sheets & Docs – I use a daily template that matches my time blocks and save templates for a month in advance.
- Work Journal Template – Want to try it? Here’s my Monday template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ncliJ42FhY3H3hF7r49s1qAWBDmBMG42Q7fO9_r_zXU/edit?usp=sharing
Lessons Learned
Journaling allows me to stay on top of everything—tasks, commitments, and unexpected changes. It helps me track progress, remember client requests, and refine my workflow simultaneously.
Moving Forward
To improve, I might try rewarding myself for consistent afternoon journaling—maybe lunch out or time with a friend. It’s a small change that might help me stick with the habit all day.
How You Can Implement This Habit
Start small: commit to journaling only on Mondays for a few weeks. When that feels natural, add Tuesdays. Keep building until it becomes part of your daily rhythm. Keep it simple—a sentence or a few bullet points per time block is enough to make a difference.
about the author
Cami MacNamara is a web designer and owner of WebCami LLC, a Seattle-based agency since 2002. She created Web Designer Habits to help web designers build smarter systems, stay productive, and run a business that works for them.