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Keep a Daily Work Journal
Track Progress
Good habits make great web designers, and this week’s habit is all about keeping track of your work in a simple, effective way.
Habit of the week:
Keep a Daily Work Journal
Once upon a time, I used steno pads to jot down notes, track tasks, and document meetings. It was a system that kept me organized and gave me a record to look back on when questions arose. Today, Google Drive has replaced my steno pads, but the principle remains the same—writing down what matters so nothing is forgotten.
Why it matters:
A daily work journal isn’t about adding more work to your day; it’s about making your workload easier to manage. Tracking your tasks helps you stay organized, hold yourself accountable, and follow through on promises to clients. Plus, reviewing past entries can help you refine your workflow and avoid mistakes.
Quick Start Guide:
- Track Key Tasks: Each day, log the projects you worked on, maintenance completed, emails answered, calls made, new requests, and meeting notes.
- Follow Your Calendar: Match your journal entries to your schedule. If you blocked time for emails, log important ones you sent or received. If you had project work time, note what you accomplished.
- Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate it. A quick sentence or bullet points will do. If you're short on time, print your daily schedule and jot notes as needed.
- Record Promises: The most important thing to note is when you tell a client, “I’ll get that to you by…” so nothing slips through the cracks.
Cami's Tips
- Use a Template: Having a go-to structure makes daily journaling easy. Here’s my Monday work journal template to help you get started.
- Review and Adjust: Experiment with what works for you. I learned that same-day call scheduling didn’t fit my workflow, so I adjusted. Find what fits your style.
- Stick With It: The habit of tracking your work will make you feel more accomplished and prepared. The more consistent you are, the more useful it becomes.
- Schedule Breaks: Do it for your health! Step away from the computer more than once a day and take a full hour at lunch.
Routine Checkpoint:
What's Your Take?
Do you already keep a work journal? How do you track what you accomplish each day? Share your experience using #WebDesignerHabits!
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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 solopreneurs build smarter systems, stay productive, and run a business that works for them.