How to write weeknotes when you don’t have time
2 ways to make time + 2 ways to save time + 1 cheat method.
What happens when you feel positive about open working and want to write weeknotes, but can’t seem to find the time to do so? Here’s five solutions to help you.
Remember: writing weeknotes is a reflective practice. You’re doing it for yourself — to have a rest from doing, doing, doing and get some perspective on your work— as much as for everyone else. So weeknotes can, if you need it, be your excuse to take time out.
1. Timebox
Make ‘Writing weeknotes’ an appointment in your calendar. An appointment with yourself. Decide how long it will be — 20 or 30 minutes. This will create structure with your practice and remove the need to remember to make time. All you need then is the discipline to start on time and not go over — just like you would with a well-run meeting.
You can even use a timer if you like.
2. Write your weeknotes with me
Join a live weeknote writing session. I’m running these for DDC participants. 30 mins every Thursday at 3.30pm and Fridays at 4pm. Turn your camera and sound on or off as you wish. I’ll be writing my notes with you.
Get a calendar appointment for any Thursday or get one for Friday.
3. Use a template to go quicker
There’s 12 templates. 7 work really well for weeknotes. I’m also slowly sharing them in Medium posts.
4. Share something you already have
It could be a design asset or other output from your work. Share screenshots or a link. Then explain what it is.
5. Give the week to a team member
Hand your account to a team member, or ask them to write about their week in a document or email. Then submit what they write as a weeknote from them, using your account (just add an intro line at the top). Sharing weeknotes across a team gives others the chance to walk in your footsteps. Team culture benefits. And its not really cheating.
Reusing others’ work saves you time
Two offerings from Catalyst to help your project. Get inspired, save time, progress quicker.
- Service recipes — 70+ recipes showing you how to do digital things in charities and other non-profits
- 617 items shared openly by charities for others to reuse — search yourself, or ask me to help you find things that could help your work.
