How do *you* use notes?

I tried not to think too hard about how to use notes, out of fear that I would over-analyze and over-complicate myself. What I came up with was something that I'd imagine wouldn't work for everyone: I just write whatever, whenever, wherever it's most appropriate. No rules, just making sure to make the notes. I don't even bother looking at them afterwards, though in theory, I could, and who knows what I'll eventually find most useful to review?

What I quickly realized is that my approach could actually benefit from hearing about how other people use their notes. And perhaps the details of my approach will help others too!

So, I'll go first.

I still don't use notes for much, actually, which I guess is why I'm looking for more reasons.

There are a few activities that just seem to demand explanation sometimes (like when it's in the middle of a workday... ahem!) Others--like the ones for which I have lofty goals--I use it for pep talk, getting my thoughts in order before I start. I like letting the backdrop of time be very present while I'm motivating myself to use it well.

The whole-day note I use to describe how I'm feeling: usually only when I'm not feeling so good... but I should change that and write when I feel great too! I also write about external effects on my day, like a friend stopping over unexpectedly, or a flood in the basement that got noticed at noon.

Anyone else got any neat uses for notes? Please share!