How to Capture Content Ideas the Moment They Strike

If you’ve ever had a brilliant idea and lost it five minutes later, you’re not alone.

Great content ideas rarely show up when you’re sitting in front of a screen. They strike when you’re on a walk, in the car, or mid-conversation. That’s why founders, creators, and GTM leaders need a simple system to capture content ideas in real time—before they disappear.

Here’s the content idea capture method I use every day—and how you can make it work for you.

Want to learn how to collect content ideas and turn them into a consistent content system? Schedule a Discovery Call and we’ll help you build a GTM content workflow.

Step One: Use a Pocket Notebook for Instant Capture

This is the foundation of the system. I always carry a pocket notebook—specifically, Field Notes. It fits in your jacket or back pocket and goes anywhere.

Why it works:

Captures content ideas without screens or distractions
Doesn’t rely on memory
Writing helps with retention and clarity
Flipping through later is quick and focused

Pro Tip: Stick to one idea per page. Label each with a topic or theme to make sorting easier later.

Step Two: Use Index Cards for Bigger Ideas

If you’re developing long-form content—a lead magnet, workshop, or book—switch to 3×5 index cards.

Inspired by writers like Ryan Holiday and Robert Greene, this method lets you:

Write one thought per card
Rearrange ideas into frameworks or sequences
Build modular content outlines by sorting and grouping
Create a tactile, flexible content idea system

This content creation workflow is ideal when you want to step back and see the bigger picture of your ideas.

Step Three: Use Your Smartphone (With Structure)

Your phone is with you all day—make it part of your content idea system, but use it with intention.

Apps like Notion, Apple Notes, and Evernote are all great. I prefer Notion because it syncs across devices and plugs directly into my spark file system.

Use your phone to:

Jot headlines or hooks
Save quotes or client phrases
Record voice notes while walking
Snap whiteboard photos or sticky notes

Quick Tip: Always include more context than you think you need. Add a sentence, the date, and a few keywords. It makes the note more useful when you revisit it later.