One of the goals that I hope will help alleviate the cacophony of continuous thoughts that flood my mind and keep me awake at night is to keep a journal. On hand. Close by. Easily accessible. Every writer, no matter what genre, should have a journal. At least one -- many writers, including myself, have multiple journals. Whatever works best for you. Either way, have a book that requires pencil and paper to jot down thoughts.
I added the "four times a week" to make the goal specific and measurable. Now this writing can take place in any of your journals, but is good to have a one journal that you will use specifically for your writing ideas.
Journal with Pen and Paper!
It is perfectly fine to jot down ideas into a Word document or to utilize some other electronic means. However, having a journal that is easily accessible is important as well. There may be times you are literally sitting in traffic or in line at the grocery store and a random idea will pop into your head. It is not always convenient or possible to have your laptop or iPhone with you, so the old-fashioned pen or pencil and paper is also a good thing to have on hand. As a writer, I think it is good to take the time to write thoughts that flow freely with the tip of a pen. Handwriting is quickly becoming a lost art.
However you tackle this goal, the important part is that you have a blank slate you can empty the creative vessel when the thoughts are ricocheting off your mind. It has helped me and I hope it will help others out there as well!
