Here’s a good habit I’ve taken up when leaving the house that has saved me more than once. When I pick up my purse for departure, I count to 4:

1. wallet
2. phone
3. PDA
4. biz card case

and check for a pen because I should never be caught without one.

I don’t count for keys because I need those to lock the door behind me.

If you always leave all these items in your bag/purse, it may not be a problem. For me, these items often jump out of the purse and go AWOL to play hide-n-seek when I least expect it. Sometimes I’ll count to three then find the phone on its charger. Sometimes I find the PDA deep in a pocket of my laptop bag. Sometimes I find my wallet on the floor of the car under the front seat.

This simple system also helps me keep my purse clean and clutter free. Count to 4, not 8 or 12.