We live in the age of the digital jungle. A world that is fuelled by machines, software, and an entire system that relies on apps to help it survive. It’s sort of a throwback to that Will Smith movie where all the robots turn on humanity; funnily enough called I, Robot.
In the midst of it all there are the rebels who insist on sticking to that analogue life. Why? That’s the incredulous question asked by every Gen Z (or whichever generation is currently popular). Why go analogue when you have the chance to stay digital?
Let’s talk about that why, and the many benefits of putting pen to paper as you move though this life.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Stream of Consciousness
The idea of stream of consciousness writing in the world of journaling is about laying out your thoughts without a filter. It’s essentially long form journaling that requires no pause, no reflection, you may not even read the words at a later date. It is simply a space for you to pour everything out and lighten your mind. The act of allowing pen to touch paper and simply flow gives little room for pause, while clicking away on a key board is never quite as smooth.
Device Free Time
Choosing to stick to analogue planning, or journaling, encourages one to turn away from the devices which follow us everywhere we go. Suddenly, ten minutes, maybe a half hour, or even an hour passes by without touching a screen and it allows our brains a much needed reprieve.
Retention
It is scientifically proven that the act of putting pen to paper and taking notes, or making plans, leads to a greater retention of information. You are much more likely to remember the information that you have written down by hand than the information which you have typed out on your computer or smartphone.
Caveman Carving
The notion that writing things down imprints them on your mind with greater permanence stems from the idea of generations before carving their stories on walls. Essentially our brain is recognising what we have “carved” on to the paper. That up and down motion of writing, and the letter formation helps us build stronger retention and also encourages the development of fine motor skills.
Memory Keeping
Sure you can file away a great amount of information on your computer, your portable devices, your iCloud, but the concept of be able to relive your memories through touch. Turning page after page, reenacting aspects of your life that worked to make you who you are today; its a deeply satisfying experience. It talks to the sensory needs of humans, and our desire to relate touch with memory and emotion.
Nostalgia
Last, but certainly not least, who can forget the nostalgia of putting pen to paper. Reminders of school days in the midst of the chaos of adulthood. Throwbacks to university life and hand writing exams; although possibly not the most positive memory referral. Essentially putting pen to paper allows you to relive the lives of generations past, and they seemed to have a better idea than us of how to live a more wholesome existence.
Notebooks from My Type Store
There’s no need to delete all the apps and throw out all the devices. From a practical standpoint that is simply impossible. We live in an age of information and technology and we have thrived with it; no one is denying that.
This writer is simply saying sometimes writing these thoughts out by hand has an all together different experience to offer than simply going click, click, click on the keyboard.
Are you a paper planner? Do you put pen to paper? Or are you a digital creator when it comes to thoughts and plans? Possibly a balance of both? Would love to chat in the comments.
Looking for new notebooks? Head on over to my YouTube channel where I share an unboxing and review of My Type Store’s minimal viable notebook series.
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