Why use journals, planners, and notebooks? Why not just use an app? Apps are simpler, cost effective, more eco-friendly, right?
Well, there is that.
Personally, I prefer a physical journal or planner. A tangible thing to hold. An actual pencil, pen or marker writing on actual paper. It works for me and how I create.
But why? Why spend more money? Why not go the simpler route? Why “waste” paper?
I’ve thought a lot about this. Maybe too much. Especially when I should have been doing something else, like working. I’ve gamely tried apps and sometimes I even plug events into my Google calendar (those notifications can be life savers). And I’ve come up with 4 reasons (excuses, justifications, what have you) why physical journals and planners work better for me and why I’ll continue to buy them.
Why I Prefer Journals Over Apps
- The feeling of writing on paper. Something about writing on paper is visceral. It’s satisfying. And it also helps me remember. It’s the act of writing down a to-do list in my planner that solidifies it in my mind. Often, I don’t need to refer back to the next item on the list; it’s all in my head. Training my brain, maybe? It sure could use the exercise!
In fact, studies have shown that writing something down versus typing it on a keyboard is more effective for learning and improves memory.
- It’s easier. Wait. What? Yes. For me, analog is easier than digital. I don’t have to pick up my phone, wait for Face ID to open my home screen, swipe to find the app, and navigate it to start planning my day. My planner is on my desk, within easy reach, and all I have to do is open it, go to the bookmarked page, and jump into my to-do list. It’s a great start to the day.
Of course, for this method to work, I have to know where my planner is and put it back in its place. But the same applies to my phone.
- It will never get lost. Again, this is predicated on the assumption that I’ll put my planner back in its place. But with a paper journal, I don’t have to worry about being hacked, my data being lost, or the blue screen of death – you know, when you turn your computer on and it doesn’t actually start. What I wrote in my journal or planner will always be there, barring natural disasters, spilled tea, or the very remote chance that it will be flushed down the toilet. (How did my planner get in the bathroom anyway? It’s supposed to live on my desk.)
- I love books. And paper. And pens. That’s the biggest reason why I’ll always choose a physical journal or planner over a digital app. And if I’m worried about “wasting” paper or the paper shortage and the cost to the environment — I try to do my part, and don’t see it as a waste if I’m being productive or creative — there are increasingly more eco-friendly and sustainable options to choose from. They’re cute, too.
So, good or bad or in between, those are my reasons (justifications, excuses, etc.) why I buy journals and planners versus downloading an app. What about you? Did any of this resonate? Why do you prefer paper planners and/or journals?
Comment below – we can all geek out over our mutual love of journals and planners and all bookish things!
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