Maybe the ancient Egyptians were on to something when they began etching out those hieroglyphs. There’s a certain power to the act of putting thoughts down on paper (or stone tablet, if you’ve got the shoulder strength to lug that around in your handbag). It’s even been shown by science: processing information, summarizing it in your mind, and then capturing it by writing it down is a great way to strengthen recall. It’s also a good way to cut back on our exposure to some of the blue light that our devices give off, which can be harmful to our eyes and our sleep.
That’s just one of the many reasons a growing number of people are putting down their smartphones, silencing all those irritating app alerts, and rediscovering the ease and effectiveness of classic paper day planners. Whether or not you already consider yourself a “paper-planner person,” you may find yourself pining for those crisp, real pages if you keep reading.
Find Your Paper Personality
Do you tend to look at the month as a whole, or are you more of a by-the-week person? Perhaps you prefer to take things one day at a time, or organize yourself more around projects, lists, and doodles. With a paper planner, you choose the structure and size that works best for you. And don’t forget to keep your favorite pens handy. We’re suckers for a rainbow of smooth-flowing gel pens, but a sophisticated, personalized pen has grown-up goals written all over it.
Some may find a blank journal useful as a planner—one with a gorgeous cover is always an instant mood lifter, too. These can even be used for bullet journaling, the much buzzed-about method of setting goals, keeping track of tasks, and more. There are some fun kits available to get you started, and you can read more about this highly-personalized take on planning here.
Write to the Occasion
For a lot of major life events, the preparation and anticipation are just as important (and exciting) as the big day itself. A wedding planner guides you step-by-step through searching for venues, organizing a honeymoon, and everything in between—with space to add all your own notes and important appointments. You can even order a personalized planner that features your name and wedding date on the cover.
If you’re an expectant mother, a pregnancy journal is a fun way to track weekly milestones, anticipate upcoming doctor visits, and write about all the unique experiences of this time. Some books include places to store ultrasound pics and other mementos, too. After the baby is born, it’s a keepsake you’ll be so glad to have (once you catch up on your sleep!).
Plus Up Your #Plannerlife
There’s something so poised and refined about making notes in a day planner—especially when you’re at a meeting where everyone else is manically tapping on their phones. It just keeps you more attuned to the present moment. Email can wait until you get back to your desk, right?
Your new planner may even inspire you to make a few more upgrades. For starters, try a luxe leather bag in a color that makes you smile or a chic pen that doubles as a tiny massager to soothe those worry muscles in your temples. Or go for a cheeky, sculptural desk accessory. A beautiful vase (definitely pronounce it “vahhhhz”) is always a feast for the eyes, even more so if placed on an ultrachic writing desk. Reward yourself with fresh-cut flowers every time you turn the page to the next month!