Whenever we explain what we sell on Mr Paper, we often get responses such as "Oh, I do everything on my computer, its so much faster and easier", but who said anything about wanting everything to be fast and easy?
Quite often we think about digital tools as being a means to being more efficient, getting more done, or having the flexibility to easily manipulate and change what we write. We're never really locked into anything, we never have to fully commit what we write, we almost never think about what we're writing.
There is plenty of information around about the unique benefits of writing by hand versus typing digitally. I like writing by hand. I don't have particularly nice handwriting or know how to draw. Writing to me is a creative process when I am not that creative. It's putting ink to paper and creating something. It could be anything, and the best part is that its all made by you. Not AI, not a computer, its all you.
We've done some looking and realised that its not just us who love stationery and scribbling things on paper. There are cognitive, emotional, and sensory advantages of using pen and paper, which contrasts with the convenience and efficiency of digital tools.
There are cognitive benefits (Good for your brain)
Research shows that handwriting improves memory retention and helps individuals process information more deeply. By slowing down and engaging the brain more fully, handwritten journaling enhances focus and promotes self-reflection, helping people explore their emotions and ideas more meaningfully. This is often cited as especially beneficial for emotional wellness, as the act of forming letters by hand engages more of the brain than typing does.
Therapeutic Value (Good for your heart)
Journaling on paper has been found to facilitate emotional processing and release. Unlike digital journaling, the tangible nature of a paper journal helps individuals feel more grounded and allows for creative expression through sketches, doodles, or changes in handwriting style. These personalised elements add emotional depth, making journaling feel more intimate and expressive .
Digital Distractions vs. Analog Focus (Good for focus)
One common argument is that digital journaling, while convenient, often comes with distractions like notifications. In contrast, a paper journal can serve as a “digital detox” that minimises interruptions, allowing users to be fully present during the process. This undivided attention can lead to more profound self-reflection and creativity .
Mindfulness and the Sensory Experience (Good for the soul)
Writing by hand offers a sensory richness—from the feel of a pen gliding on paper to the sound of the pages turning—that digital devices can’t replicate. This sensory engagement contributes to mindfulness and provides a break from screen-based activities, helping individuals disconnect and relax.
So, while the debate between digital and analog journaling continues, the trend we see suggests a growing appreciation for the mental and emotional benefits that come with putting pen to paper.
If you agree, why not grab yourself or a friend the gift of a nice journal or pen to start you on your own journey? or challenge yourself to 7 days our journaling to see the benefits yourself.
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