These days, we can all be guilty of shiny object syndrome and getting caught up in the latest tech gadget. Living in an increasingly digital world makes it easy to forget about the simple pleasure of putting actual pen to paper.  But as paper lovers, which most of us are, we know how powerful it can be to carve out time to journal, reflect, capture ideas, brain dump tasks or set goals on paper.  There is just something about the crisp empty pages that evokes the feeling of ‘endless possibilities’.

For a long time, notebooks have been that perfect companion for free flowing ideas and thoughts. On the most basic level, notebooks are simply versatile and can be individualized by each person. It is that exact flexibility which helps unlock a mental freedom that can relax your mind, encourage your imagination and unleash your creativity.  As you embark on this journey, you may want to treat yourself to a new notebook or select one from the stash you have been hoarding (we see you).   Here are a few tips to get you started: 

Choose A Notebook That Inspires You: This may sound silly, but the touch and feel of the paper and how it feels in hand is a big part of you wanting to reach for a notebook on a daily basis. Also, selecting the appropriate notebook for each purpose is very important. For example, you may not choose the same notebook for brain dumping that you would for drawing or lettering. 

Clear Your Mind: One of the best ways to clear your mind is to do a brain dump, which is literally just writing every swirling thought you have in your head down on paper. This will lighten your mental load and allow you to have a clear mind. Dozens of people use notebooks for this simple purpose alone but you can take it one step further. Once your brain is ‘empty’,  grab a separate notebook dedicated to what you want to focus on and now let your brain wonder, explore and create. This can be a very powerful way to dive deeper and uncover more. 

Make It  A Habit: This almost seems counterproductive trying to take something that is supposed to be no pressure and making it a habit, but listen up. Our lives are very fast paced and many of us need to set aside time to embrace this new ‘habit’ of incorporating notebooks into our daily lives. It is less about checking it off on your habit tracker and more about being intentional with your time and being in the right frame of mind. Try early mornings, lunchtime breaks or before bed. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Experiment: Notebooks can be used for a myriad of purposes so don’t set any limitations or perfectionist standards. Try something like doodling, drawing, watercoloring or hand lettering. If that is too intimidating, create a swatch book (washi, ink or patterns) or memory book.  Let go, express yourself  and push your boundaries. Who knows what you will discover. 

Share With Others: Although you may feel that your notebooks are your personal space, which it true, you may find it very rewarding to get feedback or collaborate with others. Sharing ideas and commonalities is a great way to inspire, evolve and grow together. 

Now that we have covered all the powerful ways to embrace notebooks, here are few of our favorites to try.

National Notebook Day is the third Thursday every May which celebrates the notebook as a tool for capturing thoughts and creativity, with a history dating back to the 17th century. It was founded by Mica May, owner of May Designs in 2016.

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