In recent times, the introduction of smartphones has dramatically changed the way we do things, and scheduling is no exception. Not too long ago, almost everyone had a journal, a diary or an ordinary writing pad which was used to note down important information ranging from contact numbers to appointments with business partners.
From innovations such as Google calendars which can process your To Do List while doubling as a weekly planner; to digital planners which can now be connected to your mobile devices, the world seems to have left the paper planner in the past.
While some people keep a paper planner within arm’s length, some have abandoned paper planners for the “seemingly” stress-free online planners in a bid to keep our lives more organized. But the value in a paper planner is greater than just jotting down your to dos!
Let us delve deeper to understand why a paper planner remains a valuable tool even in our contemporary setting.
1. Writing improves information processing and understanding
Over the years, many studies and people have continued to confirm that writing enables better information processing and retention. The process of penning down information helps us prioritise the more important tasks and goals and promotes your mental organisation process, in mind and on paper.
2. Paper planners will help you focus
When you write on a paper planner, you can often come back to it for reference. This easy reference point greatly reduces the possibility of losing your focus on your everyday tasks at hand. With the use of online planners on your computer or smartphones, one minute, you check notification for an upcoming meeting, the next minute, you are scrolling away your time through your Instagram feed. It’s no wonder people report difficulty focusing on tasks.
3. Privacy!
This is arguably one of the most significant benefits of paper planners over online planners.
The issue of privacy is an underestimated one for most people, but it really should be taken into serious consideration. Your paper planner allows you to write your thoughts, appointments and plans on paper, which obviously is not connected to any network. Your smartphone, on the other hand, most definitely has internet access and requires you to accept privacy policies and terms and conditions that permits them to use your personal data for intrusive marketing purposes, and possibly sell your personal data to other marketing companies!
Then there is the issue of cyber-attacks which seems to be a growing trend these days. These days, most software companies request permissions to access virtually everything on your mobile device as a criterion before you can install the app. It is a concern that really should not be underestimated.
At the end, it all boils down to personal preferences. Perhaps, some people may opt for both paper planners and online planners, but then it all has to do with the needs of the individual in question 🙂
Have a great weekend!
“My first template used in Microsoft Word! Super simple, and easy to print at home. I can also use the trim marks to create other cards too!” – Robyn L