Happy New Year 2024, people! š
Since September 2022 (the day I got my tablet), my life has been essentially paperless. What does that mean? Well, that means that I am very much mindful of my current usage of paper, for instance, I no longer print documents, I take full advantage of Cloud Storage, and I do not remember the last time I even bought a physical book (ever since I bought the Kindle back in July 2021), and I have not bought another journal even since I completed the last one back in May 2023. But, there is one habit where I still use the analogue medium. And that is when it comes to planning on my bullet journal.
Just a disclaimer: my bullet journal is not artistic. I use a notebook, a black pen and a gray highlighter (to differentiate the personal and professional tasks and notes). So, no, you do not need to have an artistic flair to adopt this medium. The original method is very minimalistic and simple.
So, the question remainsā¦ Why havenāt I made the switch yet? Well, hereās why:
š Tactile Experience
The tactile experience is something no one can deny. It is something that seems very insignificant but plays a major role in our lives. For instance, the feel of pen and paper offers quite a change from the usual digital tools that we use. Something about writing down your tasks and events encourages mindfulness. It helps us be clear about what we want and if thatās important enough for us to write down as a task.
š Time of the Day
At night, using a bullet journal instead of a digital time management app can help in a few ways. The act of physically writing in a bullet journal can be more calming and relaxing compared to staring at a screen before bed. It allows for a more gentle transition into a peaceful state before sleep. Also, the lack of screen time reduces exposure to blue light, which can interfere with the bodyās natural sleep-wake cycle. By using a bullet journal, you can engage in a screen-free activity that promotes better sleep hygiene and improves your overall restfulness at night.
Overall, using a bullet journal is more therapeutic to me since I spend a large chunk of my time in front of screens, be it during work or while practising my hobbies. Getting some time away from screens while planning my next day has been soothing in my case.
šµ Reducing Screentime
As stated in the previous point, using a bullet journal helps reduce screen time by providing an offline alternative for planning and organisation. Instead of relying on digital time management apps or tools, which require screen engagement, a bullet journal allows for a screen-free activity. By using pen and paper to plan and organise tasks, events, and goals, individuals can disconnect from screens and focus on the physical act of writing. This not only reduces exposure to blue light but also promotes a break from the constant stimulation of digital devices. By incorporating a bullet journal into my routine, I can create dedicated time away from screens, leading to a healthier balance between online and offline activities.
š§ Enhanced Focus and Mindfulness
This is something I have noticed over the years. The act of physically writing down tasks, events, and goals in a bullet journal requires more attention and concentration compared to typing on a digital device. This intentional process helps to declutter the mind and promotes a deeper level of focus on the task at hand.
The structure and layout of a bullet journal, with its emphasis on rapid logging and simplified note-taking, encourages a more mindful approach to planning and organisation. By using symbols and concise bullet points, it becomes easier to prioritize tasks and identify what truly matters. This promotes a sense of mindfulness as you are more aware of your priorities and can make intentional choices about how to allocate your time and energy.
Reflecting and reviewing your bullet journal allows for self-reflection and mindfulness. By periodically evaluating your progress, identifying areas for improvement, and celebrating achievements, you cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and mindfulness in your daily life.
šļø Minimalism and Offline Planning
Bullet journaling aligns well with the principles of minimalism and offline planning. By using a bullet journal, I can simplify my planning and organisation process, focusing on the essential tasks and goals. The minimalist approach of bullet journaling allows me to declutter my mind and eliminate unnecessary distractions.
Final Take
I need to address this - my love for bullet journaling fuels my motivation to continue using it as my planning method. This is a personal choice and may not resonate with you. And thatās okay! For me, the combination of the aforementioned points contributes to my continued dedication to bullet journaling. It has become a cherished practice that brings me joy and helps me stay organised and mindful in my daily life.
I wish you all the best for 2024 - see you next Sunday! ā¤ļø
Do you use a bullet journal or a digital planner? What are your reasons for choosing one over the other? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Anwesha RC 