Lately I’ve been a victim to my own thoughts. As a lifelong learner, I find it challenging to idle when I could be doing something “productive”. Ideas are always coming and going for things I want to do or try: a programming language I’d like to learn, a hobby I’d like to revive, a skill I want to get better at. A pursuit is often forthcoming (and I wouldn’t have it any other way). As much as I’d like to act on all of these ideas, the reality is life often takes priority (as it should). My desire to pursue coupled with a lack of time to do so manifests as a rehearsal loop, where ideas run in my head on repeat lest they slip away.
To combat this, I’ve started keeping a pocket notebook and pen on me at all times. As the name implies, it’s small enough to keep in my pocket. I’ve been carrying it for the better part of a year, and it’s become a comfort (much like the feeling of my phone in my pocket). When it’s not there, something feels off.
I’ve historically been terrible at writing in notebooks, as I worry that I’ll “ruin” it with poor hand writing or incomplete thoughts. My first entry attempted to address this blocker, where I wrote that there are no rules for what can be written down. The notebook is a tool, nothing more. I jot down lists, thoughts, memories, things I want to recall later, and things I want to remember today.
My notebook also allows for freedom from my phone. Instead of reflexively reaching for my phone, I often choose my notebook instead. I might write something down, or I might choose to leaf through past entries. What was on my mind yesterday? Last week? Have my feelings changed since then? Working through my thoughts on paper has proven to be a valuable tool. I feel a sense of calm when I’m in my notes. I may even pull out neither phone nor notebook, choosing instead to stare into the distance and enjoy my thoughts unaided.
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy using a pocket notebook as much as I do. I’ve since acquired several other notebooks which I write in regularly. A quiet morning with coffee in one hand and a pen in the other has become one of my favourite pastimes.