Write It Down!

Few will deny that digital applications dominate so many aspects of our personal and professional lives. Interestingly though, one tried and true method of planning and keeping track still shines through: the art of the written word.

Increasingly, studies have shown that when we write something down, we tend to remember it longer and more completely than when we use an electronic or digital device to record our thoughts and plans. It seems there is a link between the physical aspect of writing and the cognitive activation of memory.

While digital calendar options are plentiful and useful, keeping a companion planning diary/notebook can bring about meaningful improvement in what and how we keep up with multiple tasks, initiatives, plans, goals, and outcomes. Here’s an example.

Early in my career, I took a day-long productivity workshop. Among the many techniques and tools included was a goal card. We were instructed to write out our five-year career aspirations with as much detail as possible. We shared these with those sitting next to us, then were told to keep this card handy and to refer to it often as a reminder of our intentions.

While I did follow through on many of the techniques offered during the workshop, keeping the goal card handy was not one of them. It made its way to a desk draw where it found a comfortable home. Years later, when moving to a new location, the card suddenly re-appeared. I scanned it quickly, then was drawn in for a closer look. Every goal I had listed had come to pass, including a few that I had no way of knowing would be possible. Coincidence? Maybe. While I can’t prove “cause and effect,” I can prove correlation. Similar experiences have happened in a variety of ways.

Handwritten cards, notes, and letters (remember those?) are reported to be far more noticed, memorable, and appreciated than email and text message — creative emojis notwithstanding. So, remember: Write it down!

I help organizations gain alignment and deploy resources effectively. Contact me at joe@ajstrategy.com.