Why is documenting ideas, thoughts, and results important? If you don’t know or aren’t sure, here are 10 reasons why writing brings out the best in you.
It starts with crayons
Pen and paper are my lifelong companions. I cannot remember a time when both did not accompany me in some way, whether writing short stories in elementary school, placing entries in a diary during my high school years, or outlining the table of contents for books that were ultimately published.
This love affair with writing is true for many people, and perhaps you’re part of the movement but haven’t recognized how this documentation is vitally important in your life. There is more to writing than grocery lists and figuring out what to clean on the weekend, right?
Too much information
One year my daughter and I were on a flight to Las Vegas. I was speaking at a tea convention and knew my daughter would have a good time exploring the sights while I prepared and delivered my presentation.
Neither of us realized that our flight coincided with spring break. The plane was overrun with college students, and the atmosphere was rowdy from point A to point B.
In the row directly in front of us sat three females. A guy had recently parted ties with the female sitting at the window seat. During the flight she positioned herself towards her row buddies by placing her knees in the seat and began reading aloud a letter she composed to the guy. Her head was just above the seat so her written serenade was audible to us, her captive audience.
“She gave me a headache,” said my daughter when we landed hours later.
My hope is that the jilted student didn’t send the lovelorn letter to her ex, but her choice wasn’t my decision or my business. She expressed her feelings in a way that was freeing for her. That’s what matters, and that’s why writing is meaningful in each of our lives.
There are many reasons why pen, pencil, paper, and other writing instruments are your friend. Here’s a handful.
10 reasons why writing brings out the best in you
1. Clears your head
You cannot keep everything you need to know or want to remember top of mind. In business, we call this “clearing the decks.”
2. Organizes your life
As mentioned earlier, lists are necessary, especially when you’re a woman. We are in charge of a lot.
3. Expresses your current feelings
Whether physically elated or mentally anguished, it can be quite healthy to let your emotions run wild between the lines.
4. Lets you compare change and growth
Keeping a diary or something similar about daily life allows you to go back and read your past state of mind.
5. Focuses your energy positively
Many times you are your best cheerleader. Writing to confirm your inner strength can be very powerful.
6. Decreases forgetfulness
Ideas come and go quickly. If you don’t write down (or type on your computer or smartphone) that brilliant thought, it may disappear forever.
7. Authenticates goodness
Use paper, the size of a square Post-It note, to write happy things that occur daily and place it in a jar to re-read when a stressful day occurs.
8. Reminds you about triumphs
For whatever reason, bad thoughts rise to the top. Stop them from floating on the surface by making number seven above a habit.
9. Documents the state of “you”
Keeping a journal is wise at every age and any stage of life. It’s personal therapy to enjoy in your space.
10. Helps you dream big dreams
I have a notebook with the words “World Domination” embossed on the front. My big dreams are in it. As an example, if you dream of writing a book, this article will help you develop that big dream.
Enjoy the writing journey
You no doubt notice that adult coloring books are popular. It’s another option that either complements or is a substitute for writing.
When did you recognize that pen and paper were your companions, or did this article help you discover how these tools bring comfort and joy?
I started writing when I was 13 or 14 years old. I kept a journal (because guys didn’t write diaries lol) but I also wrote poetry and, oddly enough, plays (or scripts, since they were Star Trek related). I guess 40 years is a long time to be writing but I’ve enjoyed it and, as you say, it can help clear the mind as well as help people focus.
Hi Mitch,
If you still have access to your journal, it’s fascinating to open it and read what you where thinking and writing then compared to where you are today.
The subject matter certainly changes, but still, I find what I wrote back then entertaining at this stage in my life. What seemed heartbreaking then is a cakewalk today!