This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com on behalf of the Paper + Packaging Board. #AD
This working parent advocate is no stranger to unplugging. I’ve shared countless tips and tools to help you exit the matrix that is the Digital Lifestyle throughout the years on my blog. As much as we are tuned in to the world around us with apps and phones and tablets and gadgets, it is important to tune out on a regular basis in order to be refilled in a natural, peaceful way. I enjoy things that allow me to still do my job without the use of technology, and paper is a huge part of that.
You may be asking “who uses paper anymore?” as it seems that everything these days is on a screen and typed or keyed in. There are huge benefits to utilizing paper because it allows you to be efficient and on-the-ball without all of the bells and whistles. You can get work done without being interrupted by notifications or text messages, which can help keep you on task and focused.
Need a few ways that using paper helps me be productive, and get the job done? Look no further!
Writing it down
I get extreme pleasure from writing things down. Still. There is something therapeutic about having a pen in hand and a pad to write down ideas, thoughts, plans, goals, etc. The practice of writing things down helps me retain and remember information more effectively, and gives me screen-free time to be able to concentrate on my thoughts. I focus better and tend to attack my goals better when I write them down in a planner or goal-sheet.
When it comes to my ideas like book and blog topics, pen and paper is best for me. People always ask me how I am able to write so many printed books and eBooks as well as maintain my various blogs and websites and it is because I write things down–screen free. It helps me organize my thoughts which make for working efficiently on projects.
Makes building relationships more fulfilling
Call me old fashioned, but I also send letters and notes of thanks and gratitude to friends, family, and colleagues. While everyone’s email inbox is inundated with everything under the sun, an actual physical letter or card in the mail is a welcomed treat.
People remember the small things like receiving a handwritten note or correspondence, and it can make you stand out in a crowd. When it comes to running my enterprise, my personalized notes give me an advantage, and help me communicate effectively and memorably.
Freedom from “the noise”
Just think of how effective you can be professionally and personally when you free yourself from the noise of the Internet. Using paper gives me the freedom to do just that, since I’m not being tethered to the stream of Facebook, Twitter, group texts, etc. With this added time, I can really go hardcore with my to-do list, making me a true “boss”.
Take just one hour daily to be offline and totally plugged in to your dreams and purpose. This will do wonders for you in just about every facet of your life.
Turning the page
To help me prepare for bed, I do two things. The first thing I do is to recap my day in my journal and the second thing I do is grab a book. Yes, an actual physical book and not one on my device. Experts have noted that limiting screen time two hours before bed can help you get more rest and sleep better at night. Reading is a great way to relax, and turning those pages are important because it helps your mind focus, concentrate, and power down without the use of technology.
My 14 year-old sees my cues, so she too, reads actual physical books as well. I like that I can give her an example to follow. You can visit 15 Pages a Day to take the pledge to read more physical books—make sure to get the whole family involved.
No power needed
How many times have you wanted to jot down a note on your phone’s notepad or in an app like Evernote and you’re low on power? Or you have a weak signal and there’s no wifi available, but you have an idea that needs to be memorialized for posterity? Paper gives you the ability to jot down anything without relying on battery life or a signal.
I do this quite often, and there’s no need to worry that my information will be lost or not saved because of a technical issue. The less reliant I am on technology, the better because life still goes on.
In closing, I’d like to say that I love technology. But it should enhance the way we live, not take it over. With proper digital balance, we can all have the best of both worlds.
Visit 15 Pages a Day to learn more about how paper can help inspire you to live your best life.
These are great ideas. I do need to use paper more, I feel like I don’t get as much done when I am on my computer or phone. BTW how’s the book? Should I buy it?
Yes, lets make paper great again! In terms of the book, I think it helps to break down some mistruths we’ve heard so long in the workforce. I am still reading it but I can definitely recommend it.
I still use paper, writing letters and things. I’m an analog girl in a digital world.
Same!!!
I’m just like you. I keep a paper calendar AND add reminders on my phone. I’d be lost without both. I also remind our son to send thank you cards.
In fact, we need to get Mother’s Day cards for his aunts and grandmas.
Amen! I am going to go out this weekend and pick up my Mother’s Day cards 🙂
Great tips. I tend to spend less time on the computer these days, too. I want that goals list pad. <3