I used to be that person who couldn’t put their phone down. Morning, noon, night—didn’t matter. I’d grab it without even thinking, scrolling through social media like it was my job. But honestly, it was messing me up. I’d see something online that’d rile me up or make me feel like I wasn’t doing enough with my life. My creativity was taking a hit too, and as someone who loves writing and dreaming up new ideas, that stung. That’s when I stumbled onto something that changed everything for me: notebook habits.
It started with mornings. I’d wake up, reach for my phone, and next thing I knew, I was either annoyed or running late. So I decided to try something different—writing morning pages. I’d heard about it from a friend who swore by this book, The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. You just write three pages of whatever’s in your head, no rules, no filter. Sounds weird, right? I thought so too. But I grabbed a notebook and gave it a go. Some days, I’d scribble down worries or random nonsense. Other days, I’d surprise myself with a story idea or a solution to something I’d been stuck on.
What got me hooked was how it made me feel. I’m kind of an anxious mess sometimes, especially first thing in the morning. Writing those pages felt like unloading all that junk onto the paper. I could look at my thoughts and see them for what they were—usually just noise. It was freeing, like I’d given my brain a fresh start. And the creativity? Oh man, it’s wild how ideas just sneak in when you let your mind wander on paper. Half the stuff I’ve been working on lately started as a messy morning page.
Then there’s this other notebook I carry everywhere now. I call it my zibaldone, which is just a fancy way of saying it’s a spot for all the cool stuff I come across. Quotes from books, weird things I overhear, little thoughts that pop into my head—I write them down. It’s become my go-to when I’m tempted to scroll my phone. Instead of wasting time on random trivia online, I flip through this notebook and find something that sparks joy or makes me think. It’s like I’m building my own little treasure chest of inspiration.
Carrying it around has even changed how I dress. I’ve started wearing jackets with bigger pockets just so it’s always with me. It’s funny how attached I’ve gotten to it. But it keeps me present, you know? I notice more—the way the light hits the trees, a snippet of conversation on the bus. It’s way better than staring at a screen.
Speaking of screens, if you’re into cutting back on digital noise, you should check out Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport. It’s a gem of a book that’s all about living intentionally in this tech-crazy world. It fits right in with these notebook habits I’ve been leaning into. Gives you some solid ideas for keeping your focus where it matters.
Nights used to be another phone trap for me. I’d lie in bed, scrolling until my eyes hurt, and it’d wreck my sleep. Now, I’ve got this little journal by my bed—a storyworthy journal, inspired by this guy Matthew Dicks who wrote Storyworthy. Every night, I write down one moment from my day that stands out. Could be something tiny, like my cat curling up next to me, or something big, like a trip I took last summer. Takes me five minutes, tops, and it’s so calming.
What I love most about it is how it keeps my memories alive. I’ve got a terrible memory for the little stuff, and this journal catches those moments I’d otherwise lose. In a few years, I’ll flip through it and remember how I felt when my best friend cracked that dumb joke or when I finally nailed a recipe I’d been messing up. It’s like a gift to future me.
These notebook habits have honestly flipped a switch in my life. I’m not glued to my phone anymore, and it feels like I’ve taken back my time. My head’s clearer—less of that anxious buzz I used to carry around. And creatively? I’m on fire. Ideas come easier, and I’ve got a way to hold onto them. It’s not just about productivity either; it’s about feeling more like myself.
If you’re tired of the digital grind, I’d say give notebook habits a shot. You don’t have to go all in—just pick one. Maybe start with morning pages to shake off the day’s baggage or grab a little notebook for those random sparks of genius. I’ve sprinkled notebook habits into my routine, and trust me, it’s worth it. Pen, paper, and a little time—that’s all it takes to feel a whole lot better.
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