Why Writing Things Down is so Important

The biggest myth we tell ourselves is: I’ll remember that! I’ll remember to grab that thing at the grocery store. I’ll be sure to do that thing my colleague asked me to do in last week’s meeting. There’s no chance I’ll forget to do that thing for my daughter.

Spoiler alert! You will forget.

Mental lists do not work. They don’t work for big dreams and they don’t work for small everyday tasks. Not only are mental lists inefficient, but they also add to the stress and clutter in your brain. You’ve got enough going on up there! No need to add to the clutter.

Magical things happen when you put pen to paper. Clarity comes from focusing on the present, rather than trying to keep track of your mental lists. Most importantly you no longer have to remember it all! It’s right there, written down.

I have a challenge for all of us going into a new week. Refuse to keep mental lists this week.

When you get overwhelmed, take out a piece of paper and write it all down – your to-dos, your thoughts, your worries. When you’re given an assignment or remember an item you want to grab at the store, write it down.

I write things down in my planner — this year I’m using the British Floral! I brain dump on this lined notepad and I often outline projects here. But, there’s no right or wrong way. You do what’s going to work for you, whether that’s a planner or a plain piece of paper. The point is to write things down.

You do so much. You take care of your family and yourself, your household, and your job. You’re doing all. the. things. But you can’t remember it all, all the time. Refuse to keep it all in your head and see how free you feel. I promise it will make a positive difference!

Are you a list-maker or note-taker? Share below!