The Power of the Pocket Notebook: Your Hybrid Work Ally

Digital tools are fantastic, no doubt, but there's something about the tangible feel of a pocket notebook that just hits differently. I’ve been carrying one for years and it’s become part of my daily routine. I’ve mentioned it a few times in previous posts but let’s explore a bit more about how it helps on a day-to-day basis.

Tangible Tangent

Now, why on earth would anyone in the 21st century resort to something as archaic as a pocket notebook? Well, in our hyper-connected world, we’re constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, and a myriad of digital distractions (even if you’ve turned most of them off…). While our trusty devices keep us in the loop, they often lead us down the rabbit hole of infinite scrolling and app-switching. With a paper notebook, you avoid all of that.

There’s also an undeniable satisfaction in the tactile experience of writing with a good pen or pencil on quality paper. The crisp sound of a pen scratching the surface, the smooth glide of a well-balanced pencil—these sensory elements add a whole new layer to the act of note-taking. It’s a breath of fresh air in a world dominated by pixels and screens.

Here's the kicker: the pocket notebook doesn’t replace your digital tools—it enhances them. It’s not about abandoning your smartphone or laptop but about finding the perfect balance. While our digital tools are undeniably powerful, there's an inherent simplicity and focus that comes with jotting down thoughts and tasks on paper. When my digital brain is overwhelmed, I turn to my pocket-sized saviour.

Instant Capture

Imagine this: a brilliant idea strikes when you're away from your desk, and your phone is buried in your bag. Fear not! Whip out your trusty pocket notebook and scribble it down. No fumbling, unlocking, no app-switching to OneNote—just a swift pen-to-paper motion. It is still very hard to beat.

Unplugged Creativity

When the digital noise becomes overwhelming, I retreat to my pocket notebook for a dose of ‘analogue’ creativity. Musing, doodling, mind mapping, and brainstorming on paper can sometimes help unlock ideas that might get lost in the digital shuffle. Pulling out your notebook essentially sends an immediate signal to your brain that it’s time to engage in a different mode, a more thoughtful, deliberate one.

Mini Task List

Sure, digital to-do lists are fantastic, but there’s something about physically crossing off completed tasks. The notebook can act as a visual roadmap, helping you identify priorities at a glance. For days with lots to do and little time, especially if you’re moving around a lot, it may be worth jotting down a list of tasks on a page. I sometimes do this if I have lots of unrelated tasks to do while working from home, such as household chores as well as small work items that need ticking off. It’s just much faster to scribble them all down on a page rather than add them to a digital task list.

Distraction-Free Meetings

Ever been in a meeting where everyone’s heads are buried in laptops? Break the cycle! A pocket notebook allows you to take notes without the temptation of social media, email, or other notifications. Your focus remains intact, and your ideas flow more naturally. You can even prepare for the meeting by writing down your key points on paper—that way, when you go into the meeting, you are all prepared without having to load up an app.

You can of course still combine this with taking in a laptop. Use the laptop to give your presentation, for instance, or load up large documents you need to refer to, while still having a notebook to remind you of the most important things you need to get across or to quickly note down something you don’t want to forget.

Daily Brain Dump

Start or end your day by jotting down everything on your mind, especially any concerns or worries. It’s like decluttering your mental space, providing clarity for the day or evening ahead.

Focused Reflection

Sometimes, as I wind down at the end of the week, I flip through my pocket notebook. It’s a tangible reminder of the week gone by, a chance to reflect without the glare of a screen. I can see any tasks, notes, or doodles side by side, helping me gather my thoughts and to remind myself of my achievements. It’s even more fun to gently flip back the pages even further and essentially go back in time, in a way that’s not really easy to do in an app.

Choosing Your Sidekick

Not all pocket notebooks are created equal. Find one that fits into your lifestyle. Whether it’s a sleek leather-bound book or one of those whimsical notepads, the key is to make it an extension of yourself. I’ve been using a Rite in the Rain waterproof notebook for years, and I probably go through about one a year.

Pen or Pencil: Finding Your Write Fit

Choosing the right writing instrument is also crucial for a good pocket notebook experience. I invested in a Yard-o-Led ‘Silver Cross’ pen years ago and I pretty much always have it with me. All I need to do is change the refill once a year or so and I’m good.