Plastic to Paper: Boosting Creativity, Focus & Engagement

I have moved away from screens and increased my creativity and focus exponentially by using notebooks and paper and I am never going back.

• Ideation: I have a designated notebook (Field Notes) to capture ideas and things that relate to my pursuits – travel, photography, music.

• Meetings: I leave my laptop and bring a notebook. I am more engaged both with the content and my colleagues.

• Schedule: I print out my weekly calendar. This reduces the need to check what’s next on screen.

The Creative Edge of Paper

One of the most compelling advantages of switching from plastic to paper lies in the innate qualities of paper that nurture creativity. Paper invites tactile interaction. When you handle paper, it engages senses that stimulate the brain, leading to enhanced focus. For artists and writers alike, the texture and weight of paper can inspire innovative ideas and spark creativity. It is a medium that supports a range of applications—from sketches to notes—and promotes deeper thinking and reflection.

Boosting Focus and Engagement

Engaging with paper as a medium not only enhances creativity but fosters a sense of connection and engagement not only in quiet moments but with my colleagues. I find leads to improved concentration levels, as the physicality of paper reduces the distractions that are prevalent in the digital environment. The nature of writing prompts the subconscious mind to analyze and reflect as the words reach the page and transforms our relationships with creativity and the world around us.