Recently, I planned my semester break in an analog way. Normally, I'm planning my time exclusively digitally, so this step was unusual and spontaneous for me.
However, breaking my workflow showed me the advantages of analog planning. Today, we tend to condemn analog work and label it as old-fashioned. In truth, though, this approach has three advantages.
Avoid Digital Media
The most obvious advantage is that you don't have to rely on technological devices and can reduce your screen time. Plus, analog to-do lists can be placed prominently on your desk or whiteboard.
It's good for me to get away from my devices and focus on my tasks and myself.
Keeping Track
With a whiteboard, a large drawing pad or similar, you have plenty of space to plan and be creative. While space is theoretically unlimited on digital devices, screen sizes are usually limiting. Even compared to my 16-inch laptop, I have a better overview on paper.
Paper is better for drawings, sketches and quick notes, especially if you don't have a tablet with a pen to draw digitally.
Better Handling Feeling
I enjoy the feeling of writing on paper. Sitting at my desk in the evening and writing an analog to-do list for the next day is meditative and contrasts with the stress of my everyday life.
Writing by hand forces me to focus my thoughts and finish them (because you can't easily remove what you've written). At the same time, the slower writing speed makes me calmer and more relaxed.
Conclusion
Of course, digital media has many advantages over analog planning tools. That's why I don't want to completely abandon calendars, reminder lists and other digital tools.
But especially for projects or limited periods of time – for example, planning the semester break – I would like to rely more on analog methods in order to be calmer and more level-headed as a result.