How handwriting benefits communicators of every stripe
Using pen, pencil, chalk or marker to jot down your thoughts has merits beyond reducing computer-induced eye strain. It flexes your brain in essential ways.
Remember when we used to handwrite all sorts of things, such as cards, homework and essays?
The importance of handwriting wasn’t in question; it was a necessary means to an end.
In college my biggest struggle during finals was that my hand would cramp up from all the essay writing. I also remember that my lecture notes were the most popular to copy because they were so visually appealing, with graphics, block letters and bullet points.
I prided myself on the beauty of handwriting—foreshadowing my career in content marketing.
We wrote with a pen or pencil and didn’t think twice about it. Handwriting was a key component of how we communicated. Not anymore.
When was the last time you actually handwrote something—other than an address on an envelope or maybe a quick scribble?
Do we need handwriting?
Recently I was at the gym listening to Spotify, and an ad popped up for the Bic “Fight for Your Write” campaign.
I realized I hadn’t really thought about the lost art of handwriting, nor had I considered its importance beyond simple communication.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today
Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.