The War of Effectiveness: Productivity Apps VS Paper
For almost five years now, I have been using Notion as my go-to all-in-one organizer for both my school and work life, including content creation. However, my dependence on technology has led me to scroll for hours on end. When you’re with your laptop, it’s just one click away to open your browser and type “YouTube.” The same goes for your phone. If you’re disciplined enough not to click, then congratulations to you. But if you’re like me and struggle with managing your screen time, then it’s better to continue reading.
Let’s start with,
Productivity Apps
The main reason why most of us prefer to use software over paper:
- First, it’s cost-effective. Even if you don’t pay for their plans, you can still use their product for free. It also saves paper and ink, which has positive environmental impacts and reduces costs.
- Second, it’s automated. Many productivity apps are powered by AI, making tasks much easier compared to a regular notebook. They allow for faster and easier document editing, such as deleting, finding and replacing, formatting, cutting and pasting, and reorganizing information.
- Third, it’s searchable. Productivity apps make documents searchable by using commands like Ctrl+F. Users can quickly find the information they need by using keywords or filters.
- Fourth, the internet is just one click away. This allows users to access external sources of information, such as the internet, online tutorials, or databases, which can enhance their learning and understanding.
- Fifth, it stores your documents in the cloud or storage. Productivity apps reduce the risk of losing or damaging documents, as they can be stored digitally and backed up in cloud services or external devices.
However, despite the listed benefits, productivity apps also have various disadvantages. They can be distracting for users, diverting their attention to activities like checking email, social media, online games, or unrelated websites instead of focusing on their tasks. Additionally, software relies on electricity, batteries, internet connection, or compatible devices, which may not always be accessible or reliable. Moreover, there are security and privacy concerns associated with software usage, as documents can be hacked, stolen, corrupted, or infected by viruses or malware. Lastly, the use of software can affect the quality of note-taking and learning, as users may be more inclined to simply transcribe information rather than actively engage with it.
Next, let’s talk about,
Paper
Despite the numerous uses of productivity tools, some people prefer using paper to reduce screen time and focus on their tasks. They write to-do lists on their mini-notebooks instead of using a productivity software that might potentially distract them along the way.
In our digital age, it’s true that technology can replace what paper can do. However, there are still people who are switching from their phones to pocket notebooks.
I might know the reason why this is the case, and it is to:
Limit Screen Time
Everyone wants to do that, and I know you do too.
But there’s something that’s holding you back: your dependence.
When I saw these kinds of videos, I was thinking about work calls, messages, and all the other “what abouts” that come to mind.
Here’s the thing before you blow your mind. People treat these little notebooks as phones, bringing them everywhere they go and sometimes not even taking their phones with them. It’s a place to write down thoughts instead of wasting time on social media, which, I’ll repeat, is a total time waster, unless you’re watching someone like Ali Abdaal or Cajun Koi, then that’s probably acceptable.
The use of a pocket notebook allows individuals to disconnect from the distractions of technology and focus on their tasks at hand. It provides a tangible and tactile experience that can enhance creativity and productivity. By carrying the notebook everywhere, individuals can capture their thoughts and ideas as they come, without the need for a phone or computer. It serves as a dedicated space for writing and organizing tasks, helping to limit screen time and increase efficiency.
For those who want to reduce their screen time and increase productivity, the use of a pocket notebook has gained popularity. In a world filled with constant technological distractions, having a physical notebook can provide a much-needed break from the digital world. By using a pocket notebook, individuals can disconnect from their phones and computers and focus on their tasks at hand. This tangible and tactile experience can enhance creativity and productivity, as it allows for a more immersive and focused writing experience. Additionally, carrying the notebook everywhere ensures that thoughts and ideas can be captured in the moment, without the need for a phone or computer. This helps to limit screen time and encourages individuals to be present in the moment.
To quote Austin Schrock:
“My notepad never goes dead, never distracts me, and above all, it has absolutely no agenda. If I ignore it, it doesn’t even try to get my attention.”
Ultimately, the decision is yours. Both productivity apps and paper can be useful, and they don’t necessarily have to override each other. With balance, you can spend your time on what you really want.
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