In this age of busyness and screens and endless productivity apps, less and less people are drawn to hand write to-do lists.

We might feel a sense of nostalgia for this act, but, with our phone always on hand, we can forget to pick up our diaries. We then miss out on the wonderful feeling of writing out (and ticking off) a to-do list!

By using our phones' to-do list apps, we miss out on not only this feeling, but on a number of surprising benefits! In this article, we’re going to talk about these benefits, as well as, of course, offering some cute to-do list product recommendations.

Featured: Moglea Colourblock Notepads

Why Should You Write To-Do Lists?

#1 Writing to-do lists by hand improves memory retention

Studies have shown that writing by hand, as opposed to typing, increases the likelihood that you will remember what you write. A written to-do list, therefore, is a great thing for those important tasks and plans! 

Take 10 minutes in the morning, with a cup of tea and some music playing, to write out your to-do list in a cute planner. This is not only an act of self-care, as you take time for yourself, but a great way to ensure success throughout the day!

#2 Writing to-do lists allows you to prioritise tasks 

It is often only when physically writing out tasks that we are forced to consider their order of priority. Writing your to-do list out in order of priority means that you can tackle the most important jobs when you have the most energy in the day.

"Priorities, my dears."

The best to-do list is one which allows you to feel confident about the day ahead...and there’s nothing like physically ticking off those more difficult tasks off! This is a great procrastination hack. 

#3 Hand-writing to do lists allows you to easily group tasks together

Another benefit of hand-writing to-do lists is that you can spot links between tasks more easily and group them together. 

You might choose, for example, to bunch together admin tasks for the afternoon when you know you get a little tired. Hand-writing encourages our minds to make these kind of links and, as a a result, improves our productivity and efficiency!

#4 The act of writing out a to-do list causes you to hold yourself accountable

Writing out a cute to-do list does more than just remind you of your plan for the day. The best to-do lists are promises to your future self!

Studies show that by writing out our plans and tasks, we are more likely to act on them and hold ourselves accountable. Use your to-do lists as reflections and reminders of your bigger goals and you’re more likely to stay on track. 

#5 Writing lists by hand can promote mindfulness

The time you spend on a written to-do list is time for slowness and calm. It’s a great passive activity that allows you to just focus on taking things step by step.

Start your day in a more relaxing way, away from the stress of your phone notifications.

Featured: Poi Co. 2-in-1 Weekly Planner & To-Do List

If you’re ready to write some cute to-do lists, check out our range of notebooks and journals. Our planners are perfect if you like a little more structure, but for arty to-do list writing, take a look at some of our beautiful notebooks or journals.

We’d also have to recommend the Moglea Coloublock To-Do List Pad! 

Browse our store to find your new best friend.

Written by Beth Longman