I did this for 800 days and it changed my life

Peter McKinnon

Peter McKinnon

12 min, 3 sec

The speaker shares the continued benefits of using a notebook for organizing thoughts and ideas two years after a previous video on the subject.

Summary

  • The speaker likens their mind to a fireworks show and credits writing in a notebook with taming their thoughts.
  • Using a notebook for various purposes has become a life-changing habit for both the speaker and others who resonated with the idea.
  • The speaker and their friend Zach discuss the practical and sentimental reasons for preferring analog note-taking over digital methods.
  • Squarespace is mentioned as an alternative for those who prefer digital platforms to share thoughts or run an online business.
  • The speaker emphasizes the value of analog processes and how they enrich life by allowing for reflection on personal growth and ideas.

Chapter 1

Introduction to Notebook Benefits

0:00 - 1 min, 8 sec

The speaker introduces the concept of using a notebook to manage their thoughts and reflects on the benefits experienced over two years.

The speaker introduces the concept of using a notebook to manage their thoughts and reflects on the benefits experienced over two years.

  • The speaker describes their mind as a fireworks show, capturing the chaos of their thoughts.
  • They advocate for writing things down as a method to organize and control their thoughts.
  • Reflecting on the past video, the speaker notes the positive impact that keeping a notebook has had on their life and others.

Chapter 2

Continued Use and Benefits of Notebooks

1:07 - 45 sec

The speaker details their current use of a notebook and its ongoing positive impact on their life.

The speaker details their current use of a notebook and its ongoing positive impact on their life.

  • The speaker still uses their notebook for idea generation, to-do lists, and sketching.
  • They share a story about their friend Mike, who is skilled at sketching and demonstrates another use for a notebook.

Chapter 3

Zach's Notebook Habits and Preferences

1:52 - 2 min, 23 sec

Zach, a friend of the speaker, shares his long-term practice of carrying a pocket notebook and his reasons for preferring analog over digital.

Zach, a friend of the speaker, shares his long-term practice of carrying a pocket notebook and his reasons for preferring analog over digital.

  • Zach has maintained the habit of carrying a pocket notebook for 13 years.
  • He discusses his transition from Moleskine notebooks to Field Notes due to the convenience and size.
  • Zach also uses his notebook for practical purposes like jotting down ideas, measurements, and personal reflections.

Chapter 4

The Value of Analog and Ownership of Content

4:15 - 4 min, 2 sec

The speaker argues for the importance of owning one's content and the unique value of analog methods like note-taking.

The speaker argues for the importance of owning one's content and the unique value of analog methods like note-taking.

  • The speaker expresses concern over the digital ownership of our online identities by corporations.
  • They share a personal story about finding an old family journal, highlighting the lasting value of physical records.
  • The speaker believes that analog methods allow for reflection and understanding of personal development over time.

Chapter 5

Conclusion and Encouragement to Try Note-Taking

8:16 - 3 min, 41 sec

The speaker concludes by encouraging others to try using a notebook beyond 30 days to see its benefits in organizing thoughts and reaching goals.

The speaker concludes by encouraging others to try using a notebook beyond 30 days to see its benefits in organizing thoughts and reaching goals.

  • The speaker reflects on the realization that writing in a notebook has continued to help them focus and progress creatively.
  • They encourage viewers to commit to using a notebook to see if it can help them be more productive and achieve their goals.