Today is National Handwriting Day, one of those arbitrary holidays created to focus attention on an issue. The date was selected because it is John Hancock’s birthday — in honor of the first and most prominent signature on the Declaration of Independence.
I have always been a big fan of handwriting, whether that be letters, meeting notes, lists, or journals. I agree with the neurologists who believe that writing by hand remains the most powerful way to learn and retain information. It combines the tactile act of physically crafting the letters with the visual aspect of seeing them on the page. The engagement of motor, cognitive, and emotional functions helps (me at least) with the thinking process and recall. It’s in part why writing on Post-it notes works as reminders.
This “holiday” was established in 1977 by the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association to promote the use of pens, pencils, and paper. In addition to being an occasion to be more deliberate about the words we write, it also allows our personality to come through more fully. I have saved letters and recipes from my mom, and just seeing her handwriting allows me to feel closer to her.
Create your own mini-celebration of National Handwriting Day by putting pen to paper today. Write a thank you or note of appreciation to someone. Take notes by hand in your next meeting. Draft a proposal on a legal pad instead of a computer. Write your list on paper instead of using an app.
The power of the pen comes from merely using it, not just from the words you write.
Thanks, Meg!
