While most people now use their smartphones to plan their purchases, some remain faithful to pen and paper. Behind this habit lies much more than a practical preference. It reflects a unique way of approaching life, choices, and priorities. Psychology is interested in this and highlights the personality of those who stick to this ritual.
1. A Taste for Simplicity
Paper devotees favor efficiency and clarity. There’s no need for an app with multiple features to organize daily life: a pencil is enough to structure their thoughts. This pursuit of simplicity often translates into an ability to stay focused on what matters. These people don’t get distracted by trends and prefer solutions that are straightforward yet reliable.
2. A Sharp Memory
The act of writing stimulates the brain and promotes information retention. It’s no coincidence that handwritten note-taking is still recommended for learning today. By writing their shopping lists on paper, these individuals strengthen their memory. The simple act of writing each word anchors information more solidly, reducing forgotten items once at the supermarket.
3. A Mindful Approach
Writing your list by hand can become a moment of concentration. This self-awareness, similar to a mindfulness exercise, provides calm and reduces stress. Being attentive to the act of writing and word choice reflects a broader personality that enjoys living in the moment with a concern for mental balance, according to this study.
4. A Tactile Connection to the World
The pleasure of paper, the sensation of a pen gliding across the page, the satisfaction of crossing off a purchased item: all these micro-sensory experiences enrich daily life. These people often belong to so-called “tactile” profiles, who learn and retain better through physical contact and concrete experience.
5. An Affection for Tradition
Continuing to write lists as one’s parents or grandparents did expresses an attachment to reassuring rituals. These familiar gestures create a sense of continuity in a constantly changing world. The paper list then becomes more than a tool: it embodies an emotional and symbolic link to the past.
6. Independence from Digital
In an ultra-connected society, choosing paper shows an ability to detach from screens. It’s also a way of not depending entirely on technology, which can sometimes fail us at the worst moment. This habit illustrates a desire for balance between digital convenience and the effectiveness of a timeless method.
7. An Ecological Awareness
Contrary to popular belief, digital isn’t always greener. Servers, apps, and smartphones consume enormous amounts of energy. Reusing an already-printed sheet or opting for a recyclable notebook can prove more environmentally friendly. Paper writing then becomes a thoughtful choice, guided by a certain ecological ethic inherent to one’s personality.
This article first appeared on psychologies.com – Author: Isabelle Thibaud
