Yes, I know. The brain vs. the mind is a slippery matter (pun intended).
But, if our brain is our physical hardware, and our mind is our conceptual software, then it makes sense to support the hardware first, which in turn supports our software.
So, if we give the brain what it wants, and the brain gives the mind what it wants, we’ve got an evergreen reward cycle (just a theory, but I’m all in).
My brain loves writing.
I’ve always known that, but I never really understood the psychological benefits of constructing words in new and meaningful ways. It turns out, there are several cognitive benefits to writing.
Bottom line: everyone should write for brain health (and possibly make a few bucks doing it).
Take Notes
Pens — remember those — may be your neurological Rx.
Apparently, handwriting is better than typing due to the physical and visual connection required to actually form letters, rather than tap them out digitally. Studies and brain images show these complex pathways lead to better memory and creativity. Various brain regions have to communicate to complete each and every letter.
So, dexterity and mental agility may not be your only handwriting rewards, it also might be your stroke of genius.
Get a Brain Boost
I don’t journal regularly, but I may start.
Tech tools are like candy to me for daily writing. So, I’ll plan to keep a notepad handy and avoid the keyboard when I’m making notes. If my creativity surges, I’ll be more likely to stick with it.
Then on to journaling . . . maybe.
Doodles
The good news is doodling and sketching also provide impressive benefits for focus, stress, memory and ideas.
If you’re like me, and you don’t love handwriting, try hand-drawing a mind-map for your next post, article or novel. Maybe a rough visual of an infographic or logo. Or if you’re just plain stuck, doodling can break you free of writer’s block!
I’m liking the idea of “back-of-the-napkin” therapy.
Who knew all this mind-liberating magic could occur the moment our Pentel strokes paper? And maybe we’ll even see enough financial reward to keep on writing — to make more money — to keep on writing . . .