How I (actually) Use My Pocket Notebook

[@AustinSchrock]

Want a deeper look 👉 Newsletter! substack.com/@austinschrock Related content 👉 skl.sh/3g26hfA

[@juleslincredule]

Key points: - The pocket notebook can be used in three main ways: capture, distill, and close. 📓 - Capture: Filter and selectively capture information we want to keep, avoiding distractions and unwanted information. 📸 - Distill: Chisel away at confusing thoughts or questions to uncover the essence and solve problems. ✍💡 - Close: Write down persistent thoughts or tasks to close the thought loop and free up mental space. 🚫🔄 - Using a notebook allows for undistracted and expressive writing, providing a focused space for processing information. 🖊📝 - Writing down tasks in a list format helps offload them from the mind, reducing stress and improving memory. 🗒✔ - Keeping a running list in the back of the notebook helps to organize and prioritize tasks for later completion. 📋🔀 - The notebook serves as a reliable external system to hold information, preventing mental overload and random thoughts. 💭🧠 - While phones are versatile, they can trigger additional tasks and distract from the original purpose, creating an edgy feeling. 📱🔗 - Writing by hand has been found to have greater benefits for closing thought loops and managing stress compared to typing on a phone. ✍🖐

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the summary!

[@funkymonkey8777]

Thanks 🙏🏻 ❤

[@maryocecilyo3372]

Obrigado!

[@hoplite015]

I'm actually taking notes from your comment into my pocket book in the event I need a homing beacon to ground me or remind me of the purpose. Splendid summary!

[@oryeonok]

thanks for the summary. I m certanly use my notebooks in something like this :D

[@TracySmith-xy9tq]

In 2009, I wrote a novel length fan fiction story that took me over a year to complete. I also had a job delivering pizzas at this time. I kept a notebook in my car, where I would jot down bits of dialogue that would occur to me while working. I wrote quite a bit of the story in between pizza deliveries

[@Vencenzo_cassano]

Can I read that story please?

[@arigo1015]

What's the story? Where can I read it?

[@leegeissbuhler3034]

Yeah would love to take a look :)

[@AustinSchrock]

I’m sure we all would!

[@Mad_ADVENTURESFORLIFE]

If you look up her name on the tag you’ll find it.

[@tricky-vixen]

I really appreciate the point you made about opening up your phone to do something only to be immediately distracted by a bunch of other things. I literally had that same thought when I started carrying around my pocket notebook.

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad to hear you resonated with that as well

[@WhatsWrongWithTheStreet]

That resonated so well with me. Numerous times I've gone to my phone to do something specific and get derailed before I can get to it. More often than not I forget what I was wanting to do. It is like hurdles to clear before getting to the main task. I'm glad you made that point because we all face it.

[@heygabimara]

As an analog user, I'm really happy to stumble upon your videos about using a pocket journal. I'm glad that you're encouraging people to use notebooks because it's just really fun to own one 🧡

[@sniitzel]

I love the fact that I watched your past notebook videos and was fascinated by them. Then I thought to myself I'd love to see how you use your notebook and BOOM, there it is!

[@nt2024april]

Among millions notebooks in world, yours is most cute.

[@AustinSchrock]

and the cheapest :)

[@Tiger-kq5rm]

no foreal, i just wanted one like that and bought it on amazon😂with a cute little pen 😇

[@lisareed5669]

Walmart.

[@MagicMan-il1xs]

​@@Tiger-kq5rm:)))) that's cool

[@Pudding_zip]

I think I need to get myself one too 😂

[@THE_M0SQUlT0]

I really appreciate the yellow “loading bar” for the ad, it made me feel like I didn’t need to skip the ad and I actually listened to what you were saying durning the part. So thank you for adding that!

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the feedback, I'll try to keep that on the next ones

[@alexblue6991]

My age 71yr old retired now looking back on my old notebooks today making me smile how stressful my life was working long hours and bringing up my daughters I just bought more notebooks for myself and going to give one each to my daughters as one a nurse and the other works in HR I'm hope it will be helpful for them

[@akira_ariga]

The jumbled thoughts is definitely something I deal with every time I try to do anything, and I easily feel overwhelmed. Writing down everything and being able to physically see my thoughts definitely help me to actually plan stuff and gets things done faster.

[@AustinSchrock]

Same tho

[@GuillermoCaetano]

I started obssessing about videos on using handwrighting and notebooks and yours is one that made me think a lot about my own personal process. I like how you talk about your process almost as "the way it works for you", and not how it will work for everyone, this can be a simple detail and i can interpret the same fact in other videos about the topic if they don't mention it, but your honesty does it for me, man. Loved this video!

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the feedback, glad it was helpful

[@carolyngurney5376]

I love your videos and the little notebook. I’m left handed so I use mine back-to-front. I lose focus and get easily distracted on my phone so the notebook is perfect. Also, since I am 70+ years old, it fits my comfort zone. Thanks for explaining so well how and why it works.

[@AustinSchrock]

You're welcome, thanks for commenting

[@thed3adgirlwalking]

I tried that. I am a leftie too, but writing back to front doesn't help because we still write left to right. How did it help you? I am curious.

[@SteveSwannJr]

I am a pastor. This is how I prepare sermons. Completely in my notebook with pens and pencils. Helps me clarify thoughts.

[@AustinSchrock]

That's really interesting, thanks for sharing

[@frankknoop8264]

I, too, am a pastor - and I totally agree. I capture thoughts that come to me in my pocket notebook as I'm out and about. If I don't capture a particular thought as it comes to me, I soon lose that thought with the myriad of other things on my mind.

[@mudbrick6083]

Same. I also use a super private notebook for what @austinschrock calls “close”. I write all of my pastoral visits and tasks in a log book so I can stop thinking about interesting/weird/hurtful things. It saved my mental health, because I was thinking about the Sunday sermon, multiple Bible study preps, evangelism contacts, and every interaction with parishioners all the time, even when home with the family. But once I started keeping a logbook, the notebook could remember it for me, and the “loop” could finally close in my head/heart/spirit.

[@andrewetos]

I started this about a month ago and I can see rapid improvement. Thanks for the info Austin 👍🏼 Btw here’s some lists that can help some of you potentially (all those I keep in my notepad): 1. Daily - to do - essentials (things that have to be done no matter what, such as walking your dog or working on your assignment for tomorrow) 2. Daily Elites (things that aren’t 100% essential like the above, but will make you feel good if you do them, such as working out for 1 hour or reading 20 pages of a book you like etc.) 3. Longer term goals & habits (things you want to achieve by a certain point or habits you want to develop such as learning a new language or having a consistent sleeping schedule for example). I tend to break those down into my daily to do list so I can implement small steps towards those goals throughout my day. Don’t worry if you don’t follow the list you have exactly at the end of the day though, just try your best. 4. General shopping / wish list (anything you want to buy from cheap to expensive for example the top 3 I have right now are a new office desk, a sterling guitar and a specific pair of sunglasses I’ve had my eyes on for a while) 5. General notes - mentality (always make sure to put the date at the top and just write what’s troubling you or just whatever is on your mind - this video is a great example) 6. (This is quite optional) Bucket list. Basically a list of things you want to do for fun or in general at some point, such as scuba diving or traveling to a certain place…could be anything, I even have listed some rare foods I want to try. Other than that you can have any kind of lists you want, like grocery lists, other kinds of lists and whatever works for you. If you’re starting this now Just start small and work up ur way up because if you set massive goals in your daily lists for example, it can feel overwhelming. Congratulations you made it to the bottom of the comment! - have some cake 🍰

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the information, I found it very interesting and may use some of your ideas

[@graaack11]

I just got my first notebook today and this is actually quite helpful it’s given me allot of ideas thank you!

[@Kavaitsu]

Aw that closing note (no pun intended) feels special, thank you! 😊

[@celiagallegos]

This was extremely helpful! Thank you!

[@frankknoop8264]

These kind of comments are so refreshing (and helpful). Thanks to you all.

[@bartjoboy]

I have a notebook and pen with me basically at all times like you. Just logging all kinds of tasks, ideas, random thoughts throughout the day. It really helped me understand myself better too, discovering all kinds of behavioral patterns. So, maybe another thing is, not just write stuff down but also try to reflect on anything you write if you want to make changes in your life.

[@setsbyjei]

I got really inspired by this idea that I went straight to a dollar store and got one for myself. In it, the first thing I jotted down was my why for using it. It helps me bring reason as to why I should continue finding value in analog activity. Following that, I just note lil thoughts that pop up, lists of to-dos, and new words. I hope in a month or so, I try expanding things to write about and create a lil time capsule for my future self.

[@AustinSchrock]

glad to hear it!

[@Josephanewyearmynewadventure]

Austin , I really enjoyed this video. I love to write in my pocket note book . I do it on a regular basis . I travel a lot on trains and buses and I love the looks I get when people see me writing in a pocket note book. I really enjoy writing and it's so peaceful for me when I'm traveling . I noticed a big difference in my life when I write in a book. I really enjoy journaling as well. I have a lot of journals and I go back and read them on a regular basis . I write in five different journals at a time on a regular basis. I have one for art therapy and just journaling , just a therapy session journal , one for up coming goals for the week and for the month and things I worked on like art projects. One for my routines and were I love to volunteer and stuff like that . I just want to say I really enjoyed this video. You did a fantastic job.

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the feedback

[@funnymanclayman]

just got 3 of them for $1.50 yesterday, and it's kinda fun just writing random stuff in there! Magic decks I'm working on, why I am resenting school, random thoughts that I think are midly funny, everything! Makes me want to write a book.

[@AustinSchrock]

Awesome!

[@JotaPalma]

This makes me miss having a pocket notebook. I'm currently using an A4 bullet journal and I hate the size, but I feel bad for wasting 2/3rds of a notebook, so I'm toughing it out and occupying as much space as possible, so I can get a pocket notebook again soon! Love your videos!

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@noneyourb172]

Why not put the rest of the A4 notebook to some other use like as a dedicated journal, grocery lists, drawing? Then get a pocket notebook. Don't torture yourself over paper.

[@yvonneadamski7406]

Get a small notebook for when you are away from home and then you can rip the pages out when you get home and stick them in your large journal.

[@FelixFelicis3267]

Sitting here on the edge of 2023 going on 2024 and I'm hoping for the best. I'm planning on getting a little notebook myself, and I hope I can use it well since I feel like I always have lots of little thoughts that stick to my brain like sticky notes. To the point that at times I cant think clearly 😅 I just wanted to say thank you for creating such useful and high quality content. Your genuine advice is truly wonderful, it feels like talking to a friend rather than a stranger through a screen, and makes breaking into tough topics like bad habits and flaws much easier. Watching your videos has helped me reconnect with myself and feel more hopeful than I have been in a while, reminding me that I do have the ability to choose and change and I can do it for myself that's enough. Wishing you all the best Austin, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@AustinSchrock]

Thank you for this kind comment! It’s wonderful to hear, I hope 2024 is a great year for you and the ones you love

[@ramimahmoud385]

You have convinced me to buy one tomorrow. I might need to note to keep the do-to list and shopping list on the back of notebook because I might forget it. I'm already started on journaling, and now you've given my notebook another function.

[@AustinSchrock]

Awesome! Glad to hear it

[@JGDD7190]

I started keeping a notebook by my bedside as a kid. I'd wake up at night and remember something I needed to do, then I couldn't go back to sleep because I was stuck in a thought loop trying to remember until morning. Once I started writing it down I could easily fall asleep again

[@EmilynWood]

I have a little notebook from Korea that someone gave me and I've been filling it up with my favorite passages of Bible scripture so I can reread them like a devotional.

[@AustinSchrock]

That's great!

[@staceyaustin6905]

I have a pocket notebook I don’t use, but you inspired me to carry it with me to write gratitude and other thoughts. Great video!!

[@codysandusky2130]

After watching your first pocket notebook video, I picked up a three-pack of notebooks and started implementing it at work everyday. Taking notes or doucmenting tasks while out of my office has been immensely improved by doing so via hand-written notes compared to adding them to the potential pit that is my OneNote; avoiding an opportunity to get distracted on my phone on the capture or review stages is also a great benefit. I am needing to next implement this in my daily life more outside of work, so that's the next step - thanks for making this video, I think the concepts here paired with a second brain (which I am still wanting/needing to create after seeing your video on that) will help me move to using the notebook as a part of EDC outside of the office. Thank you, Austin!

[@AustinSchrock]

Your welcome! Glad to hear it

[@JayCosta]

Great content Austin! As a notion user, I am trying to start using a pocket notebook to start capturing my thoughts and ideas. Like you, I get distracted using my phone for this. Subscribed for 2024!

[@bigironbois]

This has honestly been a great addition to my everyday. Just saw this video recently and I have been making entries many times a day. :D

[@cardonbluh2313]

Thank you so much for this video, journaling/keeping a journal is something that I've been trying to do for years without really understanding how to do it (it sounds dumb, i thought so too), I love that you provided examples of ways that you use your notebook (i wrote these down in my notebook while watching) and I now feel like I have a better understanding of things to use my notebook and journaling for.

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad to hear it! I almost removed that section, but now I'm glad I didn't :)

[@KeeganWatz]

I carry a mini rite in the rain notebook. One of my favorite things ever. All the metric to standard conversion tables. Mini ruler. It's great.

[@Suprement]

Hi Austin! No doubt there is a real problem in society of trouble concentrating on the things that really matter! Let's fight it together!

[@lossinsauce]

A fantastic sequel Austin! Gonna def try "closing" more often since I tend to have things cycle in my mind before it I eventually just forget it.

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks! Sounds like a plan

[@ladyterror4663]

I went out and bought two packs of those today on my lunch break. I was worried they wouldn’t have any (they had a bunch) and immediately started writing in it. Very cute and convenient, I have fond memories of begging my mom to buy the bigger version of these composition notebooks by the box full so I could write my stories in them.

[@AustinSchrock]

That's awesome!

[@Matthewwithers33]

My random thought I wrote down once actually became a business plan over time and now I’m looking at how I could start it as a business plan 8:53 I’m glad you pointed out that writing it helps solidify it in your mind

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the feedback

[@raymonddrye3205]

I really appreciate your succinct explanation of the loop trap that phones can get us into. I’ve moved to an analog notebook myself for daily logging for this exact reason. Well said! :)

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad it was helpful

[@careerconstellation6070]

Don’t you find that some of the notes you put in your pocket notebook are the most profound. The handwritten note show so much authenticity that I don’t want to throw them away at times. Thank you for a thoughtful and artful video 😊

[@AustinSchrock]

Yeah sometimes I do. Thanks for the feedback

[@shiroanimations7512]

How are you not a bigger?!!! You’re handsome, intelligent, humorous and your videos are insanely well produced with catchy titles. Wish you all the best!

[@AustinSchrock]

Thank you!

[@BeccaDoesStuffYT]

I couldn’t figure out exactly why I prefer to write a lot of my thoughts down rather than use my phone. But you just hit the nail on the head! It causes distractions for me and I then quickly forget what I was going to make note of. I do use my phone notes to get stuff organized, but sometimes I just need pen and paper.

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@celiagallegos]

Same! Sometimes pen to paper is exactly what’s needed! 😊

[@J_Chaucer]

been trying this out this week and it is going really well. I mostly write down - interests, thoughts, items i want, reading lists, and things im stressed about.

[@AustinSchrock]

Awesome!

[@lauracragun]

So impressed with your level of conscientiousness

[@AustinSchrock]

🙏

[@TheWriterlyOne]

Can't wait to try this! I have a bajillion notebooks, but I've never thought about using on in place of my phone.

[@AkhilRaja16]

I started using one i feel so much better it comes with me everywhere it’s reliable I use my phone less and it does improve mental clarity

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad to hear it!

[@kait_sixcrowsbooks]

Seeing your first video about your pocket notebook made me go out and grab one today to try it out! Mine’s a 5in x 7in because I couldn’t find anything smaller, so I can’t put it in my pocket, but I still plan on bringing it with me everywhere! While I do have a journal for in-depth thinking on day-to-day stuff and a couple different bullet journals/planners for various parts of my life, I plan on using this one more like a brain dump and for lists/things that wouldn’t be as aesthetically pleasing in my other journals, lol. It’s interesting to see how you actually use yours, and I think I might pick and choose a few things to include in mine, too. Thank you for the idea!!

[@AustinSchrock]

You bet!

[@INDIANXxhgpp9907]

0:04 carryimg it outside 0:45 capture, distill, express( index, parma, bib)

[@Cluesvlogging12345]

I’ve been wanting one to write down my ideas on paper. I feel like when you write it on paper you have a more personal feel with the idea you wrote and writing it down on my phone is boring. I feel like it could help me connect with the world better. I should go to the store and get one today, thanks for the video

[@AustinSchrock]

You're welcome

[@rebelcat_1261]

Your first video actually inspired me to get a small notebook like the one you have (and to start learning how to write legible words). I'm still in the process of organizing how I store them on my computer, but I've the problem of those 14 different things bouncing around in my head all at once at 2:00am and I'm excited to see if and how this helps! Also, I can't help but notice that you're wearing a crew-neck that has five buttons on it. Am I the only one who's never seen that before?

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad to hear it! Let me know how it works out for you. Haha yeah I love that shirt. Honestly have no idea where I got it but have never seen one like it

[@NodirValiyev-im3cz]

It's good that there are people who try use phone less but there are ways of deleting distractions on the phone without getting rid of it, you gotta get a functional launcher as "nova 7" , Delete all of the apps on the main page, Change the logos of each app, Delete the colorful separates in any app leaving only text which you have to read to get what it means, And using any note app is great for a lot of stuff But it's your choice which one to use

[@AustinSchrock]

True, that's definitely an option. I love the tactile writing experience better I think

[@bartjoboy]

Still writing things down pen on paper for me just makes me remember stuff better or just feels better.

[@keraba1]

Thanks for another thoughtful video about notebooks. I don't think we realize the effort that it takes to remember all the little facts that we hang onto. I bought a pack of tiny notebooks from an office store. The instant I cracked the spine on one, it exploded and dropped pages everywhere. I prefer Midori, Moleskine, Monk manual, ... Basically, anything that starts with an 'M'. btw, wow with the stock video clips...

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad it was helpful! I covered the cover of mine with scotch tape, sort of laminating it so hopefully that doesn't happen.

[@clarissejunqueira1994]

i got a notebook for my dnd campaign. i know i have adhd and even though i can use a phone to take notes, i knew i would get distracted. in this group someone asked what was the best app to make the character sheet and i said pen and paper, why? because she could do it without distractions and keep track of things easily. this is what i will always do, so... giving this tip away would only keep it going on

[@AustinSchrock]

Oh that’s awesome!

[@loganmahoney2284]

First exposure to the topic of thought loops. Experience this frequently but never fully addressed or defined. Thanks!

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@nilsnapflin1046]

I really love that idea. I must try it out

[@AustinSchrock]

You should!

[@jnsnj1]

Years ago I had that same little composition book and used it similarly. Not to avoid using a smartphone since I didn’t have a phone at the time. I got so much crap from people. “What is that? Your little black book?” Being the most common harping. No jerk I work full time and go to school full time I’m trying not to forget things I need to do.

[@AustinSchrock]

That’s awesome

[@giulianogisotti4107]

And just while you're talking about finding a space where no one's agenda can distract you, here's a word from our sponsors.

[@oxjuliaaaxo]

Distill may help wity studying. Gonna give it a shot when my classes begin. 14 years out of school and I'm finally getting a degree. Looking for tips and your video came up!

[@AustinSchrock]

Let me know how it goes!

[@trishthoburn3020]

Love this idea! I am a middle school teacher. I am always looking for a monthly challenge for us to do together. I'm going to try this with my students.

[@AustinSchrock]

Sounds great!

[@itsmekarishma_____128]

Thank you for the lovely ides, i am going to get started on pocket journaling to note down my thoughts and ideas. Indeed , it's an asset that boosts productivity and saves so much time giving space for mental clarity.

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad to hear it!

[@racheljones7045]

I saw your video about this 6 months ago and haven’t stopped thinking about it. I just started my notebook last night. I would love a Notion template for your migration process if you have one

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad to hear it! I don't have a migration process really, I just put the info where it belongs. I do have a skillshare class breaking down my entire second brain and how I organize it if your interested. You can get your first month free if you use the link in my description

[@adrianruiz4681]

❤ this video. Thanks for your powerful insights. As a facilitator I always have my field notes with me to capture what I am hearing, seeing, and feeling.

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@blgannon]

Came here because I'm thinking about pocket notebooks today but staying because I see Stephen Lawhead books on your shelf. Well done

[@AustinSchrock]

glad to hear it

[@cyclista-7282]

Glad that you made a follow up video on your pocket notebook. Your older video went viral and this one will too. Focus on this, please! :)

[@AustinSchrock]

We'll see, it's very niche that's for sure. Although the beauty of it is that it's so simple, so I don't feel like I can make lots of videos about it

[@xTeeak]

I have came across your video about keeping a pocket notebook about 2 weeks ago .. I captured the idea into my "main" table journal .. since then I have aquired a notebook, started carrying it with my phone everywhere my phone goes jounalled in it a little (mainly just organizing notes from my main journal) doodled in a bit .. aaaand here I go .. 2 weeks later I am in a rut not knowing how to continue .. did I just open my notebook while watching this just to capture the esence of CDC without even thinking about it? .. :D .. this thing is crazy :D .. often times I have found myself staring into my phone and noting down things from that into my notebook to wrap my head around it "later" .. I guess I need to work on my "distill" skills :D

[@aalookhalo]

I'm so glad i clicked on this video. Thank you!

[@AustinSchrock]

Welcome!

[@hisforharley2022]

Just found your channel thanks to another notebook video of yours. Pretty cool idea. I've found myself missing out on ideas when I discover it but fail to record it. There are times when I do write it but still reread it days later all confused cuz I didn't put enough details.

[@AustinSchrock]

No problem!

[@alanp.7160]

Your brilliant videos are beneficial, and even your sponsors are engaging.

[@AustinSchrock]

Thank you!

[@gigi-iv4gj]

I agree totally with you. The notebook is a very good strategy😊😊😊😊❤

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks!

[@colleenfox]

I really like your content and I can tell how much effort you put in. Keep up the good work!

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks, will do!

[@Vidu-313]

Amazing video, I always had a question about using a pocket notebook effectively and this video helped me to get a better understanding about how to use it. Thank you...….. 👍👍👍 📓📓📓

[@AustinSchrock]

Thank you 🙏

[@JoeCastellon]

After watching your other video about the pocket notebook, I bought a 32 pack of mini pocket notebooks and 24 pack of pocket pens 😆 wish me luck

[@AustinSchrock]

😆😆 sounds like a recipe for success to me! Let me know how it goes!

[@idgioana]

I absolutely agree with all said in the video! And it's a really cool how well you describe the way thoughts in such situations work.

[@AustinSchrock]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@folksurvival]

Thanks for making this follow-up video. I'm always curious about how people (actually) use notebooks and journals.

[@AustinSchrock]

You’re welcome!

[@cassanoa]

Your a very smart young man - I have been at this game for a very long time and have used every digital toy in the world - I was there when the smart phone invented and have watched it turn into the digital prison it has become - they are very addictive to say the least - but they do take away that special thing called creativity - with their limited format we are driven to use them for stuff we really can’t creat with - where paper is really boundless - the best form is the dotted paper notebook because the reference dots create at least 8 directional structure - you can make graphs - ruled writing - draw pictures - a piece of paper is as big as your imagination - as open as your brain and is everything you said - it allows you to focus on a objective - do you notice how people at some point ask you what your writing - they never ask what your entering into your phone - and if I may impart another observation to help really get work done - don’t study or think in a open environment - the best study aid is the library style cubical desk - the desk with three walls surrounding you - there is something about siting in such a desk that forces you to Focus on the paper in front of you or the book your reading - little or no distractions - especially smart phone or laptops and you enter your mind - that’s when you get the best ideas - after everything is on paper - you use the computer to creat simulations or graphs or whatever to test out your ideas - I started using a rocket book notepad and scanning the sheets into digital - maybe the best of both worlds - your walking along - you get a cool idea - open the book and erasable pen write it down before you forget and then review - electronics have scrambled our brains - primitive paper brings order back

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for your insights, I found this comment enjoyable to read

[@FrilledMayfly_AmberlyFerrule]

I finished my first pocket notebook just a few days ago, had it for a year and immediately jumped into the second one! I use it for shopping lists, random ideas, and much more! It's recently become a sort of mini sketchbook for when Im away from my big one. The idea of it is to have it replace my phone in the way of "distracted? look at the random things you wrote and scribbled" but also adding new ideas and things. It's become extremely important to me and recently started using it much much more!

[@AustinSchrock]

That’s such a good feeling finishing one! Nicely done

[@minaglumac3818]

this became my favourite inspirational video, thank you so much ❤️✨

[@AustinSchrock]

Wow, thank you!

[@ClearBlueSky1]

As a fellow analogue system user to help me navigate my days and process the world ( my Bujo ) I really enjoyed this video ! Thank you ❤ Also its so important to acknowledge just how much technology is screwing us over by robbing us of our attention and time, which a trustworthy notebook could never do !

[@AustinSchrock]

You're welcome!

[@Miscast]

Sorry, odd question but what font is the 'mental clarity' text at the start?

[@AustinSchrock]

"Rinse" I believe. If that doesn't look right look for "cotton"

[@lauracoccia8623]

Cool a pocket 'journal'. I remember those big books in school

[@JollyJupiterr]

I want to use my pocket notebook for kind of a free way to break down random questions I have (if that makes sense.) For example, if i'm out on a car ride and I look out the window and see a small ice-cream shop, I could write the name of it and some questions I have like, "When was this business founded?" or "Is this family owned? If so, whose idea was it to start this and why?" Just basic critical thinking to give myself random knowledge that may or may not come in handy one day. It's also far better for my mind to be doing something with some academic value than scrolling endlessly until my eyes start to get dry.. :)

[@AustinSchrock]

That's a great idea :)

[@alfredcarmona]

I love your channel and videos, thanks for share your knowledge and experience with us. Best wishes and God Bless you

[@AustinSchrock]

You are very welcome

[@theburchnellfamily]

I use one as well. Mostly for todo lists or random ideas.

[@SoutheastLouisiana]

You are a beautiful soul, thank you for the wisdom, ill be thinking about this

[@AustinSchrock]

You’re welcome!

[@SoutheastLouisiana]

@@AustinSchrock ive been Journaling for 3 weeks now, its been helping me organize my life, thanks for the recommendation

[@masonr1666]

I use a pocket notebook this way: Left page is for shopping lists, the right page is for todo lists. One week at a time. Why this set up? Well, let's say you are making bowl of cereal and you notice you are running low on milk; take out the notebook, flip the page, and add milk to your shopping list.

[@AustinSchrock]

Nice!

[@hansdampf-i5x]

I bought me one, and so far it tisa great !

[@AustinSchrock]

Great to hear!

[@JonJosephKuhn]

All of your videos are amazing. However it kinda blows my mind how hyper niche your audience is. You're the micro notebook guy and I'm here for it!

[@AustinSchrock]

Thank you so much! Haha I know it is kinda interesting, not sure if it'll stay that way or if I want it to. We'll see

[@thomaswinward]

nice lighting! i can tell you put a lot of time into it.

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks!

[@gwarlow]

4:02 Question: Will this inspirational music be playing each time that I make an entry in my notebook? Cheers. Great video!

[@AustinSchrock]

Yes. It’s an automatic response 😂

[@evanhall6045]

I plan on getting a notebook and trying to carry them both around and see which one I end up reaching for the most

[@TheEthanCouch]

How would you organize two journals? I have a journal for a day to day record, and I'm going to implement a notebook for during the day. How would you organize the two journals, and would you use them together?

[@AustinSchrock]

I honestly don’t really. I just keep separate ones. Sometimes I start writing in the back so I can rip it out if I need to

[@TheOriginalXultar]

This video is amazing. Thank you!!

[@AustinSchrock]

You’re welcome! Thanks for the feedback

[@SoutheastLouisiana]

6:46 me when I realize I've been scrolling for 2 hours straight

[@rhedonlyrhed9155]

Capture is kind of the easy part for me so I have an slim a5 with me coz i get interested about something and just branch out from there, completely forgetting about time and priorities (unless its one Ive somehow pinned as super important like a delivery or an appointment, can't seem to do anything before those coz i might miss them or something). But comes Distill, i feel hesitant to NOT use some info Ive spent much time reading and understanding (and im not really smart nor quick on the uptake, so i tend to hoard and feel attached to those notes) or feel like the important info isnt enough until i have too much info to do with. So the mental strain pulls me back to either starting out another interest that i feel is easier on my brain or as u point out, get pulled into other tasks i remember as I go thru my analog notes (not so different to the surfing and shuffling i do on my phone 😂) long story short, i struggle to get to step 3 and have something out of the info Ive just went and spent my time and braincells doing. (Its kinda why i stuggle with my course and couldnt graduate. Felt a little lost and insufficient with how i deal with my papers despite the notes I make, the tutorials I watch, or motivations I engrave on my wall...and somehow those papers seem to require so much emotion and attachment 😵) I mean... im watching this video and at the back of mind, im pinning it among the other videos I watched and now it felt like im just procrastinating even when the idea was to learn or affirm a system 😭 Oh, but the questioning part in both self reflection and probably info sorting is a good point. I seem to struggle with "attacking the problem" coz somehow my brain just takes it on a broader sense of "what am i confused about/what are my intentions?" which I find a lot of the videos I watch have an easier time problem solving with those questions alone-- like I need to know how people have a straightforward and decisive mental processes 😂 i feel so burntout online AND offline 😅

[@Metaldadbmx90]

Since deleting social media last year I've thought about doing this more. I use a little field book for work so carrying around a little notebook more often seems like the next step. I'm tempted to trade my smartphone for a flip phone but youtube and spotify are used so much still

[@PiecefulTimes-MonicaGum]

I have only watched two of your videos and can immediately tell you are a Christian. Am I wrong? I love writing things down, constantly and I usually use my phone unless I am really working on something specific and then I use a normal sided notebook because I can write! A lot, in a quick amount of time. I think I need to re try the pocket notebook however, because I have recently realized how distracted I get when opening or even looking at my phone. It does cause a yucky feeling one that is almost defeating. I will go back to using a pocket notebook once again. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@AustinSchrock]

You’re not wrong :) Hopefully this time it’ll be different!

[@abeytagrl5161]

Great video. Thank you

[@AustinSchrock]

Thank you

[@TylerMiller]

I noticed the Circle series by Ted Dekker on your shelf - great set of books!

[@AustinSchrock]

It's so good!

[@enviousleaf]

Very well put-together video! This makes me want to pick up a small journal I have and start using it :)

[@AustinSchrock]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@dr.rajasaurusandunclebonec6526]

I just remember that I actually used to do this a lot when I was a teen. I had a couple of diaries.

[@Excogitationn]

Is there a reason you choose a composition notebook over, let's say a Field Notes or any other type of notebook? Because If I remember correctly you've owned others?

[@AustinSchrock]

The field notebook was a little to long for my pocket, and it also didn't lay open on it's own. It made copying notes out of it more annoying

[@celiagallegos]

Hi Austin! Thank you for going over everything in detail within this video - it was all extremely informative and helpful! I do have a question regarding certain lists I’d like to start in a new notebook. I’ve been thinking about creating specific “master lists” I’d like to have on hand - ideally all in one notebook, for quick & easy reference. For example, I have a few places (notebooks, planner, notes app) where I’ve started certain lists, such as “Etsy shops to try, Fave stationery shops, Discount codes…etc.,” but I’d like to have ONE notebook where all these “master lists” go (that’s the best term I can think of to describe these). Hopefully that makes sense! Do you have any suggestions or ideas on how to organize these lists?? Ideally I would like for “like items/lists” to be sectioned together, but not exactly sure how I would do that 🤔 Thank you (and anyone else who’d like to chime in! Lol) for any ideas or tips you may have!! 🎉 ✨Celia

[@AustinSchrock]

I’ve run into a similar issue on my end. Something you could try is putting them in the back and working your way forward, then if you tear them out it doesn’t clutter or mess anything up. The other idea would be to split them up into sections, each with 5-10 pages or whatever you need. Then put a marker for each section, color coded so you know which list your turning to. But this is the hard part of having a notebook where you can’t digitally move things around :/ hopefully this helps. If you find a better idea let me know I’m open to suggestions as well

[@celiagallegos]

@@AustinSchrock Thank you! I actually like the idea of creating sections for each topic and leaving about 10 blank pages or so

[@celiagallegos]

@@AustinSchrock these are really helpful! I think what I might do is create separate sections for each topic! To me, that personal sounds the easiest! OR I’ve also thought of using my notebook I have that is already split up into 4-5 sections 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@PixelGM]

HOW IS THIS SO RELATEABLE?!

[@AustinSchrock]

beats me

[@JoJoOnYouTube]

I have a venting notebook which as the name implies, i use it to vent whenever I've had a stressful day or i have a lot on my mind.

[@AustinSchrock]

That's a good idea

[@kardelenkoc9746]

imagine ironman wth all those ui up on his face all the time (i mean in the suit) i normally feel like that. i have so many things that i need to start doing, keep doing and finish. and i need to keep these in mind. also i have mild ocd so i have "problem trends". like i need a small problem but can't solve it at the moment or something that is not possible to solve. i keep thinking that through out the day over and over again until i lose my mind :D i stress myself over it because i need that subject to be solved and closed. like a puzzle that is unsolved, that thing drives me crazy. but when i write it down i feel like it's secure now. this mostly applies to my emotional problems like i ask myself the same questions or i keep telling myself how this happened etc but when i write it down in detail without skipping anything i feel like the thoughts really moved into the notebook. i get over the issue easily afterwars. of course this can't solve my problems by itself but i don't obsess or stress over the same thing. and i've always been a journaling girl before it was cool :D i used to wrote my memories cause my memory isn't good at remembering details. so i wanted them to be unforgettable. and no i don't remember my memories just because i wrote them but i do read them from time to time. and sometimes i swear i've never heard of that memory before :D i discover my own past :D but for now i'll just keep a notebook as a "mindbook". whatever needs to be cleared and remembered will be in that notebook, no rules no pretty bullet journal templates no perfection just practicality

[@AustinSchrock]

That’s a great analogy, thanks for sharing!