Every year on January 23rd, we celebrate National Handwriting Day. This day was first promoted by the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association as a chance to re-explore the purity and power of handwriting. It’s a day that encourages us to put pen to paper and write out our thoughts.

The Who and Why of National Handwriting Day

National Handwriting Day is celebrated on John Hancock’s birthday, January 23, and it dates back to 1977. The day was invented by the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) and is dedicated to acknowledging the history and influence of penmanship.

Handwriting is more than just a form of communication; it’s a true art form and one of the few ways we can uniquely express ourselves. Each person’s handwriting is unique, much like their fingerprint. Celebrating this day reminds us of the personal touch our handwriting brings to our lives and the lives of others.

Handwriting creates a synaptic pathway for growth and learning in the brain. Children who practice handwriting have been shown to demonstrate better memory retention, comprehension, and creativity. Writing things out by hand also helps us slow down and process our thoughts more deeply than typing on a keyboard. It allows us to be more mindful of what we are writing and reflect on our words before they become permanent ink on paper.

5 Reasons to Start Journaling on National Handwriting Day

To celebrate this day, here are five reasons why you should pick up a pen and start journaling:

1. Personal Reflection: Writing by hand allows us to slow down and reflect on our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It’s a chance to be present in the moment and record our feelings without distractions.
2. Improve Creativity: Handwriting has been linked to improved creativity and problem-solving skills. By writing out our thoughts, we can visually see patterns and connections that may not have appeared through typing.
3. Boost Memory: Writing by hand engages different parts of the brain than typing does, which can improve memory retention. This is especially beneficial for students who need to remember information for exams or professionals who want to retain important details from meetings.
4. Unplug and Relax: In today’s digital age, we are constantly bombarded with screens and notifications. Writing by hand gives us a chance to unplug and relax without the distractions of technology.
5. Leave a Personal Legacy: A handwritten journal is a personal keepsake that can be passed down to future generations. It’s a way to leave a piece of yourself and your experiences for loved ones to cherish.

So on National Handwriting Day, take some time to pick up a pen and write. Whether it’s in a journal, letter, or note, the benefits of handwriting are endless. So let’s celebrate the beauty and importance of handwriting on this special day. Happy National Handwriting Day!