EMBRACING ANALOG: Carrying a Pocket Notebook for a Year

Christopher Roche
Jan 8
4 min read

As a creator who constantly uses technology to write and organize my work, it’s easy to lose track of my thoughts when tapping away at my phone or typing on a keyboard. Don’t get me wrong-I love my phone and my computer. I wouldn’t be able to pursue my passion for writing without them.

They’re essential tools that help me get these articles to you.

But I was ready for a new kind of habit. Something slower. Something more intentional.

Enter this series: “Embracing Analog.”

It’s a blend of personal challenge, exploration, and practical advice. I hope you stick around, take what resonates, and maybe even find your analog adventure.

Inspired by icons like Indiana Jones, Peter McKinnon, and Lewis and Clark, my quest was simple:

Carry and use a pocket notebook every day for a year.

What would it be used for?

Anything and everything.

Ideas, to-do lists, card game scores, random sketches—essentially a place to reflect and capture thoughts as they come.

I’m happy to report: It’s been a resounding success.

Here’s how it went, what I learned, and my tips for anyone considering picking up a notebook and pen.

What I Carry

My Latest Setup: National Parks Field Notes | Big Idea Designs Pry Bar and Baseline Bolt Action Pen | Hitch + Timber County Fold

The first step was choosing the right notebook. I needed something small, pocketable, and convenient—something I could carry every day without needing a backpack or sling bag (though I love both and have a What’s in My EDC Backpack article coming soon).

I landed on Field Notes.

They’ve been my go-to from the start. The size is perfect—it fits in my side or back pocket—and their designs are beautiful. Plus, they’re a company with a great message.

Disclaimer: I’m not sponsored by them (yet), but I’d love to be. I’ve been a returning customer ever since I bought my first pack.

Of course, there are plenty of similar options, and I’ll link a few at the end of this article for you to explore.

Inspiration

One of my biggest inspirations for this habit was Peter McKinnon’s video, "I did this for 800 days and it changed my life". It's an excellent video that I highly recommend checking out.

Peter talks about his process of building the habit of using a pocket notebook. Like him, I’ve always loved the feeling of pen on paper, scratching things off a list, and jotting down ideas —but I used to hesitate to mark up a new journal or notebook, afraid of “messing it up” by writing the wrong thing.

That fear had to go.

I started small.

My first notebook was a simple “Get It Done” list, inspired by the type on my first Field Notes cover.

The Daily "GET IT DONE" List

"The Inspirational 'GET IT DONE' notebook that started this quest" Image Credit: Field Notes

Each day, I wrote down five essential tasks I wanted to accomplish.

These weren’t grand goals—they were the small, actionable steps that kept me moving forward.

Over time, my list grew. Now, my “Get It Done” lists take up a whole page, and I cross off tasks every single day.

How It's Helped Me

A list of all the essential places to visit in Pittsburgh (keep an eye out for the City Ventures: Pittsburgh guide coming later this month) — A list of all the essential places to visit in Pittsburgh (keep an eye out for the **City Ventures: Pittsburgh** guide coming later this month)

So, what’s the point of all this?

Here’s what I’ve gained from carrying a pocket notebook for a year:

Increased productivity: I track my tasks more effectively.
Better organization: My thoughts are clearer when written out by hand.
Time management: Crossing off tasks keeps me accountable.
Business growth: The structure has helped me focus on growing The Modern Xplorer.

You In?

If you’re up for a challenge, grab a pocket notebook and a pen. Carry it with you for a week and see what happens.

Maybe you’ll start sketching.
Maybe you’ll fall in love with writing.
Maybe you’ll discover a new way to organize your thoughts.

Whatever your reason, I promise it’s worth trying. It’s a way to disconnect from the noise of the digital world and reconnect with your own thoughts.

Recommendations

Notebooks:

Field Notes:

The perfect pocket companion. For all your to-do lists, sketches, card game records, and reflecting. A personal favorite.

Price: $14.95 (Pack of 3)

Link: https://fieldnotesbrand.com/products/vintage

Rite in the Rain Top Spiral Notebook:

Its waterproof paper allows you to write in rain, snow, or even with sweaty hands, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and field workers.

Price: $4.95

Link: https://www.riteintherain.com/3x5-top-spiral-notebook#135