We use our smart phones for everything.  Talking, shopping, making dinner reservations, following navigation directions, getting stock updates – the list is endless. However, bouncing between apps, and trying to stay on top of everything through multiple functions can be time-consuming and unproductive.  The phone alerts that need to be silenced during meetings; the constant search for the perfect list-making app; and the need for many of us to still use sticky notes for the things that we absolutely, positively cannot forget has brought us full circle to the time-tested journal as the perfect tool for getting organized.

The journal works on the premise that nothing is forgotten if it’s written down.  An idea for the next blog, an appointment, sales goals, client information – it can all be recorded with a personally designed organizing system, or with the help of popular new systems like those employed by the designer of the Bullet Journal.

As reported in the Wall Street Journal, another popular journal brand, Moleskine, revived the popularity of journals in 1997 with a traditional leather-bound notebook and has seen revenues double over the last 5 years.  And many of those users are millennials who embrace the digital lifestyle. Why?  According to Moleskine co-founder Maria Sebregondi, “… even the most plugged in people find it comforting to create their own designs”.

Companies who recognize this trend take advantage of the branding opportunities and  apply their logo to journals in every style and price point.  The choices range from simple styles that offer chip board covers, 70 sheets of paper and wire binding – to the more sophisticated versions with features like die-cut covers, custom tip-in pages with graphics and event details,  business card pockets, and pen ports.  These journals are used every day at home and in the office by the scores of customers who welcome an opportunity to write it down instead of logging it in – what better way to keep your brand front-of-mind?

Consider the classic journal for your next promotional gift – it’s not techy, and for many of us, that’s the point.