In a world overflowing with information, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. We consume articles, podcasts, books, and social media posts at lightning speed, but how much of it do we truly retain? How often do we pause to reflect on the ideas that resonate with us? This is where a commonplace book comes in. A commonplace book is a personal collection of quotes, ideas, observations, and reflections—a treasure trove of wisdom curated by you, for you. As someone who’s kept a commonplace book for years, I can attest to its transformative power. It’s not just a notebook; it’s a tool for deeper thinking, creativity, and self-discovery. If you’ve never heard of a commonplace book or aren’t sure how to start one, let me guide you through the process and share why this timeless practice is worth trying.
What Is a Commonplace Book?
A commonplace book is essentially a scrapbook for your mind. Unlike a journal, which is typically filled with personal thoughts and experiences, a commonplace book is a collection of external ideas that inspire you. It could include quotes from books, snippets of poetry, interesting facts, sketches, or even ticket stubs from a memorable event. The key is that it’s a space for capturing and organizing the ideas that spark your curiosity.
Why You Should Start a Commonplace Book
- Deepens Your Learning: Writing down ideas helps you process and retain information better than simply reading or listening.
- Sparks Creativity: Flipping through your commonplace book can inspire new ideas and connections.
- Creates a Personal Archive: Over time, your commonplace book becomes a unique reflection of your interests and intellectual journey.
- Encourages Reflection: The act of selecting and recording ideas forces you to slow down and think deeply about what resonates with you.
- Builds a Resource for the Future: Your commonplace book becomes a go-to source of inspiration, whether you’re writing, creating, or simply looking for a dose of motivation.
How to Start a Commonplace Book
Starting a commonplace book is simple, but here are some tips to help you get the most out of the practice:
1. Choose Your Medium
Your commonplace book can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Some people prefer a physical notebook, while others opt for a digital tool like Evernote or Notion. I personally love the tactile experience of writing by hand, but the choice is yours. The important thing is to pick something that feels inviting and easy to use.
2. Decide on a Structure
While a commonplace book is inherently personal and flexible, having a loose structure can help you stay organized. Here are a few approaches:
- Thematic Sections: Divide your book into sections based on topics (e.g., quotes, poetry, art, science).
- Chronological Order: Simply add entries as you go, dating each one for context.
- Indexed System: Leave a few pages at the front for an index, so you can easily find entries later.
3. Start Collecting
The beauty of a commonplace book is that there are no rules. You can include anything that catches your attention. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Quotes from books, articles, or speeches
- Passages of poetry or prose
- Interesting facts or trivia
- Sketches, doodles, or clippings from magazines
- Personal reflections or connections to the material
4. Make It a Habit
The more you use your commonplace book, the more valuable it becomes. Try to set aside a few minutes each day to add to it. You might do this after reading, during a quiet moment in the evening, or whenever inspiration strikes.
5. Review and Reflect
Periodically revisit your commonplace book to reflect on what you’ve collected. This not only reinforces your learning but also helps you spot patterns and connections between ideas. It’s like having a conversation with your past self.
Tips for Keeping a Commonplace Book
- Keep It Portable: If you’re using a physical notebook, choose one that’s easy to carry with you. Inspiration can strike anywhere!
- Be Selective: Don’t feel the need to record everything. Focus on the ideas that truly resonate with you.
- Make It Personal: Add your own thoughts, annotations, or doodles to make the book uniquely yours.
- Don’t Overthink It: There’s no right or wrong way to keep a commonplace book. The goal is to create something that’s meaningful to you.
Why I Love My Commonplace Book
As a writer, my commonplace book is an endless source of inspiration. It’s where I turn when I’m stuck on a project, looking for a fresh perspective, or simply in need of a little wisdom. But more than that, it’s a record of my intellectual journey—a snapshot of the ideas, stories, and moments that have shaped me. It’s a reminder that learning is a lifelong adventure, and that there’s always something new to discover.
Final Thoughts
In a world that often feels chaotic and fast-paced, a commonplace book is a way to slow down, savor ideas, and create something lasting. It’s a practice that’s as old as the ancient Greeks and as relevant as ever in our information-saturated age. So, why not give it a try? Grab a notebook, start collecting, and see where the journey takes you. You might just find that a commonplace book becomes one of your most cherished possessions—a quiet refuge for your curious mind.
Have you ever kept a commonplace book? I’d love to hear about your experience or any tips you have for getting started!
