What do Long-Term Writers have cognitively
that non-writers do not have?
As a relatively new writer, I am in awe of those who have been penning their thoughts since they could first write and who can’t imagine not writing every day.
On the other hand, I stare at a blank page, wondering what to write about, asking myself who would want to read what I have to say and why I would want to write anyway.
With persistence but not consistency, I have been coming and going to Substack. Looking back over what I have written and published in a heightened state of angst, I quietly think - It’s not that bad.
Towards the end of 2023, though, I cognitively burnt out. I had nothing left.
However, 2024 is a new year with new energy. I have turned my attention to cognitive health and fitness as my prime focus, nay obsession.
Cognitive fitness research gave me a few significant reasons to continue writing. It seems that writing is linked to numerous brain benefits, not just anecdotally but increasingly supported by science. Here are a few:
Enhanced Memory and Recall
Long-term writers often exhibit superior memory skills.
The act of writing reinforces memory retention, involving deep processing and organisation of information.
According to a study published in the journal "Applied Cognitive Psychology," writing by hand, in particular, leads to better memory retention compared to typing due to the involvement of motor skills and deeper cognitive engagement (Mangen, A., & Velay, J.-L., 2010). This efficient encoding of information in the brain facilitates easier and more accurate recall.
We write to remember.
Advanced Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Writing requires the evaluation of ideas, structuring arguments, and considering different perspectives.
A 2012 study in the "Journal of Writing Research" highlights how writing enhances critical thinking abilities, enabling writers to develop more refined analytical skills over time (Kellogg, R., 2012). This constant exercise in critical analysis fosters a higher level of cognitive functioning.
We write to think critically.
Superior Communication Skills:
Regular writing assists us in organising thoughts clearly and expressing ideas coherently.
A study by Pennebaker and King (1999) in the "Journal of Research in Personality" suggests that structured writing helps develop better verbal and written communication skills, a benefit extending beyond the writing desk.
We write to communicate clearly.
Increased Cognitive Flexibility and Creativity:
Engaging in creative writing enhances cognitive flexibility—the ability to think about multiple concepts simultaneously.
A study published in "Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts" showed that creative writing exercises boost creativity and problem-solving skills (Scott, B. A., Leritz, L. E., & Mumford, M. D., 2004).
We write to create and adapt.
Greater Focus and Concentration:
Writing requires a high degree of concentration.
Research in neuropsychology suggests that regular writing can improve focus and concentration, with writers often being better at focusing on tasks for extended periods (Kellogg, R., 2008, "The Psychology of Writing").
We write to focus our minds.
Improved Emotional Intelligence:
Journaling and creative writing contribute to greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
A study by Pennebaker (1997) in the "British Journal of Health Psychology" found that expressive writing significantly improves emotional well-being and self-awareness.
We write to understand emotions.
Heightened Neural Connectivity:
The mental exercise involved in writing strengthens neural pathways.
A study using functional MRI (fMRI) showed that writing enhances brain connectivity in regions related to language, thinking, and memory (Berninger, V., & Richards, T., 2010, "Brain Literacy for Educators and Psychologists").
We write to connect our brain.
Preserved Cognitive Function as They Age:
Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities like writing helps preserve cognitive function and staves off cognitive decline as we age.
The "Rush Memory and Aging Project" (Wilson, R. S., et al., 2012) demonstrated a link between writing and a slower rate of cognitive decline in older adults.
We write to stay sharp with age.
Science says long-term writers gain many cognitive benefits from their craft. Additionally, writing serves as a protective factor against age-related cognitive decline. It’s a significant contributor to cognitive health and resilience. I’ll have some of that.
Somehow, I missed Writing 101 at school in favour of numbers and spent most of my career firmly embedded in spreadsheets. Writing is firmly back on my agenda as I slowly work my way towards being a long-term writer and a cognitively fit Smart Ager.
You’re never too old, and it’s never too late.
My favourite Substack Reads this week:
More Benefits of Creatine by Beth Bennett, SenescSense.
Cathedral Grove by Cathey Cone, Notes from the Flipside
Accepting Responsibility by Elise Loehnen, Pulling the Thread
It's nice to know that we are doing good things for our brain fitness. The research by Pennebaker I mentioned has some very interesting data on the benefits of writing to sort out feelings. For me I want to structure my thoughts into a coherent piece of writing. Let's keep writing for the love of it.
Glad you enjoyed it Don. Write on.