If you have been reading my blog for a while, as in before March, you have probably been wondering what the heck is up with me and being obsessed with Filofax planners and stationery! Seriously guys, I am feeling you if you have been a little confused about this whole new world I have decided to incorporate into my life and into the blog. I know it’s hard to explain personal obsessions to those looking in from the outside, but being organized is sort of my thing, or at least it used to be my thing back in college, high school, middle school and beyond! Life after college changed the way I organized myself. I stopped being hyper organized and became more strategically organized, spending time on the things that mattered and not everything as a whole. But as life progresses, I find that more and more things become important enough to need a specific place in my life and I need to keep track of it! So, enter Filofaxes, Kikki K planners, washi tape, etc. Once I started researching planners, I uncovered the whole online Filofax and planner community that is down right amazing! I even started using Facebook again just to be part of the groups (and that’s saying a lot because I have not used Facebook for like two years!) I know its not for everyone, but I like the sense of community and sharing of ideas because all that jazz really makes me feel supported and helpful, so I gave some serious thought to why I love the Filofax community so much as a way to give you all an understanding of my obsession. This is what I came up with!
1. RAKs: I know some people may see me use this term on my blog or on twitter/instagram, but RAK stands for Random Acts of Kindness. Within the Filo community, this term refers to people send others a small letter or package with positive words of encouragement or gifts of stationery supplies. It is also known as Happy Mail and it can be anonymous or not. There are a few groups on Facebook dedicated to this precious act of giving and it is definitely one of the big reasons I like to participate in the groups. It’s not that I am looking to receive things from others, but I am obsessed with sending out RAKs and sharing with people I have never met. I honestly think it’s a beautiful example of the human spirit and an example that the internet can really help to bring people together from all over the world.
2. Pen Pals: Another popular activity within the Filofax community is pen paling. Now, I do not have a letter writing pen pal (although I have more than a few people I message and email with) but many people in the stationery groups are involved with it and I think its amazing! The act of letter writing is such an ancient and lovely practice that I am glad to see its resurgence in these communities. You know how I feel about hand written thank you notes, and in so many ways this is again an amazing way that the internet is bringing people together.
3. Positivity: I cannot get enough of the Filofax groups, pictures and posts because they are bursting with positivity. This community is one of those few places online where I truly feel safe and protected from the dredge of the internet. That’s not to say that everyone is always happy and upbeat, but the general culture is one of inclusion, support and self-betterment. The community members are always promoting each other, sharing ideas and always have kind words to share. It has such a positive vibe!
4. No lack of content: From the multiple Facebook groups to the Instagram hasthtags to the endless blogs and websites to the YouTube videos and the Pinterest boards, there is such a wealth of content within the Filofax community that you can immerse yourself in it and always find something new. This is probably why I am so obsessed, because the more you dig the more you find and uncover and suddenly hours have passed and you walk away feeling like you have learned so much and felt all the positive energy!
5. New Friends: Out of everything I have dabbled with online, nothing has yielded so many personal connections as this community. I have made a bunch of new online friends, some bloggers, some just enthusiasts, but all of them wonderful. It really is amazing how a subject like a planner would draw people together in such a profound way, but it has and I am so glad that I discovered this little pocket of the internet where I truly feel at home!
Hi!
I absolutely love all your pictures (and the blog). I’m in graduate school and certainly trying to organize myself! This looks like a great idea, I’ll be shopping for my planner soon.
Thank you
I absolutely agree with you as I feel very blessed to be part of such a lovely community. I’ve been to two London meet ups & had such a fantastic time. Some people definitely don’t get it, but as a longtime stationery nerd I’ve found my online home 🙂
Even though I am new to the filo fax community I have to agree with your sentiments expressed in your blog.
I to like the idea of having a pen pal that has an interest in fil o fax’s and stationary, but I do not know how to go about it perhaps you can advise.
Love this blog entry! I too, have found a niche in the Planner community…and have met some really wonderful friends, that have truly blessed my life! I love reading your blog….and watching your videos! You are so down to earth….and, it always seems as if you are talking, to family or your best friend! 🙂 Thank you for sharing, this part of your live with us….I would love to be email “pen pals” with you! I have about 6 other pen pals, that I actually write handwritten letters too….and 3 other pen pals that, I communicate with via email. Let me know, if you would like to become email “pen pals” and we can exchange information. Once again, thank you so much! Have a wonderful and blessed day! 🙂
Thank you so much Angela for the lovely sentiment! I’m so glad you enjoy my blog. If you ever want to say hello feel free to message me on Twitter or Instagram @Misstrenchcoat. I practically live on my social media feeds! Have a wonderful weekend!
Because Filofax is AWESOME 😀
I hope you’ve finally decided to pull yours out of retirement and put it to use!
Love your page. I am a high school teacher and I am trying to organize my work and personal life. Well I can’t afford a filofax or a Kikki.k because the shipping to my country is very expensive ( in love with these brand) but I have found a system that can helps me. Hope one day I can buy a Filofax or a kikki.k.
Hi from Costa Rica. ( sorry if my english is not very good 🙂 )
Hi! Im kind of new to this filofax world but I love it so much already! Im looking for penpals, could you recommend a few groups on facebook for me to join? Thank you very much!!!
Hi. I read your recent comment….regarding Filofaxes….and looking for pen pals. I’m also looking for more pen pals. I don’t have a Facebook page, instagram, or Twitter. But,I do have a YouTube channel (JustSkrapItPurple) and a Pinterest account….if you, want to check them out. If you would like to become pen pals…let me know…and we can exchange information. Take care! I wish you a wonderful and blessed day! Warmly, Angela
Thanks for the comment Angela! I am not looking for pen pals at the moment, but good luck with your YouTube Channel! Have a great day!
Hi Francine! I do not belong to any of the pen pal groups on Facebook, but if you check the Happy Mail, Planner & RAK Lovers group, you may be able to find some people to pen pal with through that group!
Totally agree! The filofax/planner community is so great!
Yes! Thanks so much Kristy!
Hello!
1. I really adore your blog! Found it through Pinterest I think, searching for inpiration for my Filofax 🙂
2. I love reading this about filofax. For years I have had such addiction to filofax, but it really kicked in last year. I did not realize how big this culture was until some weeks ago (honestly, I thought I was alone about this weirdness).
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Thank you!