Do you find yourself scribbling in the margins of your notebook? In school, were you scolded for drawing while the teacher was talking? If so, chances are that you like to doodle. Although doodling is often the source of admonishment, there are many benefits to these quick and often mindless drawings.
Doodlers are more focused, even when they are engaging in other passive tasks. While it might seem counterintuitive, when you’re trying to pay attention to someone talking, for instance, you’re prone to daydreaming. But with the mental energy you expend drawing, it stops your mind from taking that extra step and wandering.
The act of drawing is also said to relieve stress. Think of the repetition of motion as akin to the act of knitting, crocheting, or embroidery. This causes us to relax and ultimately reduce cortisol, aka the stress hormone.
You can’t lose with doodling, so why not give this rewarding activity a try? It’s a great way to decorate the pages of an ordinary bullet journal, and it can help you stay focused the next time you’re on a long conference call. Check out our favorite doodle ideas below. Want additional prompts? Pick up the book 642 Things to Draw and challenge yourself to sketch even more.
Remember, doodles don’t have to be extensive drawings. When sketching, focus on a single subject or a simple prompt and see where your imagination takes you!
Fun Doodle Ideas for Everyone to Try
- Cars (or a traffic jam)
- Different types of cacti
- A surly kitty
- Bouquet(s) of roses
- Fabulous fungi
- A delectable slice of pie
- Salt and pepper shakers
- A mason jar with flowers in it (maybe a bee comes to visit)
- Praying mantis
- Ladybug (on a leaf)
- A zentangle—a shape that you fill with abstract designs
- A koala in a tree
- A repeating pattern featuring your favorite animal, fruit, or flower
- Geometric shapes like stars, hearts, cubes, and more
- Faces—experiment with different expressions
- A sly fox
- The current season or nearest holiday like Halloween or Christmas
- Crystals
- A silly llama
- Donuts and coffee
- Leafy trees
- A bicycle (bonus if someone or something is riding it)
- Musical instruments like a saxophone (add more for a symphony)
- Mountains with evergreen trees on them
- A sunny sky with a few clouds
