In the age of the keyboard, handwriting is becoming less and less common despite some researchers' indicating that handwriting may be an important part of children's cognitive development. For people like myself, who have notoriously bad handwriting, the increased use of computers and phones is a blessing. People with bad handwriting are sometimes labeled as messy or disorganized beyond their writing. Here are 6 things you hear when you have bad handwriting.
1. What does that say?
The polite and tactful way of saying, "Wow your handwriting is terrible."
2. Woah, can you actually read that?
Yes, actually I can. That's kind of why I write things down, but I know it's still pretty shocking.
3. You know, a lot of smart people have bad handwriting.
I know this is supposed to be comforting, but it feels a little like a backhanded compliment.
4. Can you try to write neatly please?
Yes, I even had a professor single me out for my messy handwriting once before an exam. Needless to say, it wasn't exactly my best moment.
5. Wow, you could be a doctor!
Although this line is harder for me to counter since I do want to be a doctor, let's just say this isn't exactly the most flattering reason for me to become one. I was thinking more along the lines of helping people, but that's just me.
6. What font are you writing in, Wingdings?
The not-so-polite version of #1, but I guess at least it's creative?
Having bad handwriting might be a burden at times, but at the end of the day there are so many more important characteristics than quality of handwriting. Humor, intelligence, kindness, and maybe some humility from time to time can go a long way. And if you ever do get caught up in an argument about your writing, you can always use the excuse: "I'm writing in my own font!"
