While it is never too late to start journal writing it is also never too early. From the moment we learn how to write, I truly believe we should be documenting our lives. Here is something to remember: If it is not in writing, it did not happen.
World history is teaming with notes, journals, diaries, and any form of record keeping. The history of life on Earth is kept by those that took the time document what happened to them and all around them.
Think about this: the world would never have known the name of Anne Frank if it was not for diary. Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius would just have gone done in the history books as just another Roman. Instead, his writings and meditations are inspiring and motivating people. There is also Leonardo Da Vinci and his famous Notebooks.
Now you are about to join the ranks those unique members of world history by documenting your thoughts, deeds, and actions. Basically, your life.
How to Get Started
To get started you are going to need three things:
- Pen or Pencil
- Paper or something to write on
- Time
Pen or Pencil: Always have a good, if not great, writing utensil.
Paper or Something to write on: You will need this to do your documenting.
Time: Start off small. Five minutes of uninterrupted time will do just fine.
Getting Started
Now that you have the three things you need, find a place to write.
It does not matter where it is, so long as it works for you. Remember, five uninterrupted minutes is all you need.
Once settled in comes the next question.
What to write about?
This is a great question and if you know what you want to write about then get started. However, for the other 99.999% of us, this is the question that is always left unanswered.
If you are not too sure where or how to start, try this:
- The current weather
- How you are feeling
- What major event happened today
- What was the highlight of your day
- What was the low point of your day
- Write one thing you want to make better tomorrow
That’s pretty simple. Yes, it can be that simple.
What if I want to write something else?
There is absolutely nothing you from writing what you want to write about. I know people that keep a journal on the performance of their vehicle. They log down every time they fill up, every time they check the tire air pressure, everything. If you do not want to write about yourself or if you want to write one specific aspect of your life then go for it.
Write about what matters to you. Yes, it is that simple.
How often should I journal?
You can journal as often as you like. However, do not start with such lofty goals like writing everyday after school and twice on weekends. Yeah, don’t do that.
You will burn out long before you make journal writing a daily habit.
Instead, start off small. Start with writing once or twice a week for about five minutes
Then slowly start to increase the frequency and duration of your journal writing.
Do not worry if you slip or skip days of writing, catch up and get back on track.
Tools & Resources
I will be updating this section soon.