When it comes to daily journal writing a huge misconception is that every daily entry has to be something deeply rooted in a huge word count. Well, nothing could be further from the truth.
Let me explain. But first I ask that you remember these timeless words:
One: “A picture is worth a thousand words.”
Two: “Brevity is the essence of wit.”
Three: “The more you say, the less you say.”
OK, the third one is something I say but it is a take on something I heard a long time ago that someone said about me, “Dave doesn’t say much but when he does you should listen.”
I really need to remember to practice that much more often, now. But I digress.
The point I am trying to make is that when it comes to daily journal writing it does not have to be some long drawn out process. 100 words typically suffices when it comes to encapsulating the day, a situation, experience, event or interaction. Now, of course, when it comes to presenting your side of the story, especially for legal purposes the details should prevail.
For everyday journal entry should be brief, especially for beginners. Here is an example of a 100 word journal entry:
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10 words: Thursday, June 19, 2025. Hot and Sunny might rain later.
10 words: I had the day off. It’s Juneteenth. Day that word
10 words: got to Texas that Slaves were free. Two years later.
10 words: Apparently, they did not have X or Facebook back then.
10 words: Yeah, today people get upset if their pizza is three
10 words: minutes late. I cannot imagine how they felt when they
10 words: finally got the word. Cheated our of two years of
10 words: freedom. I am glad those times do not exist anymore.
10 words: I am grateful to be living in a time where
10 words: people are free and those that struggle can get help.
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There it is 100 words total. Conveying a personal emotion, reflection, and looking ahead, all in a simple & brief 11 sentence entry. It can be done. It can be done by almost anyone.
Sure some might struggle, initially, coming up with the 100 words but with time and practice it becomes almost like second nature.
-Dave