Tips and Tricks for Your Journaling Journey
Tips and Tricks for Your Journaling Journey
By: Aliza Warner
Even when almost everything is digital, journaling is still a popular pastime for many. And why would it not be? It can be used to record your thoughts, feelings, and ideas while creating something to look back on later in life. But when you get your first empty journal, it can be challenging to decide how to start. Luckily, many different methods are available to help you fill your journal over time.
Pick the Type of Journal
If you want to start journaling, the first task to complete is to pick the type of journal to use. Anything that you can write on will generally work as a journal. Your journal can be either physical or digital (like Notion or the notes app on your phone.) Pick whatever medium works for you, and now you can begin to write.
Use it for Documentation
One way to start your journal entries is to document your own life. Diaries may seem more common for younger people, but it is something you can carry into your adult life as well. The events you choose to write about are up to you — daily activities, observations, fun moments, sad moments, your thoughts or ideas. Many of us already capture our lives with photos or videos, and journaling can be another way to do so too.
Create Goals and Checklists
A journal is a perfect tool for organizing your tasks and goals. Your tasks can be something you want to complete daily, weekly, or monthly, all organized into checklists. Goals in a journal can be more detailed, having a structured plan, and timelines you see fit.
Practice Creative Writing Skills
If you enjoy writing creatively, a journal is definitely the place to do so. Many prompts are easily found online if you want to generate more imaginative writing. Creative writing can range from poetry to short stories about any topic you like. Who knows? You may find a new idea for a project you can work on personally.
Practice Reflection and Gratitude
Reflecting on your life is a great habit and a great way to fill a journal. To do so, begin by asking yourself questions. For example: how are you feeling in this present moment?; what are you grateful for?; what worries you?; what is something that brings you joy? When writing, do not be afraid to go into detail and be elaborate. Remember that reflecting is all about pausing to examine your life. Writing your thoughts can allow you to see them from a different perspective rather than having them sit in your mind.
Add Visuals
Journaling does not have to be done with words; it can also be done with visuals. Adding some visuals is a great way to make a journal more personal and add something fun too. You can add photos, magazine clippings, drawings, paintings, and even momentos. If you would like, a vision board can also be created here in this space.
How to Begin
Like any new skill, it always takes practice, and for journaling to become a part of a routine, it takes time too. To start:
Find a time during your day when you can pause and write. You can also dedicate a place to write, whether it is at a desk, a cafe, or outdoors.
Make sure it is a place where you can clear your mind.
Begin journaling at least a few times a week to get into the habit, and eventually, if you are able to, find a few minutes each day to journal and incorporate it into your routine.
The best part of having a journal is that it is yours to do whatever you want with it. And with any writing, the best thing to do is just start and have fun with it. Before you know it, you will look back on all the journal entries written and reminiscing on your own experiences on those very pages.
For more lifestyle tips, keep reading Square Magazine. For daily content, follow us on Instagram at @um.squaremagazine.