How to Start and Keep a Journal
People Start Journals for Many Reasons, and Then Keep Journaling
Oct 6, 2009
A journal is like a diary in that is a very personal record of thoughts, ideas, and feelings. It can also be a way to record the family history so future generations can read about it and understand where they came from. Getting into the journal habit and keeping it up can be done by following these steps:
Start With a Nice, Attractive, Bound Blank Book
This will start give a more credible feeling to the journal entries. Somehow putting down very personal thoughts and feelings in a notepad found on the discount table just doesn’t have the same panache as penning ideas in a bound journal. The bound blank books will also last longer so if the journal is for future generations, the information will be better preserved. Look for attractive blank books in stationary stores, bookstores and office supply stores. Use either a spiral bound journal (there are some very nice ones) or a regular bound one. A spiral bond journal is a little more convenient for portable journaling as it will fold back on itself.
Write in Ink
Pencil may smear, especially if writing on both sides of the page. There are eraseable pens available if necessary. Colored gel pens are good for illustrating the journal, but the gel ink cannot be erased. If the journals for posterity, keep the future readers in mind as well, but do not sacrifice personal creativity. There is no right way or wrong way of keeping a journal.
Find a Quiet Pace to do Daily Journaling
It can be at home or somewhere else, as long as it is comfortable, gives the writer some privacy and time without interruption. Let the mind go, reflecting on the day and either what happened or what is planned, depending on the time of day. It is possible journal online if for those more comfortable typing thoughts than hand writing them. Use a blog and password protect it to limit access. If the journal is for for future generations, include the login and password information in a will or make it available to whomever needs to have access.
Start Each Journal Entry With a Date
This may seem a bit confining, but it will make a difference to future readers, including the author. Journals are sometimes used to reflect on past actions and plan future ones. Dates will help pinpoint events. Future readers will also appreciate the dates if you plan on leaving your journal for posterity.
Do Not Expect the First Entries to be Letter Perfect
The writing/journaling style will improve as time goes on. It is important to not go back and ‘edit’ early entries as they need to remain authentic to the time when they were written. Growth as a person as well as a writer and the changes in thinking will be readily observed to someone reading from the beginning to the end of the journal, even if that reader is the writer.
Be as Creative as Possible and Take Risks With the Writing
This is an excellent opportunity try multiple writing styles. Insert short fiction pieces, try some poetry, or write full interpretations of what other people are doing. Be honest when writing about feelings down. A journal can be a starting point to writing articles and stories for publication. Use it as a practice field to hone writing skills.
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