How To Start A Personal Journal


by P.S. Orr - Date: 2010-07-19 - Word Count: 559 Share This!

If you are like most people, you have every intention of starting a personal journal at the start of a new year, but like most people, you never actually quite get started. Even jotting your thoughts down for a brief time every day seems easy, but getting started can be quite a challenge since it's a new habit to form in your daily routine.

You may also be hesitant to get started because you're really not sure where to start! So, here's are few tips to help you get started on your personal journal.

Tip #1 - Choose either a book or a computer file to hold your daily thoughts.

Traditionally, people have used a personal book to jot down thoughts about the day. You can pick up a specific book made exclusively for journalling or you can find a ring binder or any other type of empty book that you can fill with your thoughts each day.

It's never a good idea to journal onto loose pages or pages that can easily be torn from a notebook or ring binder. You want something that can hold up at least for a year before you move to your next empty journal book.

Many contemporary people prefer to set up a dedicated file on their computer to be used specifically for their daily journal. If you choose to do this, be sure to also set up a password if you have sensitive material that you don't want just anyone to stumble across.

Tip #2 - Write freely.

This is the one place in the world that you can actually write what you really think about whatever has happened that day and how you feel about anything or anyone. You may find that there is cathartic value in daily 'spilling your guts' in a venue that will never argue with you!

Tip #3 - Write in any style you like.

This is not the time for analyzing your writing style, grammar or anything else. Just let it flow. Whatever comes out is important so don't be bashful or a literary perfectionist when you write your personal journal.

Tip #4 - Keep your journal private.

The reason that you can spill your guts so to speak, is the security you will feel in knowing that know one else is going to read your journal unless you allow it. Be sure to keep your book in a secure area and your computer journal in a password protected file.

There may be times that you choose to allow a counselor, close friend, spouse or someone else important to read part or all of your journal. If so, let it be solely at your discretion.

Tip #5 - Enjoy the personal reflection.

Many people very much enjoy their time that they write in their personal journal each day. It is a time of quiet reflection and personal catharsis that is very soothing and helpful after a busy day.

Sometimes issues may even arise that you weren't really aware of that may require follow up with a counselor or other trusted individual who can help you sort out problems. Personal reflection through journalling can be a healthy and healing activity.

It is never too late to start a journal whether it's at the beginning of a new year or at another time. Make a definite commitment to get started on your personal journal and record the important parts of your life.

Related Tags: writing, journal, personal journel, writing a journal

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