Suppose you are new to journaling and want to start but don’t know how, what, when, or where to start. Here are some essential tips. They work for me, and they’ll work for you.
Start Now with One
Start writing now. Feel free to stop reading, write in your journal, or open a new tab now. Start with one sentence, one word, one drawing – anything really. There, you have started your journaling journey.
But Keep Many
Use different mediums for journaling or record-keeping. Don’t stop with just one paper journal; keep an online journal, download a journal app on your phone (and use it—I recommend DayOne), keep a pocket-size Moleskine in your bag, bring a Travelers’ notebook when you travel, and more.
Many mediums minimize the chance of you not having something with you when you feel like journaling. Just ensure you use them.
Do it Everywhere
My number one basic B journaling tip is to journal everywhere and anytime. Sometimes, it’s not easy and can be awkward, especially if you are starting, but let it be your thing. Let your circles know that you journal, and that’s that.
Remember the Basics
Ah yes, the basics, like the title of this post, because they matter. You can thank me later.
Date and Title it
When you have enough entries, remember to date and title each one. You might think this is trivial, but I forget to do it all the time, especially when I feel emotional, tired, or too busy. The first thing I need to remember is to put the subject and date.
Details
Now for the second basic tip, which is less crucial than the first but still important: tag your post with details like where you are, the time, what you are doing, and who you are with. These details might seem tedious, but they help you develop patterns in your life.
Journaling helped me realize I have seasonal depression in Melbourne during winter and that I always have a terrible day when I wear a certain shirt. My point is patterns are useful.
Name Your Journal
This tip is completely optional – but it’s fun, so if you are up for it, name your journal. I call mine Nora – a tribute to Nora Ephron.
That’s it. Go forth and journal.
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