I am the type of person who has been writing ever since I was a young kid. Letters, poems, stories… all came easily to me. And yes, I kept it all. I find it extremely useful, from time to time, to go back and see where I’ve been (physically, mentally, emotionally). It also provides me a grand overview of how I’ve grown.
Recently, I found this article, 10 Principles for Keeping an On-Going Journal by Ruth Folit. I’m not too sure I agree with every point, but it’s still a good guideline.
I’m adding: Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t write every day. In fact, I realize that I don’t write at the same time (or place) every day, as she suggests.
Sometimes, it suffices to just jot a note or two (or a sketch, if you want), as a reminder of what’s going on in your life. You don’t have to write full paragraphs or diatribes.
And you don’t really need any particular software … I still like to use legal pads (all different colors) and different colored inkpens for different moods. Stationery stores and book stores have the most fabulous variety of blank journals from which to choose. You can have different journals for different topics, if you want.
I like journals with spiral binders that lie flat on my table or lap. If you later want to add pages to a ring binder, find pages that are already hole-punched. Don’t let the paper/binder/ink choices get in your way, however. You can stall out just on making those choices alone! (Some people just keep a small note pad in their backpack or purse, for portability.)
Last but not least: you don’t have to share your thoughts with anyone, if you don’t want to. Writing on the computer can work as well, particularly if you save your intimate thoughts in a folder that one else will see. Being assured you have privacy can be a freeing force. (Otherwise, start a blog!)
Most importantly, tell the truth. After all, where else do you get the opportunity to let it all out in such an unvarnished manner?
Enjoy!
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