Keeping a diary is an incredible tool that anyone can use to change their life. Here are 11 powerful journaling tips to get you started and make the most of your diary. Journal prompts are simple statements and questions designed to inspire your writing. They can be very useful if you are just starting out because they give you a place to start.
Indications may vary depending on whether you are keeping a diary for a specific purpose, for example, if you are keeping a personal care diary, you may start by asking yourself, “What do I need most right now?” A diary can help you plan your day or keep track of your projects or hobbies. Fill it with your favorite movie quotes, notes on recipes you've tried, or reflections on how your kids are growing up. You may not know what to write about and that's fine. Your diary can be about anything you want.
A good way to start writing is to close your eyes and think about what you're feeling. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented stress and uncertainty to our lives. During this time, 4 out of 10 adults in the United States have experienced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Forcing yourself to sit and write helps you put yourself in a mental space to write and intentionally let go of your usual responsibilities.
There is conflicting research on what time of day is best for creativity, productivity, or emotional well-being, which ultimately means that the best time of day to write is the time that best suits your own peak hours and the purpose of keeping a journal. Choose a topic or event to write about and try to write from someone else's perspective, such as that of a parent, friend, or even that of an animal. If the purpose of your journal is to release your annoying thoughts, you may want to write before sleep so that you can transfer those thoughts from your head and onto paper. The best journal prompts for beginners will encourage you to write and flow as you immerse yourself in your thoughts and emotions.
When you're on vacation, a travel diary can be an incredible tool to record your feelings when they're still fresh in your mind. Incorporate other methods of expression into your diary: scribbling, writing poetry, drawing, sticking stickers, painting a landscape, using charts and diagrams, pasting photos or pressing flowers. This is your go-to journal when you just want to take some time out of your busy day to write something, whatever it is. Your journal doesn't have to be full of deep thoughts and experiences, so try to separate your desire to edit from the desire to write.
You can write about the same topics or general experiences every day of writing or about different topics each day. On the other hand, this may keep you awake, in which case, you might choose to write in your diary throughout the day when those thoughts start to itch. When you write with the hope (or fear) that others will read your words, it becomes more difficult to write sincerely and express your real emotions.
