The whole idea of journal keeping is centuries old. Quite possibly, from the time humans first learned to put a pen to paper and create understandable sentence structures people have been documenting some form of information about the world around them. A lot of our understanding about the cultures and societies of past generations has been gleaned from the pages of conscientious journal entries written by people intent on tracking their thoughts about their lives and the society around them.
Journal keeping is as valuable and fulfilling today as it ever was in the past. While there may be better ways to substantiate the goings-on of the world today, journal keeping is still an excellent way to achieve a personal record of thoughts, prowess towards goals, and plans for the future. Before you Design Your Own Notebook, here is just a sampling of what it can do for you.
It provides a visible progress report of your thoughts. Whether you use a computer-based system, a purchased bound journal, or a simple spiral notebook, any place where you can regularly record information will provide a reference to aid in your future progress
Your journal can be a great place to blow off steam. You may not always be happy with your significant other, your boss, or even yourself, but having a private venue to vent your frustrations can save you from embarrassing confrontations you would not choose to have when your mind is clear.
Do you want to lose weight, ramp up your exercise program, or build a website? Your journal can be the place where you set your goals, break them down into manageable pieces, and record your progress (or lack thereof) on a regular basis.
At its deepest level, a notebook can be a place to unload your most private thoughts, sift through those entries as time permits, and reach a clear understanding of your innermost feelings. Many people have gained as much from conscientious note keeping as they could have through a series of counseling sessions with a therapist. It helps you get in touch with your true self.
It keeps you grounded. Knowing you intend to spend a block of time on a regular basis with your journal will help you become more contemplative as you go about your day. Your truest competition is looking back at you from the mirror, and it’s good to know you will be facing your fears on the pages of your journal as you take on the challenges of your life.
There is no hard-and-fast method for documenting your thoughts. Sure, a regular habit of journaling may be more thorough and complete, but a sporadic attempt when it’s truly meaningful to you will certainly work as well. The whole idea behind successful journaling is that you share your thoughts on a personal level with yourself, with the ultimate intent of clarifying your mind while working towards a clearer future.
