In the last couple of posts we’ve looked at different aspects of journaling, but one thing that can get in the way is the illusion that you have to write loads of stuff.
If you want to build the journaling habit then you need to do 3 things:
1. Keep it simple
Don’t feel that you have to write reams and reams of stuff each day. If you do, then you’ll start to feel overwhelmed, and that is a very quick way to dry up any creativity that you may have. Instead, keep it very simple, and when you start just commit to writing one line a day.
Yes, one line a day can be just enough to get you into the habit of writing.
Obviously if you can write more, then that would be great, but when you set your goal at the most basic level, then you’re setting yourself up for success. As the habit begins to stick, writing will become more automatic, so a blank page won’t stress you out.
2. Make it part of your routine
Whether you choose to write first thing in the morning or last thing at night, get into the routine of journaling at a specific time. That maybe when you wake up, when you have breakfast, on the commute into work or before you go to sleep. Only you will know when will suit you. The trick is to be consistent and persistent.
3. Set an alarm
For ages, we struggled with getting a routine going at our home school. That is until I started setting alarms on my phone to remind us. Now when my son hears it, he knows that it’s time for work again.
When it comes to journaling, if you’re struggling to get into a routine, then consider setting an alarm on your phone as a reminder to write. It really does work!
4. Keep your journal with you
If you emptied out my handbag, 99 times out of 100, you’ll find some sort of journal or notebook there. I like to have a journal to capture my ideas, and since I don’t know when they’ll hit me, keeping one journal for ideas and having it on me means that I can always capture them.
If you can, keep a journal with you. You don’t know when inspiration may come, and sometimes something happens and you need to write about it then and there.
When you start journaling, it can be difficly to get into a routine, so if you miss a day it’s no biggie. Just write when you remember, and don’t forget, just one line a day is sufficient.
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Don’t forget, you can join my 30 day journaling challenge any time and if you’re looking for a journal to write in, then I’ve created one or two on Amazon. There’s even a “Line a day” journal. ANd if you don’t liek the cover, that’s ok. Let me know, and I can get a book created with a cover you do like in a very short time. That’s what happened with a friend of mine. She liked the idea but not the cover, so chose one herself. She then sent that journal out as a birthday present!