Journaling consistently shows up on the “how to start your day” recommendations of gurus and grandmothers, alike.
“The Lord gave me this answer: “Write down clearly on tablets what I reveal to you, so that it can be read at a glance.” ” -Habakkuk 2:2
Writing it down does several important things:
- It helps you deepen your understanding. Moving from thinking to writing always furthers your comprehension of what you’re learning. (Teaching is the next step toward comprehension or mastery.)
- It gives you something to reflect back on. You can quickly recall the next day, week, or year where you were in this moment and what you were learning, or what you were planning.
- It gives you something to pass on. The words on the page can serve as inspiration for others. Even if your journal is private, the thoughts, ideas, or actions steps can be converted into another sharable form.
As you look to 2019, consider including journaling in your daily, or at least weekly, rhythm.
I keep a journal by my bed. I don’t journal everyday, but I like having it there when I’m preparing for a new day in the AM, or reflecting on the day in the PM.
Evernote is also a useful note taking tool. I use it multiple times a day to capture thoughts, reflections, and new ideas.
There’s no perfect system. Just YOUR system. If you have one, revisit it. If you don’t, start small. Even really small, literally, with post-its. Just start somewhere.
Your future self is grateful you started.