How to Make a Diary of Your Life: 9 Steps (with Pictures)

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How to Make a Diary of Your Life: 9 Steps (with Pictures)
How to Make a Diary of Your Life: 9 Steps (with Pictures)

Video: How to Make a Diary of Your Life: 9 Steps (with Pictures)

Video: How to Make a Diary of Your Life: 9 Steps (with Pictures)
Video: 5 Easy Ways to Start Journaling 🖊️ 2024, March
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People have long believed that keeping a journal is rewarding. You can record the conversations and activities of each day, or you can recount the thoughts and narratives that permeate your existence. Your journal can have daily, weekly, monthly, or no-period records. The important thing is to write the truth. Use your journal to understand yourself better.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Starting a Journal

Make a Journal of Your Life Step 1
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 1

Step 1. Buy a notebook

You can use a paper notebook or you can create your diary on your computer. Choose the model you prefer, as long as it inspires you to write.

  • Use a simple, medium-sized notebook that you can take with you wherever you go. Prefer one that fits in your purse or pocket.
  • Choose a leather-backed notebook if you want to add a touch of sophistication. This can be great if you want your diary to look special.
  • Download a diary app, open a text document, or keep a folder with files for each record. You can make a private diary or you can post it on a personal page.
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 2
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 2

Step 2. See the type of journal you want to keep

Some people like to record everything that happens during the day. Others like to write about thoughts and visions in the form of occasional notes or poetry. Still others like to draw experiences or make "mind maps" or just write down dreams upon waking. Think about why you are doing this.

There is no right or wrong way to keep a journal. It's your life and your diary. It can be helpful to pick up tips from other people but, above all, you should follow the style you prefer according to your practice

Make a Journal of Your Life Step 3
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 3

Step 3. Fill in the first page of your diary.

Go somewhere calm and quiet so you can just focus on your journal. Write freely for about 15 minutes, without thinking too much. Let the words flow and don't read what you're writing.

  • Write about what you did today or what you plan to do tomorrow. Talk about the places you've been, the conversations you've had, the things you've learned, and what's occupied your mind. This is a space to include any details or information you want to remember.
  • Write about someone you are thinking about. Write about what makes you stressed or happy. Include dreams, plans, fears and insecurities.
  • Try to recognize the fact that you are starting your journal. If you can't think of anything else to write, then talk about being your first time writing. Take a page to explain why you start a journal, what you hope to learn about yourself, and what it feels like to put your thoughts down on paper.

Part 2 of 3: Keeping a Diary

Make a Journal of Your Life Step 4
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 4

Step 1. Write daily

Some people like to write daily, while others prefer to write once a week or once a month. Set a frequency to get into the habit of writing. Commit to spending ten minutes writing each morning or night.

  • Try writing “Morning Pages”, a creativity tool popularized by Julia Cameron in her book “The Artist's Way”. Each morning, before doing anything else, write three pages by hand in a notebook. Don't check what you're writing or think too much, let your writing flow.
  • Try to keep a diary with monthly updates. At the end of each month, write about the main events. Talk about what happened, what you liked and what you learned. Track your growth and development each month.
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 5
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 5

Step 2. Keep your journal in a safe place

If the intention is to reveal your deepest and most vulnerable feelings, chances are you don't want someone to read it. Carry the diary with you at all times, of course, for convenience, but also safety. Alternatively, hide it in your home or office. A safe, behind books on the shelf or under a mattress are recommended. If your diary is virtual, protect it with a password or in a hidden file.

Make a Journal of Your Life Step 6
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 6

Step 3. Use the journal to understand your growth

From time to time, read what you wrote in your journal a few months or weeks ago. If so, read records from years ago. Compare how you thought in the past and how you think now. Remember the past to be well prepared for the future.

  • Notice when you felt sad, frustrated, or accommodated in life. Try to notice the next times this happens so you can do something about it.
  • See the times when you were happy and excited about the future. Think about how you can channel this feeling.

Part 3 of 3: Writing in More Depth

Make a Journal of Your Life Step 7
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 7

Step 1. Try to write the “hidden narrative” of your life

Use your journal to explore things you would never tell anyone else. Be completely honest and don't hide anything.

Try not to correct yourself while writing. It doesn't cover anything. Write as if no one would read your diary

Make a Journal of Your Life Step 8
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 8

Step 2. Write as a form of therapy.

Studies show that journaling can be a powerful way to process grief, trauma and emotional pain. Make it a habit to write to vent your feelings when you are feeling bad.

Make a Journal of Your Life Step 9
Make a Journal of Your Life Step 9

Step 3. Use writing suggestions to guide you

Look for examples of what to write on the Internet or ask a friend or therapist for tips. You can also think of some themes you would like to develop. Having a different question or topic each day, for example, can be a great way to nurture a writing habit. When writing with suggestions, it can feel like you are writing for someone else instead of just for yourself and feeling responsible for the structure of the journal. Consider the following questions:

  • How would you like to be remembered? Are you proud of who you are?
  • What personality trait do you most admire or look for in other people? Why?
  • What do you have an obligation to do regularly or every day? Why?
  • What's the best advice you've ever received?

Tips

  • Use pen instead of pencil. That way, you won't be tempted to delete the most personal information. Remember: journaling is not for others, so don't feel insecure.
  • Buy a spiral notebook. In case you make a mistake, just tear off a leaf. In brochure notebooks, pulling out one sheet may remove others.
  • Write in good handwriting. It will be easier to read when you are older and want to read your past records.

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