Do you ever wonder what you were doing or what you were thinking on a completely random Sunday two years ago?
So much goes on in our daily lives whether we know it or not, some events significant and others not so much. But don’t we have the privilege and right to remember all of it?
When this finally dawned on me, I decided to embark on the journey of writing a daily journal. It just so happened that I started on January 1, 2016. Call it a “New Years Resolution” but I would rather not think of it in that way. Beginning a journal was honestly something that I just really wanted to do for myself. I am a person that loves reflection and this is the perfect tool to do just that.
The beautiful thing about this kind of writing is that you can do it however you want. There is not a set template, it’s not censored, and it is completely genuine if you allow it to be. Every day could be a novel story of how your day went or even just a symbolic word that you jotted down and wanted to remember. Every once in a while, something happens during the day that really makes you think or gives you a new perspective and you think to yourself how you never want to forget it. All of a sudden you have something to write about.
If you are like me, you are are a somewhat private person. Sharing your deepest thoughts and exposing yourself to others isn’t always the easiest thing which is why this private way to share these things is so meaningful. Being able to go back and look at everything you experienced as a person from days, months, or even years ago is really special. It’s very easy to get caught up in life and sometimes we need to remember what is important. My journal is that little reminder.
There is no better way to let go of your true feelings about what is bothering you or stressing you out than writing. Letting the words fly on paper is one hell of a therapy session and it’s even free. And no one ever has to see it if you don’t want them to.
Yes, I know you might be having weird flashbacks to middle school when the fad was to write every dull and uneventful moment of sixth grade in your padlocked diary, but trust me on this. This is something different. Entries become almost poetic at times. The ink on the paper really means something now and you will be so appreciative to have that written document of this crucial time in your life as the years pass.
Of course, this is not to say all entries will be worthy of The New York Times. For example, I would like to share with you my 43rd entry:
February 12th, 2016 “Today did not feel particularly significant. I’m wondering if that somehow makes it significant.”
My advice is to track down or buy a notebook that you absolutely love. Then just start writing. One day at a time. It doesn’t need to be elaborate, content-heavy, or even compelling. Only the truth is required, the rest is up to you.
