It’s Katherine, writing from Nord, Greenland, which is currently in the midst of the dog days of summer (and by that I mean it’s only slightly below freezing).
As a publishing professional, I tend to support anything that promotes the habit of writing. As a spy, there are few things I love more than top-secret documents.
Which is why I’m a cheerful advocate for journal writing.
Yesterday, Ahna and I talked about some of the benefits of journaling, especially for current and prospective writers.
During our conversation, we mentioned different types of journals and the various purposes they serve. I naturally started to wonder what other kinds of journals might be out there. Of course, Ahna quickly pointed out that just because I could steal a bunch of other people’s diaries and read them as reconnaissance didn’t mean that I should.
So I did some wholly legal research (happy, Ahna?) and found some creative journal ideas. The following information is — a little disappointingly — unclassified.
1. Bullet Journal
If you’re looking for a way to organize and keep track of your to-do lists, projects, future plans and the like, then a bullet journal may be your best friend. Bullet journals are also great for anyone who wants to fully incorporate their journal into their day-to-day life. If you’re unfamiliar with bullet journals, this website has a helpful tutorial.
2. Gratitude Journal
Keeping a gratitude journal is a great way to promote happiness by reminding yourself of all the things that are going right in your life. You can write about loved ones, pets, fun experiences, happy memories – anything that brings you joy. When you’re having a stressful day, go back through and read your previous entries. No matter how tough life gets, there are still things to be grateful for.
3. Topical Journal
Journals don’t have to be a comprehensive look at your life. If you have something you’re passionate about or have a specific goal you’re working towards, keeping a journal can help you gather information or monitor your progress. Some examples include travel journals, reading journals, and diet and exercise logs.
4. Time Capsule Journal
If journaling on a regular basis sounds too daunting to you, then you can always keep a time capsule journal. Pick a date and record as many details about your life as you can. Revisit the journal in one year, and reflect on how those details match up to your current life. Time capsule journals can provide a sense of direction by showing you the ways you’ve changed.
5. Co-authored Journal
Sharing a journal with a friend or loved one can be tricky to coordinate, but there are some good benefits to keeping a co-authored journal. Sharing a journal with someone gives you a specific audience, which can help to keep you focused and motivated. Hearing someone else’s ideas can help to boost your own creativity as well.
I hope at least one of these ideas gives you inspiration for your next journal or writing project. And, if you can’t travel to Greenland, I hope you find other ways to beat the summer heat. Until next time, readers.
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About Coffee Break Confidential:
This monthly column is where EBYR assistant managing editor/vlogger/super spy Katherine Gibson divulges extra information from Coffee Break with EBYR that would otherwise be kept off the record. She’s researching topics related to children’s literature, posting her findings — and taking down some powerful militarized governments in the process. Just kidding about that last one. (Or are we?)
