How to never run out of ideas: Get a journal. Here's how you can build your own:
The Bullet Journal This was my first experience with journaling early in 2021. It's a fantastic tool for:
• Scheduling
• Note Taking
• Appointments.
To get started, you need an A5 book.
Left page: write down the month, days & dates. Right page: Add in the tasks for the month. Then fill up the details on both pages. It gives you a birds-eye view of the entire month.
The following pages are for rapid logging. This can include anything from : • Events
• Tasks
• Notes To add structure to your bullet journal:
• = Events
- = Notes
x = Completed
> = Scheduled ahead
< = Scheduled behind
The Pocket Journal is more like a playbook. It's where I store everything including,
• Ideas
• Mindmaps
• Reflections
There are no rules with this journal. I use it to write down everything that comes to mind. It's versatile & easy to use. Let go of all grammar & spelling concerns you may have. It is where your ideas will become a reality.
Digital Applications Have a hard time with pen & paper? That's okay. Applications are a great way to get started. I recommend The Day One App.
• Free
• Streaks
• Easy to use
• Journal templates.
Journaling Prompts to get you started on your journey. Here's a list of journal prompts you can use:
1. What's next?
2. What did I do today?
3. What am I working on?
4. What am I grateful for?
Use to reflect on your thoughts & build a sense of awareness.
Now that you have all the tools, it's time to put them into action. Set aside 10 minutes a day to journal. Add this time block to your calendar. Choose the time that works best for you.
Start with DayOne & build a 30-day streak. Make journaling a habit. You can use the prompts or fix your template. Keep it as simple as possible.
Now you can add the bullet journal or pocket notebook. Regardless of which system you use, don't just journal for big occasions. Make writing a part of your everyday routine.
Don't censor your thoughts. The quality of your writing is not entirely important. Let your journal be whatever you want it to be. Your writing will improve in time.
Remember that writing is the highest leverage skill you can learn. The best way to improve that skill is by journaling. Whether you are writing just one sentence or several pages. Journaling is the one skill I'd recommend you start as soon as possible.