I'm Sorry If This Is Too Harsh...

Write. Shit. Down.

Okay, let’s rewind– that was a little harsh. But to understand what I mean by that, you need to know about one of my most beneficial habits.

For the past 15 years, I have walked around with a notebook by my side (or at least within arms reach). I have filled more than eight notebooks throughout the years with little doodles, personal thoughts, professional notes, life goals… You get the picture.

But why?

It helps me compartmentalize my life.

So many things happen across all facets of life every day, and writing things down in different dedicated journals helps me be mindful of where things belong. Whether it’s a professional or personal topic, I can compartmentalize my thoughts.

After all, 150 million dollar acquisitions in 2023 don’t need to mix into my thoughts about my 2023 personal travels to 6 countries.

It keeps me accountable.

Journaling not only helps when setting goals but tracking them and building consistency. Most people have goals, but the first step to achieving them is to write them down and identify measurable objectives around the primary goal.

It helps me stay focused.

I keep my notebooks in front of my computer screen. When I find my mind wandering, seeing the goals in my journal gives me a jolt back to the current task. Keeping visual reminders will keep you on task and focused.

As human beings, we love distractions. I have found this practice helps me stay aligned.

However, I understand I’ve been doing this for years, but it can be tough to get it going. So, how can you start?

Well first… you don’t need ten notebooks for every aspect of life, but try 3: personal, professional, doodles, or whatever works for you.

Next, you need to create time to reflect. You have to make this a priority for it to become a habit. It’s as simple as creating three opportunities in a day where you can spend time reflecting in your journal. Will you journal three times a day? Most likely not. But building those times into your day will get you to jot down some thoughts at least once.

Look, you don’t need to reflect 15 times a day. But you must be intentional about getting it on your calendar and truly being focused during that time.

Remember, don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day here or there, or if you put something personal in your professional journal. But, the conscious effort you make towards journaling is the first step to being a badass.

-G aka The Journal Junkie