A diary is an excellent means of expressing feelings, recording dreams or ideas, and reflecting on everyday experiences using media that maintains privacy. While there are no specific rules or ways to keep a diary, the following tips make this activity both fun and rewarding. If you are confused about what to write, use the internet to find inspirational messages and quote them as opening sentences.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Choosing a Topic
Step 1. Write down everyday experiences
Start writing by remembering the things that happened since the morning and then note the important events or experiences that were most memorable. Even though everyday life seems ordinary, you may be stunned when certain thoughts or feelings arise when you write down various events while living your daily life.
- You are free to change the topic as you wish when writing daily experiences.
- For example, you could tell about your experience taking a biology exam this morning. Are you able to answer questions well? Should you study harder? Do you get worried when you think about test scores?
Step 2. Reflect on the life goals you want to achieve and how to achieve them
Write down short-term and long-term goals. Then, describe how to achieve each of these goals in detail. Break down each goal into a number of easy-to-achieve targets. That way, you don't feel burdened when trying to achieve your life goals.
- For example, as a short-term goal, write a plan to study algebra to take a promotion exam or to practice aerobics at the gym.
- As a long-term goal, write a continuing education plan by choosing a university and enrolling for an entrance test or saving up for a car.
Step 3. Express your current feelings or mood in writing
Do not be confused to find the right term to express feelings. Try to describe exactly how you are feeling. Use these feelings and thoughts as a source of inspiration to write a diary. Express your thoughts or feelings one by one while reflecting.
For example, if you're feeling sad, write down the cause and the event that triggered that feeling
Step 4. Write down an inspiring message and what it means to you
Inspirational messages can be obtained from various sources, for example from famous people, favorite books, movies, friends, or family members. Messages that inspire you are a great start to writing. Copy the message in a diary and note the source. Then, explain the meaning in your own words.
For example, quote Mark Twain's message, "The secret to progress is getting started" and then write down what it means and the steps you need to take to start achieving a specific goal
Step 5. Discuss your favorite topic or hobby in depth
Make a list of topics that interest you or things you enjoy, such as movies, sports, food, tourism, art, or fashion. You are free to choose the topics you want to discuss, as long as they match your interests and inspire you. Then, choose the most interesting topic and use it as a subject when writing a diary.
- For example, if you are a fan of a particular sport, explain why you like the sport, share the achievements of your favorite team, and the personal goals you want to achieve by exercising.
- If you like to paint, write down the names and achievements of your favorite painters, describe the painting style you are most interested in, tell us about the paintings you've made recently, and the ideas you want to convey through the painting.
Part 2 of 3: Keeping a Personal Diary
Step 1. Write the date in the top corner of the paper or on the first line
Having a date helps you remember when an event occurred because you don't necessarily write every day. Since keeping a diary will last for a long time, including dates keeps notes organized and makes writing easier to understand the next time you read it.
If necessary, you may include the time, day and location of the incident
Step 2. Start writing on a specific topic
Many people open a diary when there is something they want to express or ponder through writing. You are free to determine the topics you want to discuss, whether events that just happened, something you dream about, future plans, activities, ideas, feelings, even negative emotions that you are feeling.
After writing for a while, you can change the topic. However, having certain topics as starting points for discussion makes the writing process run more smoothly
Step 3. Write "Hi, Dairi" or another greeting
When you start writing, choose an opening that you like and that feels best for you. The word "Dairi" makes you feel like you're chatting with a friend named Dairi, instead of writing a letter or telling yourself a story. This method is quite useful for those who are just starting to write a diary.
Step 4. Use the word "I/I" to put yourself first
A diary is a very personal item and is more useful if you are telling a story in the first person. Plus, you're free to say anything about yourself! For many people, this activity is very effective as a means of catharsis, especially for expressing personal opinions, channeling emotions, and reacting.
For example, you might write, "I'm really worried about tomorrow's volleyball game. I've been training hard and ready to compete, but I'm losing my appetite because of anxiety."
Step 5. Be honest when writing a diary
Many people keep diaries to experience catharsis because they can express inhibitions through writing and be who they are. Feel free to write down everything you feel, both positive and negative, in a diary. Other people can't read your writing. Tell the truth, because only you know.
- For example, "I'm jealous because Aaron has a new car. I'm happy, but it feels so unfair. Aaron got a new car from his parents, while I have to work every day after college and save money so I can buy a used car."
- If you're worried that someone might find and read your notes, try to prevent it. Lockable printed diaries and digital apps that are password protected are two of the most effective ways to protect privacy.
- Many people understand more about themselves and their personal relationships with someone because they keep an honest diary. Take this opportunity to get to know yourself.
Step 6. Don't worry too much about grammar and spelling
A diary is a safe way to express feelings and share experiences without having to think about other people's judgments. Write your experiences freely without hiding anything. Expressing thoughts and feelings in writing is far more important than thinking about correct grammar, correct spelling, and beautiful phrases. Jot down the first thing that comes to mind when you bring up memories of the day's activities, current moods, and stressful feelings.
Some people take a few minutes of free writing when they start writing a diary
Step 7. Record details to capture every moment
A diary can be used to document thoughts and feelings through writing. Plus, you can instantly record every event that just happened while every little thing is still fresh in your mind. Recording details clearly and accurately helps you capture every moment as it actually happened because memory is unreliable, especially after a period of time.
There are people who are not talented at taking detailed notes. So, you don't need to be busy stringing words together in order to write long sentences. If it's easier to express your feelings in a short sentence or a few words, just do it
Part 3 of 3: Writing Regularly
Step 1. Get into the habit of writing a diary at the same time every day
Many people do not have time or forget to write a diary. Therefore, set a writing schedule and then do it every day until a new habit is formed. Even if you're already writing regularly, it's better if you set a cell phone alarm as a reminder!
- Get into the habit of writing a diary every night before going to bed.
- Don't make a schedule that doesn't work. If you don't have time to write every day, schedule 3 times a week.
Step 2. Set aside some time to write if you are just starting this routine
Don't let the activity of writing a diary take up a lot of time! When you're just starting to write, allocate 10-15 minutes per session. Take note of the thoughts and feelings that are stressing you the most. You can write longer if you have time!
- For example, write down your experiences as a list if you are short on time.
- A schedule that is difficult to implement is usually not useful. Rather than being an obligation, keeping a diary should be a means of expressing thoughts and feelings. Do not push yourself.
- Fill the time by writing a diary when you have completed assignments or have free time.
Step 3. Use illustrations if you prefer to draw rather than write
Some people find it easier to express thoughts and feelings through pictures than with writing. If you have to stick to a schedule that involves drawing or sketching, use this method!
Simple illustrations help you document events you want to remember, but don't have time to record
Tips
- Keeping a diary should be useful as a means of catharsis, not as an obligation. Take this moment to appreciate your writing!
- Try to disguise the diary by writing "algebra book" or "history notebook" on the front cover.
