How to Keep a Daily Journal

Learn how to start a daily journaling habit to capture your thoughts, dreams, and memories in a private space. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Pick your special spot. Find a notebook that feels good to hold. It does not need to be fancy—a simple spiral notebook or a collection of papers stapled together works perfectly. Find a cozy corner in your room where you feel comfortable writing.
2. Write the date. Start each entry by writing the date at the top of the page. This helps you look back later and remember exactly when you had a certain thought or experienced a fun event.
3. Start with a prompt. If you aren't sure what to write, try answering one of these: 'What was the best part of today?', 'What is one thing I am looking forward to tomorrow?', or 'If I could be any animal, which one would I be and why?'
4. Keep it personal. Remember, this is your journal. You can write in full sentences, make lists, draw doodles, or even tape in ticket stubs from movies or leaves you found outside. There is no right or wrong way to fill your pages.