How to Write a Diary

Write the date in the first corner or line. You probably don’t keep a diary every day, so keep a date to see when things happened. Diaries are often written over a long period of time, so the date information will help you organize and know the context of events when you read them back later. ^[4]

• If you like, you can also record the time, day of the week, and where you are next to the date.

Start each journal page with a topic you’re thinking about. Most people take out their journal when they have something they want to write down or ponder. It can be anything – something that happened during the day, a dream the night before, future plans, an event, an idea or a strong emotion you are experiencing. . ^[5]

• Once you’ve set your pen, you can move on to whatever topic you like! But having an idea in mind when starting a journal can help jumpstart the writing process.

Begin by saying “Dear Diary” if you like. This is a personal choice, so do whatever you think is best and most suitable for you. At first, calling “Diary” sounds like you are looking for a friend without just talking to yourself. This can be helpful if you are new to journaling. ^[6]

Write in the first person perspective with the pronoun “I”. Diary is a very personal thing and is usually written in the first person. In the diary, you can write whatever you want about yourself! Many people find this to be a source of relief, especially when you are exploring your own thoughts, feelings, and reactions. ^[7]

• For example, you could write, “I’m worried about the volleyball team audition this week. Even though I practiced really hard and prepared, I was still so nervous that I could barely eat anything.”

Write honestly. Many people feel liberated when journaling, because on paper they can break free of all limitations and truly be themselves. Feel free to jot down your feelings, both positive and negative. Remember that no one will read what you write, so you can be honest about anything. These stories are just for you.

• For example, you could write, “I’m jealous when I see Son’s new car. I’m happy for him, but I feel that God is unfair. He was bought a brand new car by his parents, and I have to work every day when I go to school and just want to have enough money to buy a used car.”
• If you’re afraid someone might get hold of your diary and read it, there are a few ways to prevent it. Locked diaries and password-protected electronic diaries are the most popular ways to keep privacy.
• Honest diaries can help many people see themselves and their relationships better. Be open to self-discovery when journaling. ^[8]

Don’t pay too much attention to grammar and spelling. Diary is a safe place for you to release and share without the pressure of outside judgment. Use your pen to write freely and don’t be shy. Writing with correct grammar, spelling, and perfect sentences is not as important as expressing thoughts and feelings on paper. Record the first thoughts that come to you as you reflect on the past day, your current mood, and the emotions that are troubling you. ^[9]

• Many people find it easier to write when they spend the first few minutes just freelance writing.

Use lots of details to keep the memorable moments in time. Journaling helps you record the thoughts and feelings you’re going through. You can also record events right after they happen, while every detail is still fresh in your head. These memories can become hazy, especially as time goes on, so the vivid details captured in a diary can help you preserve the moment exactly as it happened. ^[10]

• Not everyone has the ability to write in detail, so don’t force yourself to write long sentences. If you find it easy to express feelings in short sentences, even with bullet points, write your own style.

Choose a certain time each day to journal. Some people find it difficult to find time to journal, others just forget to write. It may help if you choose a certain time to write every day to develop this habit. It will eventually become your natural need, but between now and then you can set reminders in your phone! ^[11]

• For example, you can journal every night before you go to bed.
• Don’t set an unrealistic writing schedule for yourself. If journaling every day seems like an out-of-control task, plan to write three times a week.

Originally written for a short period of time. You don’t have to spend a long time every day journaling! 10-15 minutes per session is already a big goal when you’re just starting out. Quickly jot down your most immediate and pressing thoughts and feelings. You can absolutely write more when you have time during the week! ^[12]

• For example, you can write some bullet points in your journal when you are in a hurry.
• A strict writing schedule that you set for yourself can backfire. Journaling should be a stress reliever, not an obligation, so take it easy.
• Choose times to journal during times when you don’t have a lot of tasks to do and don’t have time constraints.