i want to start writing in a journal but im having a hard time on where to start?

Question

also to those who are journal writers..... which do u prefer ...writing on paper or on the computer online?

Answer 1

Either way - whatever is more comfortable for you. Since I learned to type 85 wpm, I can barely read my handwriting any more.

Where to start? Why not start with a highlight or event in your life? Describe the event and then go forward - showing what effect the event had on your life. You can always flash back to what led you to that event. Then take it from there. Pax - C.

Answer 2

My handwriting is atrocious so I much prefer journal writing on the computer. I completed one for 2006 and have 2007 well under way.

Break the ice in your journal by stating your objectives--why you're writing the journal and its purpose. Each entry doesn't have to be profound. Try to make an entry several times a week although a daily entry is best.

Your journal also serves as great reminders of things you're liable to forget and help you keep track of important events in your life.

Added: There should be no threat of computer virus if you establish an offline Microsoft Word or WordPerfect document for that purpose.

Answer 3

The thing about writing a personal journal is that you are free to write whatever you want, whenever you want, however you want. I've only started an online journal on 360 recently. I don't get too personal, but I share things I think are interesting. It's great fun to interact with others and see what they share.

For my really personal writing, I keep a handwritten journal. The act of writing is so therapeutic, and there is really a journey of self-discovery and growth that goes on when you see your thoughts on paper. Best wishes with your journaling adventures!

Answer 4

I guess I'd be asking myself, why do I want to start a journal? What is in me that makes me want to do this? What are the kinds of things I want to write down? Do I think of things when I'm with people? Do I jot things down on napkins at restaurants? Why do I want to do this?

Then try to do it and don't judge yourself by why others do it. Try not to censor yourself so you can be honest with yourself and make sure you keep your journal in a safe place where only you can access it.

Try both ways...try writing with a pen or pencil and try the computer. What feels best to you?

I do both. When I am emotionally driven, sometimes I need the computer to keep up with my thoughts because I type fast. when I am pensive, handwriting works best for me. But I have a hang-up...I hate writing on a page where I have crossed out...I go thru a lot of paper!

Give it a shot. I think it is great you are interested in doing this.

Answer 5

For journaling I always write with ink and paper. It's a journal, I don't want the possibility that I will hold back or edit my thoughts based on the possibility that someone might read it and judge me.
And trust me, stuff you don't know exists in your mind will come out if you feel completely safe.

And this sounds wierd, but you have to start where you are. Just sit and start writing...anything. It doesn't matter. If you start writing and don't worry that you'll have to edit for outside viewing it will come.

Answer 6

I usually write about events or thoughts that I always want to remember.. It could be extremely happy, sad, angering, etc. Coz when I look back into my journal after many years (or even just months), I see how much I've grown (or not). haha!

I prefer writing online because I have friends who also write online. it's our way of keeping in touch and updated. downside to online journals though, is that computers are not handy. i sometimes forget some details i want to include. so i keep a notebook nearby just in case my computer's down. and at times, i tend to think mainly about pleasing my online audience so my experiences could turn out skewed. it really depends on how much of yourself you're willing to share.

Answer 7

it depends- paper is good for when u write before bed and get inspirations from other places; also GREAT to brainstorm on paper; but comp. is for when u are already into the story and the idea... dont rush... just get inspirations from places and people that are around you... if u r in new york city, maybe take a subway across town into the nice areas and then into the not-so-nice areas... if u r in miami, go to the beach or to the mall; dont try so hard, just let it come, sometimes the best stories come from when u r not TRYING to think of one... when it is a good story, you'll KNOW IT IMMEDIATELY =) Just relax, get inspirations, ALWAYS have a pad of paper around with you; take a walk now, go outside; stop watching tv; dont read any more books; BE the author; BE the story. thanks for asking! hope this helps. =)

Answer 8

Just let all of your emotions come out. whatever is on your mind right down. soon you will be writing so fast that you cant even read your own writing.I would tell you to write in a paper journal because w/ all of the computer viruses these days, it could get out in the open.

Answer 9

I journal all the time. I used to hand write. But now I write into the computer - but NOT ONLINE. I write on my usual Microsoft XP where I do letters, etc.

Answer 10

I started keeping a journal while pregnant with my first child, knowing that the father was not going to be in his life. As far as where to start, take a few minutes every night or every other night and just recall events from the previous day/two days. the more often you take the time, the easier it will become.