At the end of the day, I enjoy getting my journal to record my thoughts, the things my children say and do, and the events of the day. This evening ritual gives me an outlet to release my day’s adventures, and then I can get a great night’s sleep. On nights I do not journal, I can lay in bed thinking of the day’s events or mauling over a problem, which is less restful for me.
Recently, I noticed that I was not writing often. Being in the habit of writing for the past 6 years, I wondered if had lost my desire to write. As I considered my change of heart, I reached for my journal. Immediately, I became discouraged. As I looked at the journal, I began to understand why I had not continued to write.
My journal was no longer inviting to me.
When I completed my last journal, I went to my cabinet to find that I had used my last pretty book. So, I went to the school supplies cabinet and chose this black and white composition book.
Though very practical, this book did not fit my preferences. With an uncomfortable and uninviting journal, I had distanced myself from recording my daily events. Once I realized that my lack of writing was not because I had lost interest, I quickly found this journal (inexpensively) that works for me.
I love my new journal, let me tell you why:
1. Small size. Unlike the composition book, I can put this journal in my purse. When I am waiting or resting, I can whip out my journal and write for a few minutes. I love having my journal with me.
2. Spiral bound. Where I had to crease the composition book to keep it open, I can flip the pages in my small journal to the page I need.
3. Colorful. The cheerful coral color makes me smile, unlike the black and white print on the composition book.
4. College-ruled paper. My little journal has the college-ruled sheets. Since I have very small handwriting, I prefer the college ruled paper. The smaller lines give me enough room to write without lots of empty space. The composition book had wide-ruled sheets, and my handwriting became very messy as I filled the white space.
5. Holds my pen. With the spiral bound rings, I can slip my pen on the end to keep with my journal. With the composition book, I had to keep a pen handy. But with a 17-month-old running around who is curious about everything, I did not keep a pen with that book. To write, I had to go to my desk and get a pen when I wanted to journal.
Now that I have replaced the black and white composition book with my little, spiral bound, colorful, college-ruled journal that holds my pen, I am back to recording all these great memories. I only wish I had discovered my preferences a few months ago. 🙂
By identifying my dislike and shaping up my journal, I have been using my time wisely getting caught up with little bits of spare time. Though you may not have an issue with your journal, you might discover a dislike to a household task like laundry. If so, try shaping up with a new laundry basket. If you struggle with menu planning, find pretty paper on which to plan. Whatever your struggle, identify what it is you do not like, and shape it up. The results are worth it!
Question: What item have you disliked and shaped up (or will be shaping up)? Add your answer by clicking on the Leave your Comment link.