My Layout Prompted Journaling Action

From The Pen's Nib: Edition 72

Topics: Journaling Methods and The Journaling Habit

Do you use a layout when you journal?

I rely on visual cues. Visualizing helps me remember where to find items in the refrigerator, pantry, bookshelf (we have many), or on my cluttered desk. Auditory directions don’t do it for me unless they include a visual. “Turn left on Ashtree,” won’t get me there, but “turn left at the house with a yard full of Christmas decorations” will.

Photo by S.G.S. Abel

Just this week, I realized how much visualization helps me in journaling. It keeps me focused.

I was following my morning journaling routine. When I reached the bottom of the page, just a glance back told me I forgot a component of my layout.

I added a new component to my layout, a daily mantra. (You can read about it here.)

I have never written a daily mantra in my journal. I’m experimenting with this new layout component. After I write my intention for the day, I write my mantra, “I am a minimalist.” I’m sure I’ll be writing about how the mantra works for me in a future edition.

The experience of relying on my visual layout reminded me to focus on the components. I’m not just going through the motions. I’m thinking of gratitude and my intention. I’m thinking about how I can be a minimalist. I give thought to what I want to remember most each day.

My journaling layout guides me.

I wrote my mantra that day, because my layout prompted me. It’s comforting to know that I have a built-in reminder.

Takeaways:

1. A journaling layout helps you visualize your journaling components.

2. Your layout guides your thoughts while journaling.

3. Your layout helps you focus on each component of your journaling routine.

If you journal, try this prompt:

Read yesterday’s journal entry. Reflect: Did I leave out any thoughts when I reflected on my day? How can I adjust my layout to prompt deeper thought and reflection?

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What layout or components do you rely on when journaling? I would love to hear what you do. Leave a comment, and let’s start a conversation.

Thank you for reading. Keep on writing!

Until next time,

✍️ Susan

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📸I love adding visual interest to my journal. The same is true for my newsletters. Each week will feature a picture I have taken corresponding with the month the edition is published, unless otherwise noted. I’ve taken daily pictures since 2020. I have many to share!

📰From The Pen’s Nib is my second newsletter. My first, Take Pen to Paper, is about gratitude and the good in life. If you haven’t seen it, check it out. It may be for you.