You might call it a planner, a task-keeper, a thought jotter, or yes, even a diary. However you reference it, this handheld log is a journal in some form. Many use it to take notes from books, meetings, and training, while others use it to compile goals, lists, and to-dos. Others tend to write and reflect. But many love to “bullet,” a combination of all the above and much more. I challenge you to find someone who doesn’t keep a journal of one kind or another.

1. Get Your Act Together. The most obvious use of a journal is to keep track of things. What’s on your to-do list; goals, big or small; appointments; and meeting notes are just of a few of the collectives you can record and reference later. While it’s great to take notes during meetings on your laptop, finding them later can sometimes be challenging. Old school is cool, and handwritten notes can easily be referenced by date. Also, it’s polite. Think about your own experience. When someone is pecking away on their laptop, it not only distracts the speaker, but it is a distraction for the notetaker, as one can easily be lured into reading emails and scrolling social media.
2. Discover Your “Ah-Ha.” I’ve always been a fan of journaling and have a stack of them to prove it. This year I’ve committed to journaling every day and with some exceptions, I did pretty well. And just through the written word, my written word of all things, I found some amazing ideas buried in there. Whether ones I’ve pocketed for later review, or goals yet to be acted upon, I’m always referencing my current, and archived, journals for purpose-filled inspiration.
3. Collect Your Memories. Photo albums aren’t the only way to capture memories. Try journaling. Writing down what happened that day, stories and encounters, travels and experiences, and happy accounts of time with friends and family. Not only can you tack in souvenirs—like a map, travel brochures, pub coasters, nature tokens—but it’s a great place to save related photos. I have a friend whose journal looks more like an illustrated scrapbook than a diary, and it’s a treasure she can share.
4. Unclog Your Brain. “Unclogging” or brain dumping by journaling (yes, there are much better words for it) is a great way get unstuck. Whether you are mind-mapping or sketching out the next chapter, removing the jumble of words from your mind is therapeutic. It’s a lot to expect anyone to remember everything, so it’s important to have a place to jot ideas, inspiration, actions, thoughts, and anything you need to get off your mind so you’re clear and focused. But one of the most important benefits of journaling is peace of mind. It’s a proven tool for lessoning anxiety, depression, and working through any number of mental illnesses and personal setbacks.
5. Capture Your Wisdom. They say when the student is ready the teacher will appear. Whether you’re taking a class, listening to a training, attending a conference, learning from a book, or talking with a peer, there’s plenty of wisdom exchanged. A journal is designed to capture said pearls. Experts agree, writing slows down the brain and allows you to retain more of what you learn. And having it all neatly captured in your journal means you can review it time and again with new takeaways.
6. Write Your Book. Writing your own story begins with journaling. That’s how memoirs are born. And telling your story through journaling not only liberates you but may also help you share valuable life lessons with others in need. Of course, if you write other kinds of non-fiction or fiction, this is a great place to capture ideas on the goal. Ever find yourself waiting on others? Pull out your journal and write that book!

Here are a few references on the power of journaling:

• 8 Ways Journaling Improves Your Mental Health
• Pen, Paper, Power! Five Benefits of Journal Writing
• Why Men Should Keep a Journal 
• 3 Unexpected Benefits of Keeping a Bullet Journal 
• The Power of Journaling for Wisdom and Connection 
• Can Bullet Journaling Save You?