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Writing your thoughts to gain clarity and for later use
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Decide on your format Physical journals are very inexpensive and can have enough durability to last several decades if treated well. Online journals are free to set up and have the advantage of log-in access from multiple locations, but you may not want to be limited to just your computer.
If you write in a more professional style, you may be able to generate an income from your experiences using a blog. This is done through gaining advertisers and affiliates that pay you based on page views and ad clicks. Begin with free writing This is a stage where you're not worried about grammar and structure as much as ideas. If you're in an emotional situation, just write what's on your heart. Don't worry about it being perfect.
If you're wanting to begin a journal for later use in a book, start with a current event or important memories you've never recorded before. Don't just think about sights and sounds but also the senses of smell, taste, and touch.
If you need help on getting started, you can also search for free personal journal prompts online. Some prompts are not so much about events as learning an aspect about yourself, such as what you would do if you suddenly were given a large sum of money. Others can help you draw out details from your memories that may not be fresh on your mind. Establish a daily habit Don't make it a chore, but if you write for at least a few minutes a day it can become a natural habit over time. This will greatly help you if you intend to branch into writing short stories and books. Refine your writing As you grow, you'll start paying attention to more technical elements of writing and incorporate them into your journal over time. This is a process and not something you should have to force. Save and use physical momentos for your entries Some examples of these include movie and concert tickets, photos, postcards--anything can help trigger your memory again once you see it. If you're using an online journal or blog, you can accomplish this by scanning the objects and uploading the digital files. Revisit your older journals every few years This will help you gain an understanding of how much you've grown as a writer and a person. Without doing damage to the originals, you can also write in the margins any notes you have as you reflect on the entries. Related links
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Things Needed Computer with Internet access (for blog or online journal) or physical journal with pen A comfortable place to write Tips & Warnings  If you plan on writing about very personal issues, remember to keep your journal in a secure location. If you like the convenience of writing online but want to keep your writing private, some websites have a "for your eyes only" privacy feature that is similar to having the journal in a permanent draft/unpublished mode. Writing.com is one example of this.
Other guides by this author
Christina Baldwin, Author, on the Joys of Journal Writing
Author Christina Baldwin talks on journal writing and her books on writing and story--including some writing prompts to get you going and keep you going page by page.
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How-To Guide Rating: 89
