Today's not just the first day of Fall, but it's also Dear Diary Day. Rather than publish my memoirs here, I thought I'd sample some historical and present-day journals that went from spiral notebook to bound book.
Source: Flickr User incurable_hippie
Whether you're returning to school or not this Fall, it always pays to have pencil and paper near at hand. Who knows when you might be struck by a flash of genius? I know that I always keep a notebook in my bag to jot down ideas about home decorating, a post for CasaSugar, or the plot for the great American novel. Whatever your writing habits may be, you can start your day's notes in style by carrying this To Do List Notebook ($6.50) from Brookline Street Studio. Inspired by the artist's collection of vintage, 1940s Dick-and-Jane flashcards, the covers are letterpress-printed with an antique, treadle-operated press using soy inks and 100 percent recycled cardstock.
For more of my favorite pencils and notebooks, read more
If you were put in a situation like this, how would you handle it?
You recently lost your job and as a result, you've been pretty down and out. Thankfully you have a very supportive and loving live-in boyfriend, but truth be told, you've been craving your alone time. You have found solace in your journal, something you never had time for before, and it's really helping you sort through your feelings. Your boyfriend has noticed that you've been pulling back a little and has responded by being extra clingy, which in turn only irritates you.
The other night, while having dinner at home, your boyfriend made a strange comment — it sounded like he was privy to your personal thoughts only written in your journal. When you asked him point blank if he had read it, he nodded and quietly said yes. As you stormed out of the kitchen, he said that he was left with no other choice since you hadn't been willing to open up to him. You understand that he was just trying to help you during this rough patch, but you're furious — he betrayed your trust and went behind your back. You're going through enough as it is, so how would you handle it?
I'm a big proponent of journaling, but let's face it, keeping a diary was a lot easier as a teen, or pre-teen even, than it is now. When emotions run rampant or you simply need a way to clear your head, writing it all down in a diary can be great solace. A journal will always be an incredibly private possession, so if it were to get into the wrong person's hands, trouble and embarrassment could easily ensue. I think we all know better now, but ladies, tell me, has anyone ever read your diary before?
If you worry too much, you're not alone. But it's important to consider what kinds of worries are plaguing you. Some worries are totally unproductive, meaning that thinking about them won't change anything, and I have some tips for banishing those from your brain. But what about things you actually need to worry about, like paying the bills, making travel plans, whatever?
For these concerns, you need to make sure you're worrying at the right time. Fretting about giving a presentation when you're stuck on the train or trying to plan a dinner party when you should be working just makes you more stressed out. You should manage those worries and compartmentalize them so they don't dominate your day. For some coping mechanisms, read more
Since so many of you admitted to snooping, I thought I'd take it one step further. In this crazy world we all live in, it seems that writing in a journal is one of the only times where we can be truly one with our feelings; to write out our deepest and darkest secrets and innermost thoughts. It should go without saying that someones journal or diary is a very private, sacred possession yet so many people jump at the opportunity to turn the pages of someone else's sentiments. I understand that certain desperate situations call for that invasion of privacy, but tell me, have you ever read a friend's diary out of mere curiosity?
Birthdays can be very public or very personal, depending on how you feel about them. Sure, there is potential for parties, surprises, and presents, but some people would prefer to celebrate silently without being the center of attention.
Whether you're big on birthdays or not, here's an interesting exercise. Every year, devote some time to writing in a journal and reflecting on the past year. Write down new experiences and things you've learned since your last birthday. It could be anything from an eye-opening trip to a funny anecdote or new insight into yourself. Record some favorite moments and reflect on new friends made. Think about what you're thankful for.
When you're done with that, outline what you're looking forward to in the next year. Not only will it make you feel better about turning another year older, but it will also be a valuable and entertaining way to look back on annual milestones.
Do any of you do this or something similar? If not, tell me how you commemorate birthdays below.
Sometimes it's the small things you can do in your own life to enhance your health and most of them take just a few minutes.
If you're looking to stay motivated then keep track of your progress every day. Take just one minute to document your progress, be it by taking a picture of yourself or logging your miles jogged in a journal. However you do it is up to you but it should be something small that will show your gradual (or fast) progress towards your goal. Being able to see progress visually is very motivating and if you don't track it then you might not even notice that you're now running five miles a week, instead of four. Yay!
Need a New Journal? Then head over to Ideal Bite's tip library for some great ideas on finding a cool, clever, and eco-amazing journals to jot down your thoughts in the new year. And for something even more ideal, sign up to receive a tip a day in your inbox!
Whether it’s an event you have to attend for work, a friend's upcoming birthday, or the elusive ingredient you need for dinner, it's often hard to remember exactly what you need when you need it. Enter this lovely purse-size Book of Lists. Not only is it cute, but it'll also help you to remember most anything that needs remembering — so long as you jot it down. The pages are sturdy and the front and back covers are laminated to survive daily wear and tear. This 4-x-8-in. folded notebook is perfect for lovely ladies on the run. There are a variety of lists included in the book, including pages for books to read, birthdays, and anniversaries, passwords, and websites, and much, much more.
