Archived: "Journaling Practice"

This is a living lexicon. Posts are updated with further reflections on the concept. This post is an archived version of the Little Yellow Journal Lexicon item "Journaling Practice". Read the main Lexicon for an up-to-date version.

What is a journaling practice?

Journaling practice is the art of keeping a journal in a way that aligns with your values. Your values will inform the journaling practice. This is why some people prefer a structured rhythm, such as a daily diary, while others are open to sporadic journaling.

A journaling practice is the artfulness in keeping a journal.

Practice Vs. Habit

A journaling practice transcends the label of "habit" because "habit" has a task-oriented connotation, whereas "journaling practice" has spiritual, personal undertones, and a sense of depth and artfulness is carried by the word "practice". "Journaling practice" also implies an ongoing nature that is constant, whereas "journaling habit" is fragmented, broken between journaling sessions.

That aligns with your values?

Yes, aligns with your values (and your worldview). Different people approach the world and themselves differently for different reasons. Some people value productivity and are very goal-oriented, while others are free-flowing. Some people value face-forward honesty while others choose a more compassionate approach to journaling. Some value memory keeping in great detail, while others believe the central point matters and the details are simply minutiae.

Beyond the subject matter, your journaling approach will reflect your essence in its tone, delivery, structure, subjectivity, amount of detail, and other subtleties revealed in language.