In 2009, I didn’t keep the best journal. Life became “busy,” and I let it slip. This year, I didn’t want to miss out on keeping my personal record. At bedtime on January 1, I was tired and wanted to go to sleep, but I wanted to start the year off right. I compromised: one sentence seemed like a fair trade. The next night, the same process. And the idea stuck—one sentence a day. It’s doable. It helps me evaluate the day. I like it.
Some nights I end up with one sentence, some nights I end up with eight sentences. Generally, it’s around 100 words. Today I realized that in January I ended up with over 3,000 words of personal history. One hundred words a day doesn’t seem like much, but the record adds up quickly. I’m glad I have a snapshot of at least one thought/happening/moment/realization that was important to me each day.
An admirable goal and contribution. All considered, I have maybe five pages of personal history for the last year.
Insightful. I really wanted to be better at recording the small and simple things too. So far I’m at once a week. But I think I’m going to try your idea. Thanks Brittany!
Way to go, Brittany! Even if your writing only one word, you are making your mark and recording your story. Way to go!