How to Finally Use That Beautiful Journal

Have you ever purchased or been gifted a journal that was so beautiful that you were afraid to write in it? Or, maybe you didn’t know what to write in it?  If you silently said “yes” to either of these questions, then read on.

The Power of Empty Space

A journal is like a cup, a box, a container.  Each of these items is a structure that can hold something, but their usefulness lives in the empty space.

A cup is not useful unless it is filled with something:  tea, a small plant, bracelets.  A box is not useful unless it contains something:  clothing, books, toys.  Similarly, your journal is not useful if it’s sitting empty on your bookshelf or desk or in a drawer.  It becomes useful when you start writing or creating art in it.

Everyone loves new things, and owning a fresh, blank journal is exciting—sometimes intimidating. The smell, the crisp, untouched pages, and the feel of the paper keep you from wanting to destroy the newness.

But what good is the journal if you’re not using it?  Why let it lie around to be admired like a trophy?  Your journal won’t be useful unless you use your journal.

Creative Ways to Fill Your Pages

Now, think about your life and how you might put that journal to good use. 

• Memory keeping – Do you like to keep photos, documents, or memories of vacations and celebrations? Glue in photos, ticket stubs, etc. and write about your experience.
• Private processing- Do you need a place to vent privately? Your journal is a judgment-free place to vent, work through challenges, and give yourself props for small wins.
• Curated collections – Do you like to collect things, like recipes, books, quotes, poems? Having a dedicated place to record these treasures can be invaluable.
• Creative play – Do you wish you could paint or draw? Your journal is the perfect place to begin practicing.
• Legacy writing – Do you have a story to tell that could help someone else? Use your journal to document personal experiences, family history, stories, and traditions to pass along to future generations.

It’s Okay to Pivot

These are just a few suggestions to help you decide how you will use your journal. You may think of another use for it.  Whatever you decide to keep in your journal, remember that it is okay to change your mind.  For instance, you might begin writing in your journal, then decide you want to use it as a sketchbook instead.  Or, you might start using it as a project tracker, then decide to use it to capture recipes. 

Whatever you decide, it’s your book.  And, believe it or not, your journal will be even more beautiful once it contains your handwriting and/or artwork.  A well-loved, slightly beat-up journal with ink and colorful pages is a lot more interesting than a blank one sitting on a shelf.

One more thing…

If you are still afraid to use that beautiful journal you already have, grab an inexpensive notebook or composition book.  It will feel less precious as you begin writing.