by Patricia Bumpass, Contributing Editor
You’ve heard it before.
In order to be a better writer, you have to do what?
Write, write, and write some more.
Typically, we think of journaling as writing about the daily happenings in our lives.
But the reality is that journaling can help you increase your writing practice and become better at writing.
If you are not sure how to build a writing practice and therefore, become a better writer, here are five ways to use your journal to not only shape that practice but to become the writer you want to be.
1. Make the Commitment.
Let’s face it, it’s easier said than done to start a regular writing habit.
Often life gets in the way so we have to make the commitment to building a writing practice that won’t over tax our already busy schedules and lives.
Write this commitment down either on the first page or inside cover of your journal (i.e. “Every day during my lunch hour at work I will write for 30 minutes using my favorite purple pen without fail.”).
Once you make the commitment to your practice, you’ll feel better each time you meet your goal.
Besides, your conscience will beat you up for missing a session.
2. Carry Your Journal with You at all Times.
This is easier if you carry an electronic journal, but it can also be done if you use pen and paper.
Purchase a small notebook and label it with your name and the word Journal (i.e. Sue’s Journal).
A simple composition book from a big-box store or a fancy journal from your favorite book or office supply store will do.
It can have a string to tie it together or not.
There are also various electronic journals available if you have an iPad or smartphone.
The way you keep your journal is completely up to you.
The important point is to have it available to record your thoughts at any moment throughout your day.
3. Do a Brain Dump.
Take out your pen and paper.
Or open up your favorite software program.
Set a timer for 10-15 minutes (or longer) and just free write.
Let the thoughts and ideas flow without lifting your hand from the paper.
Complete sentences aren’t required and what you write doesn’t have to make sense.
It doesn’t matter if you write longhand, shorthand or on your computer or other electronic device.
The goal here is to get those random thoughts from your mind onto paper.
The thoughts that are consuming you and keeping you from getting the work done now have a place to live.
No longer cluttering up your mind.
No judgment, no holding back.
4. Use Writing Prompts.
Having trouble finding something to write about?
Do a google search for creative writing prompts and use your journal to create short stories and/or characters.
Outline your chapters and characters in your journal.
Not finding inspiration in any of the creative writing prompts?
Review older journal entries and pick up the thread of a possible story there.
5. Never Give Up…Don’t Ever Give Up.
In an ESPN speech before his death, Jimmy Valvano, Head Coach for the 1993 NC State basketball team, encouraged those listening to “never give…don’t ever give up” on their dreams or what they want in life.
This sentiment applies to your journaling as well.
The kids need shuttling to various activities.
Dinner has to get to the table.
Laundry needs to be washed and put away.
Our attention is taken up by the busyness of life.
It becomes easier to give up on our dreams and follow whatever path life takes us on.
But, if we are to become successful, we must continue to fight to get the writing done.
Your journal is a safe place to do just that.
Journals aren’t just for recording your daily activities anymore.
They can help you grow your writing habit and become a better writer.
So, go ahead.
Grab your journal (you have it at your fingertips right?) and free write until your fingers feel like they’re falling off.
Use someone else’s idea for a story and make it your own.
Dust off that old notebook or purchase an inspiring new one.
Put these five ideas on using your journal to use and build your practice.
Be the writer you’re meant to be.
About Patricia Bumpass
Patricia (Pat) Bumpass (www.patriciabumpass.com) is a North Carolina-based freelance writer. Pat enjoys writing and has journaled since she was a teenager. She lives with her son who is blessed with Autism.
