More Journal Topics to Start the Year

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There are a few times of the year when people tend to start journaling for the first time or to get back into the process after a break – when they are dealing with something difficult, near the beginning of a quarter, and at the beginning of the year. If you are planning to start journaling as part of your new start this January, I have provided a few additional things you can write about.

Your New Years’ Annual Goals

Naturally, the first step to journaling at the beginning of the year is to write about your goals for the year. They don’t all have to be huge goals — I think some of these would have been called resolutions in the past. I am not using that term right now because I think all can be considered goals.

Some of these goals can be the 1-3 things that you have been wanting to do but haven’t really gotten the right kind of motivation. Think of those things you keep saying you will do someday but never do. It could be ending a bad habit like drinking too much caffeine or biting your fingernails. Maybe it has to do with wanting to finally start the manuscript you keep talking about.

Either way, write it all down in your journal and really set your sights on what you want to accomplish this year.

Areas of Your Life to Improve

You can also write about different areas of your life that you want to improve, such as your health, your finances or work, spending time with loved ones, being more active in your community, or starting a new project. These are the more general improvements you want to make, as opposed to your super-specific goals for the year.

New Habits and Routines You Want to Try

Are there habits you feel like you are slacking on, or do you want to start a new routine that serves you better? Your journal is a great place to get started.

It might be a good idea to first write about your routines now, then kind of pinpoint either what you want to add, or areas of your daily routines that don’t really serve a purpose and no longer fit in with your current lifestyle or your future goals.

Focus on Growth and Self-Improvement

Journaling is an amazing resource when it comes to personal growth. It really allows you to become a better, healthier, more productive person. Use this time to write about how you want to grow and improve this year. Do you want to read more self-help books? Are you interested in learning something new by taking courses? Do you want to develop a more positive mindset? Really focus on this and write it all down in your journal.

It’s not too late to grab a 2020 planner!

Several colors and formats are available!

Life: The Reboot at KDP

Loving Life — The Reboot!

Dominique

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16 Comments

Dominique

January 13, 2020 at 9:48 pm Reply

Hello!

Mumfromdownunder

January 16, 2020 at 12:21 pm Reply

Great ideas for journaling

Megan

January 14, 2020 at 6:30 am Reply

I got a great new planner that has spots for weekly goals, habit tracking, action steps, etc. Has definitely been helpful so far this year. Plus – I love to read self help books!

Dominique

January 14, 2020 at 9:59 am Reply

Sounds like you are ready for the year! I am making a few edits to my plans already– everything is flexible! Have a wonderful day!

Luna S

January 14, 2020 at 10:03 am Reply

I enjoy journaling, all of these are great ideas. I find keeping lists of things helps make sure I keep on track.

Ashli Ferguson

January 14, 2020 at 10:13 am Reply

Really great tips!!! I don’t journal but I bet people who do love these ideas!

Joanna

January 14, 2020 at 2:24 pm Reply

I need to start writing my planner more often. I find it much more easier to achieve my daily tasks when I write them down in the morning.

aisasami

January 15, 2020 at 10:24 am Reply

Thanks for the awesome tips. I have restarted daily journaling about a month ago and I have a spot for monthly goals too. And working on myself a lot through journaling.