How to Journal (Like a Philosopher)

Summary

This video script offers a simple three-step guide to starting a journaling practice, emphasizing finding a preferred journal and writing instrument, and making writing a daily habit. It addresses the common question of what to write about by suggesting a structured approach: recount a notable event, reflect on personal achievements and areas for improvement, and consider how the event fits into the larger narrative of one's life. The script also delves into the philosophical underpinnings of journaling as a means of self-improvement and constructing a coherent personal narrative, aligning with the views of philosophers who see storytelling as a fundamental human trait.

Takeaways

• 📓 Start Journaling: The process of starting a journaling habit involves three simple steps: choosing a journal, finding a preferred writing instrument, and making a habit of writing regularly.
• ✍️ Overcoming Writer's Block: When struggling to write, a reliable structure can be followed, which includes writing about a notable event, something done well, and areas for improvement.
• 📅 Reflecting on Daily Events: Journaling should include a factual account of a significant event from the day or the previous day, helping to focus on notable occurrences.
• 🏆 Celebrating Achievements: A journal entry should also highlight something the writer is proud of, such as an achievement or a success, to foster a sense of accomplishment.
• 🚫 Identifying Failures: It's important to recognize and write about what did not go well, using it as an opportunity to identify problem areas and areas for self-improvement.
• 🔍 Analyzing the Bigger Picture: After detailing events and personal growth, the writer should reflect on how the event fits into the larger narrative of their life, seeking coherence and internal logic.
• 📚 Philosophical Perspective: The act of journaling is tied to the philosophical view that humans are storytelling beings, constructing narratives about themselves to find meaning and coherence in life.
• 🧠 Active Self-Authorship: Journaling is a way to take an active role in authoring one's life story, moving beyond habitual living and reflecting intentionally on personal experiences.
• 📖 Ethical Consideration: Journaling can be seen as a practice of ethical self-reflection, aligning with ancient philosophical thought that emphasizes the importance of understanding one's life as a whole for achieving happiness.
• 🌟 Personal Growth: The script suggests that journaling is not just about documenting life but also about personal growth, using the practice to actively shape one's narrative and work towards self-improvement.
• 📝 Consistent Practice: The key to successful journaling is making it a regular practice, which over time can provide insights and a deeper understanding of one's life journey.

Q & A

What are the three basic steps to start journaling according to the transcript?

The three basic steps to start journaling are: 1) Get a journal that you like; 2) Find a writing instrument that you enjoy using, such as a fountain pen; 3) Make a habit of writing, either daily or when you feel like it.

What is the recommended structure to follow when journaling if you're struggling to write?

The recommended structure includes writing a paragraph about an event that happened that day or the day before, a paragraph about something you did well, a paragraph about what did not go well, and then reflecting on the bigger picture to fit the event into a larger narrative about your life.

What is the purpose of writing about an event that happened during the day in your journal?

Writing about an event serves as a factual account of something notable in your life, allowing you to reflect on and document significant moments or experiences.

Why is it important to write about something you did well in your journal?

Writing about achievements or successes helps you to recognize and feel proud of your accomplishments, reinforcing positive habits and behaviors.

How does writing about what did not go well in your journal serve as an opportunity for self-improvement?

It allows you to identify problem areas, besetting vices, or bad habits that you want to improve or break, providing a space for introspection and planning for change.

What is the significance of reflecting on the bigger picture when journaling?

Reflecting on the bigger picture helps you to find internal logic and coherence in your life story, allowing you to construct a narrative that gives meaning to your experiences.

What philosophical perspective does the speaker mention regarding persons as storytelling beings?

The philosophical perspective mentioned is that persons are primarily storytelling beings, constructing and telling a narrative about themselves, which is a key aspect of self-identity and coherence.

How does journaling relate to the concept of 'making sense of one's life as a whole'?

Journaling provides a reflective practice that allows you to consider your life as a whole, examining the development and direction of your life, which is essential for personal satisfaction and happiness.

What is the connection between journaling and the ancient philosophical concept of eudaimonia?

Journaling is connected to eudaimonia, or human flourishing, as it involves reflective work on one's life, which ancient philosophers like Aristotle considered central to achieving happiness.

Why does the speaker suggest taking an active role in the construction of your life story through journaling?

Taking an active role in constructing your life story through journaling allows you to be intentional about your narrative, breaking routine and habit, and shaping a more meaningful and coherent life experience.

What is the recommended approach if you are struggling to get started with journaling?

The recommended approach is to follow the format of writing about an event from your day, something you're proud of, areas for improvement, and then placing it in the larger context of your life to create a personal narrative.