Tips and prompts for ‘one line a day’ journaling
I have been keeping a ‘one line a day’ journal for more than three years now, and it has become a lovely, simple evening ritual. Even when I think I have nothing to say, it feels constructive to sit for a few minutes and wrap up the day by reflecting on it, however briefly.
My journal is not themed or focused. I tend to record the good things and the way I generally feel, but it could be whatever comes to mind. But there are many ways you could use this kind of journaling, either with the same theme each day, or with a mix to match your mood or add variety through the week.
10 ideas and prompts for daily journaling
1. Gratitude
Gratitude journaling is perfect for a ‘one line a day’ approach. Record what you are grateful for each day. It could be a list of several things, big and small. or a sentence describing one thing relevant to your day.
2. A favourite moment
Describe a moment from your day that felt especially precious, joyful or peaceful. It could be big or small, from a celebration to a cup of tea. Searching for something to include can help you feel more positive even when you’ve had a bad day.
3. An achievement
Think of something you have achieved, whether it’s a big goal or milestone, getting through your to-do list or cooking a new recipe – or even just getting through the day.
4. Connection
Perhaps you met with a friend, had a meeting with colleagues, waved at a neighbour or exchanged comments on a social media post – think back to the ways you have connected with other people.
5. Thought for the day
Forget Radio 4: make up your own thought for the day based on what happened. It could be inspirational or silly, from philosophical observations about human behaviour to the importance of remembering to carry an umbrella on a rainy day.
6. Something you’ve watched/heard/read
Make a note of any article, book chapter or quote, podcast episode or TV programme from your day. Add a thought about what you’ve taken from it.
7. Something you’ve learnt
We all learn something every day, whether it’s a new fact, a big life lesson or something about ourselves. What is your lesson from the day?
8. Something beautiful
What did you see today that was beautiful? Perhaps the sky as you opened the blinds, someone’s smile, or a photograph on your Instagram feed. Use it as a prompt to notice beauty in everyday life.
9. A mood or feeling
Record your prevailing mood from the day, or how you are feeling as you sit down to write. Stop and reflect on it, revel in it if it’s good, or let it go on the page if it isn’t.
10. An intention for tomorrow
Set an intention for the next day. How do you want to feel? How do you want to approach the day? Is there a specific thing you want to make time for? Is there something you missed today that you want to make up for tomorrow? Commit it to the page.
If you need a new journal for your short daily practice, have a look at my miniature books and miniature journal sets. They have just the right amount of space on each page for a sentence or two.
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