Have you ever thought about keeping a journal but felt overwhelmed by the idea of writing long, thoughtful entries every day? You’re not alone! Many of us love the idea of preserving our memories but struggle to find the time or energy to commit to it consistently. That’s where a “One Line a Day” journal comes in.
I want to share how this simple yet meaningful practice has helped me and countless others capture life’s moments, boost happiness, and stay present. Plus, I’ll give you tips, tricks, and prompts to help you start your own one-line-a-day journey.
What Is a One-Line-a-Day Journal?
A one-line-a-day journal is exactly what it sounds like: a space to jot down just one sentence each day. Think of it as a low-pressure way to reflect on your day, record a memory, or express a feeling. Whether you use it to celebrate a small win, document a special moment, or simply vent, this style of journaling is quick, easy, and incredibly rewarding.
I started my own one-sentence journal years ago when I realized how little I remembered about my day-to-day life. I didn’t have the discipline (or patience!) for traditional journaling, but I knew I could manage one sentence. And guess what? That single sentence each day quickly added up to a collection of memories I now cherish.
Why Keep a One-Line-a-Day Journal?
This small daily habit offers big benefits. Here are just a few:
Boost happiness: Reflecting on positive moments, achievements, or connections helps keep them fresh in your mind and reinforces gratitude.
Spot patterns: Over time, you’ll notice themes and patterns in your life, like what truly brings you joy or what habits you’d like to change.
Preserve memories: Even the smallest details become treasures when you look back at them months or years later.
Feel more present: Taking a moment to reflect on your day helps you slow down and appreciate the little things.
One of my favorite parts? Reading past entries and seeing what I was doing on this day a year or even five years ago. It’s like a little time capsule that reminds me how much I’ve grown and all the experiences I’ve had.
Tips for Starting and Sticking with It
Starting a one-line-a-day journal is easy, but keeping the habit going takes a little intentionality. Here are some tips to make it fun and sustainable:
Use abbreviations: Save space and add a touch of privacy by using initials or short phrases for names and common activities.
Keep it short and sweet: You don’t need to write a novel! A simple “Jogged. Did calligraphy. Had coffee with Mom” works perfectly.
Include feelings: After noting an activity or event, add a word or two about how it made you feel. For example, “Had coffee with Mom – heartwarming.”
Don’t overthink it: There’s no right or wrong way to do this. Write what comes naturally, even if it’s mundane or messy.
Protect your journal: Since you’ll be using it for years, consider making or buying a cover to keep it safe from wear and tear.
Reconnect with memories: As you fill out your journal, take time to revisit old entries. It’s a great way to reconnect with people, places, and feelings.
Prompts to Get You Started
If you’re unsure what to write about, here are some ideas to inspire you:
Gratitude: What’s one thing you’re grateful for today?
Favorite moment: What moment brought you joy, peace, or laughter?
Achievement: Did you accomplish something big or small today?
Connection: Who did you connect with, and how did it make you feel?
Thought for the day: What insight or reflection stood out to you?
Something you learned: What new fact, lesson, or realization did you encounter?
Beauty in the ordinary: What was something beautiful you noticed today?
Mood or feeling: How are you feeling as you write?
Media you enjoyed: Did you read, watch, or listen to something interesting?
Tomorrow’s intention: What’s one thing you’d like to focus on or accomplish tomorrow?
The Joy of Looking Back
One of the most rewarding aspects of this journaling practice is revisiting your past entries. A year from now, you might read about a funny thing your child said, a milestone you reached, or even a tough day you overcame. It’s a reminder of life’s ebbs and flows and how far you’ve come.
Start Today
The beauty of a one-line-a-day journal is that you can begin anytime. There’s no need to wait for January 1 or a significant milestone—just grab a notebook, pick a date, and start writing. It’s a small commitment with a big payoff, and I promise you’ll be glad you did.
Do you already keep a one-line-a-day journal or feel inspired to start? I’d love to hear how you’re using yours or what ideas you have for making it your own. Let’s share and learn from each other as we build this joyful habit together.
About Mari Van Meter
Mari Van Meter is an award-winning Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices American Heritage, leading the Fly Home Dragonfly team. Specializing in digital and traditional marketing, Mari focuses on NW Suburban Chicago, especially Arlington Heights. She offers exclusive off-market properties and guarantees satisfaction for buyers and sellers.
Active in her community and at Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist in Palatine, Mari supports local businesses and champions diversity, equity, and inclusion.
For expert real estate guidance, contact Mari at 630-267-1808 or schedule a discovery call at calendly.com/marivanmeter/discovery-call.
