Tools for Transformation Tuesday: Line a Day

I have always loved the idea of journaling. As a young girl, I would browse the bookstore for the most beautifully decorated blank book and choose the perfect pen to record my hopes, dreams, and observations. In later years, I graduated to the various shapes, sizes, and colors of the Moleskine collection. Despite my most ardent intentions, however, my journal keeping was never very consistent. I rarely found a routine that provided the necessary space to reflect, and I would inevitably grow bored with the banal act of listing the days events.

When my daughter was born, I was determined to capture as many memories as I could, and I faithfully noted the highlights of each day in a journal reserved for her. As time passed and our lives became more full, this daily discipline slipped, and I found myself reverting to a weekly laundry list report of our activities. Frustrated and wanting more, I was inspired to learn of one friend's approach to capturing his children's days: he has committed to writing one line each day for each of his children. It might be something as simple as an amusing phrase or anecdote. He may relay the report of a doctor during a routine check-up. He might share an observation about the world in which they are living. By keeping the entries simple and brief, he ensures he is consistent. As a result - several years into his children's lives - he has maintained the practice unfailingly.

The line a day approach can be useful not only for parents who want to keep a record about or for their children. Perhaps you are a busy executive who wants to capture the rare moments of ease and leisure that fuel you and remind yourself life is about more than work. Maybe you are increasingly aware of how quickly you are aging and simply want a way to slow down and appreciate time. Whatever your motivation, you can provide yourself a greater likelihood of success by starting small.

What project are you reluctant to start - or unable to finish - because it seems too laborious? Give yourself permission to take things one day - or one line - at a time, and see what happens...