Build a consistent journaling habit with this 2-minute template.
I often start strong with ALL of the things I want to journal, but then it doesn’t last. I set myself up to fail with too many requirements to get through, and as soon as I hit a busy day, I decide it will take too much time and end up throwing the baby out with the bath water.
Instead, here’s a baseline to start from, and then any other journal prompts can be a bonus on top if/when you choose to. Happy #journaling!
You need 2 things to be successful:
- a clear goal
- consistent action
Consistent action results in data, which helps you either achieve your goal, or refine your strategy.
Use this simple, low-effort system to stay clear on your goals, avoid distractions, and achieve faster results.
Here’s to more mental freedom AND faster growth!
The 2-min Journal Method
1. Set Priorities
Max 3 in one day.
- Priority 1
- Priority 2
- Priority 3
2. Add Tasks
Max. 2 tasks/priority, unless you only have 1-2 priorities for today, in which case add up to 3 tasks)
- Priority 1:
- Item 1:
- Item 2:
- Item 3:
- Priority 2:
- Item 1:
- Item 2:
- Item 3:
- Priority 3:
- Item 1:
- Item 2:
3. Gratitude
Generate daily positivity + happiness through gratitude.
- Today, I am grateful for x…
- and also y…
- as well as z…
BONUS: Minor Tasks
Keep note of additional low-effort tasks that you can pull from in pockets of excess time/energy.
- Task 1
- Task 2
- Task 3
- Task 4
- Task 5
BTS: Jen’s 2-min
If, like me, it helps to see an example – here’s mine!
P1: Coaching Client Care
- Respond to client Voxer messages
- 30-min brainstorming going above-and-beyond
P2: Coaching Bizdev
- Batch 3 instagram posts
- Draft newsletter email
P3: Afghanistan work
- 1-hour replying to emails
- 30-min situational awareness (news, slack)
Grateful for: being in China, quality time with my brother, prevalence of oat-milk lattes in Shanghai
Minor Tasks
- Book SHA-HKG flight
- Book LA hotel
- Message new VA
- Taobao gift for niece