Q: I'm having an awful time getting started with a journal (several failed attempts over several years). I am ready to try again with the new year but am still a little unsure of the concept. Is there an "Idiot's Guide" to journaling or resources where a middle-aged, deep thinker can get some assistance or support? Thank you. - Michael

A: One of the easiest and most freeing journaling technique to "get the flow going", is to write letters. So start off by writing a letter to a real person, or an imaginary person and tell him/her all about this last year. (Now this can be sent..and I call these journal to journal letters... or it can be the entry you write to review 2002.) Try it... and see if this is a technique to get you writing and sharing your life with yourself and with others.

Q: Is keeping a journal like keeping a diary?

A: Yes and no. Usually keeping a diary is like keeping a daily log. (You know like Dear Diary, Today) There are hundreds of journaling techniques to assist you, the journaler, to explore/discover and better understand yourself.

In my Journaling For Joy book and workbook I do explain hundreds of techniques and writing exercises so if you don't have order by calling 1-800-227-3371.
 

 Q: My worst fear is that my journal may fall into the hands of someone else and be read. Is this a common concern and how do you make sure that doesn't happen?

A: This is without a doubt the biggest concern most people have! My recommendation to make sure you lock your journal in a safe place and also ask others to honor your privacy. I write something like.."Please do not read without my permission. Thanks, Joyce" in the front of each new journal.

I actually have some of my very first journals stored in boxes with the following words on the outside. "Burn when I die." Of course, I may never know if this request is honored and it makes me laugh to think about the reaction of the person who finds them all!

Q: What do you say to someone (me) who says, "I'd keep a journal but I don't have anything interesting to say."?

A: Let me ask you a question, can you think of several reasons you'd like to keep a journal? If yes, then make a list and start writing…remembering the way you write does NOT matter. Just journal! If your answer is no, to the question, then begging by making a list of boring things in your life an start there. (Are you smiling? I hope so! There are no rules...and you certainly don't need to judge yourself. Go ahead try and let me know what happens! `