If you are sitting with a blank page and thinking “what on earth should I write in my diary?”, you are far from alone. It is the most frequently asked question when you start journaling.
Short answer: You can write about your day, your thoughts, your feelings, your goals or very small things from your everyday life. There is no right or wrong way to keep a diary. The most important thing is that you get started and find a format that feels natural to you.
In this guide, you will get concrete ideas, a simple way to start and inspiration you can return to again and again.
What can you write in a diary
If you want an easy start, you can choose one direction at a time:
- what you have done during the day
- what you are thinking about right now
- what you feel
- what you are looking forward to
- what is occupying your mind
The most important thing is not what you write, but that you write. Consistency beats perfection.
10 concrete things you can write in your diary
If you need inspiration, you can use this list:
- what has made you happy today
- what has been difficult today
- something you are proud of
- Is there anything you would like to get better at?
- a thought you can't shake
- what you are dreaming about right now
- what you are grateful for
- Something you learned
- How has your day been
- what you need right now
What do you write in a diary as a beginner
If you are new, the most important thing is to keep it simple and remove expectations.
You can start with:
- to write 3-5 lines about your day
- to answer one question from the list above
- writing without editing or thinking too much
If you want the right notebook to get started, you can view our selection of Notebooks and journals.
What to write in a reflection journal
If you would like to use your diary to get to know yourself better, you can focus on reflection:
- what did I react to today and why
- what gave me energy and what drained me
- what could I do differently next time
If you want to go even deeper, you can use journaling prompts. See our article with 50 journal page ideas.
Can a diary also be creative
Yes. A diary doesn't just have to be text.
You can also:
- draw small elements
- use stickers
- create lists and overviews
- decorate the pages
See our selection of stickers and washi tape.
How to get started
If you want to make it easy for yourself, do it like this:
- choose a notebook
- Choose a pen
- write for 5 minutes
- repeat next day
You can find good pens here:
If you are in doubt about choosing a pen, you can read our guide to Which pen is best for journaling.
What if I don't know what to write
Then the best thing you can do is to start with this sentence:
“I don't know what to write, but...”
And then just keep going. It takes the pressure off and helps you get started.
How much and how often should one write
There are no rules, but these rules of thumb work for most people:
- write a little and often
- make it easy to get started
- stop before you lose the will
A short daily habit is better than long, rare sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you write in a diary
You can write about your day, your thoughts, your feelings or your goals. The most important thing is that it makes sense to you.
What do you write in a diary as a beginner
Start simply. Write 3-5 lines about your day, or answer a single question like “what made me happy today”. The most important thing is to get started.
How do you start a diary
Choose a notebook and a pen, set aside 5 minutes, and write without thinking about it too much. Repeat the next day.
Is it healthy to keep a diary
Many people find that it brings calm, clarity and a better understanding of their own thoughts because they get them down on paper.
Should you write every day
No, but making it a habit can help. The most important thing is regularity, not perfection.
