Three ways keeping a journal helps your career
The rush of the modern world hardly rations out any time for reflection. However, a dedicated hour of reflection, and documenting/recording your thoughts and observations (of yourself and the world around you) are mandatory, on a daily basis, if one desires to make the most of their life (both personal and professional).
Here are three ways writing down the minutes of your day can help your career.
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Helps in organising thoughts
Keeping a journal will make you pay attention to the details (even the smallest of them) that make up your day. You would be more mindful of your actions. People who keep journals are well-prepared to face situations with calm and composure, because reflecting on and noting down thoughts helps in foreseeing and planning the future course of action. When the mind is organised, the actions are confident.
Helps in seeing patterns
Keeping a journal is only half of the formula for a bright career. The other half is diligently reading your journals to see patterns, or flaws in your career path. Your notes will help you in taking stock of your professional journey periodically. It is like a GPS that shows you your location in your career path. Once you get the bird's eye view, you will be able to plan better, correct flaws if any, and navigate the competitive landscape efficiently.
Life coach and author Jackee Holder swears by her journals for the same reason. She says, “You’re also able to see the patterns that get in the way of personal and professional growth and healthy relationships with yourself and others. By becoming mindful with what you are discovering, you can move yourself from knowing into a doing state.”
Helps in measuring growth
Keeping a journal helps in monitoring growth. By recording your contributions/actions aimed at set objectives, you will be able to assess the quality of your decisions and actions along the journey towards achieving your dreams.
According to an article on lifehacker.com, “Keeping a work diary can serve as a track record of mistakes and successes. That written record can come in handy later when you're feeling down, but they can also help you right your personal ship when you're feeling lost.”
A journal is a mirror of your mind. It presents an accurate report of how you think and act. It provides the information bits that, when strung together, highlight obscure and oft-hidden patterns of your behaviour. The clearer you are able to see your mind, the more certainty you will have in charting out a desirable career path.