When is a Journaler like a Painter?

Guest Blog Post by Deonne Kahler

I’ve got a confession: I can’t paint my way out of a paper bag. (Well, I’m seriously talented with a roller and tray, but I don’t think that counts.) I’ve always envied visual artists, with their smudged smocks and intense focus, until I realized journalers aren’t that different. It’s all about tools and setting and giving yourself the gift of taking your art – journaling – seriously.

So if you’ve been writing on half-used steno pads with leaky pens at a cluttered desk tucked in the corner of the spare bedroom, stop. (An extreme example, but you get the picture.) You deserve just the right tools and space to write in because your words count. They absolutely do.

Whether you’re jotting ideas for a novel, complaining about your crabby boss, or analyzing last night’s dream, make it fun and special. It’s the only me-time many of us get, so why not make it great?

There’s no right way to journal and that’s the beauty of it – the experience should be as unique as you are. Turn off the phone and email and journal like a painter would.

You need a canvas. What’s your favorite? A leather-bound journal, big lay-flat notebook, diary with a beautiful illustrated cover, or guided journal with prompts? Do you like blank pages, lined, or graph? None of this has to be expensive; in fact it’s better when it’s not. There’s great joy in filling up a journal then cracking open a fresh new one, but if it’s high-priced you may hold back on doodles and notes and wild ideas because each page feels like gold. And you, as an artist, should never hold back.

…a brush. Pen or pencil, take your pick, but whatever you choose, make sure it moves easily across the paper. I love a gorgeous fountain pen as much as the next guy, but it can be heavy and scratchy. My pick is a medium-point roller ball – light and smooth.

…and a studio. I journal in an overstuffed green chair in my living room, but maybe you prefer your four-poster bed, sitting at an antique desk, or rocking on the porch. Wherever you feel calm and comfortable is best. Candles add a little magic, even during the day, and music (without lyrics, since they tend to distract) can get the thoughts flowing. A beverage is a nice touch – tea, coffee, and seltzer with lime are good, and wine or a cocktail can loosen things up even further. (But use the latter in moderation if you want your words to make any sense in the morning.)

What’s your favorite way to journal? Share your thoughts below!

DEONNE KAHLER is a writer, photographer, road tripper, and mom to Sam the Wonder Pup. Her work has been published in anthologies, online, and in print. She also owns a business, JournalsAndNotepads.com, and is obsessed with paper products, National Parks, small towns, and quirk. Her current journal has a drawing of a devilish little girl on the front.