Several years ago, in my previous position, I took on the role of Director for the first time. When this new (although temporary position) came a lot more responsibility. For example, new tasks included doing payroll, supervising other employees, and conducting meetings. None of which was a part of my original position.
I knew that what I was about to embark upon would bring new experiences, as well as a fair share of challenges, so I decided to pick up a small notebook and call it my Work Journal. And, guess what? That work journal became my best friend during that three-month period of being Director.
Each day, I would write down any challenges that came my way, as well as possible solutions. What I gained from that experience was the habit of being solution-focused.
From that point on, I never approached any challenge without having thought through possible solutions first. This technique/behavior came in handy on multiple occasions, but more specifically when I had two staff members at each other’s throats and I had to approach the Dean with the situation.
It helped to have already brainstormed possible solutions (creative thinking). Doing this showed that I was ahead of the problem and solution-focused; great attributes for a Director.
So, I noted all of this in my work journal, so that when it came time to update my resume, all I had to do was take a look through my work journal on how I performed during that time, the skills I learned, etc.
With all of this in mind, I would have to say that one of the most effective habits that you can develop to help reach your long-term career goals is keeping a work journal. A work journal can help you improve your productivity, boost your creativity, and sharpen your focus, amongst other things, but it does require time and effort to keep one consistently updated.
Improve Your Productivity and Organization
One benefit of keeping a work journal is that it helps to improve your productivity and organization. If you are consistently making daily notes in your work journal by date, you know day-to-day what needs to be done and what you have accomplished.
Resume Updates and Interview Examples
And, as I mentioned earlier, if you are writing down your skills, accomplishments, etc., it makes it easier to transfer to your resume when the time comes. It also gives you examples to use during future interviews.
Boost Your Creativity
Another benefit of keeping a work journal is that it gives you a safe space for creativity. For example, you can choose the type of journal or notebook that you would like to have as your work journal. You can be as creative as you want in choosing what suits you.
You can also keep notes and journal however you choose. It’s yours and there are no rules to how you choose to keep your work journal. For example, you can choose to use story form, pink ink, purple highlighters, and stickers. And, that’s okay. Again, it’s yours and there are no rules.
Sharpen Your Focus and Reflect on Your Day
Lastly, keeping a work journal can help you reflect on your day, which in turn helps improve your focus, workflow, and efficiency. It also gives you a place to write down thoughts or notes that come up when you are working so they don’t get lost.
How to Get Started
Since the benefits of keeping a work journal are so grand, you may think that it takes a lot to get started. But, really, it doesn’t. All that you need is a notebook and pen, and the consistency to keep it going.
It also wouldn’t hurt to have an idea of what you wanted to use your work journal for. For example, do you want to use it to document your achievements over a certain period of time, or perhaps your skills? It’s really up to you to decide how you choose to use yours.
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it. Here are a handful of reasons to keep a work journal and how to get started. It truly doesn’t take much to get started with your work journal aside from a notebook and pen, and the consistency to keep it going. It’s certainly a great way to learn and grow.
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