salixj | Great Day (Reply)

Several years ago I read about a man who had depression. In order to combat his negative feelings he would write down five things that would make the day a "diamond day".

I've incorporated this idea into my regular journalling, though I have changed the concept somewhat.

I call the section "7 acts". These are seven acts that I do throughout the day that makes the day great, for me.

I write them down the day before, each on their own line, with a small square next to them that indicates their category.

These are acts, not tasks, as I include such things as having a chocolate bar or watching a program on television. Moreover, by calling them ACTS I take away from the idea that these are chores or tasks I need somehow to get through. These daily accomplishments I want to complete.

There are categories and they are: physical, mental, emotional, intellectual, custom (habit), defer (procrastinate),self, other, work, fun.

I try to hit each category at least once during the week.

I think these are mostly explanatory save perhaps custom, which is when I am working on a new habit, and that is entered daily until the habit is established, and defer, which is something I have been putting off that I need to get done. Self and other, are doing things for me specifically and no one else. Other is what I do for something else. I've developed codes for different acts that are commonly do. Acts can be simple or complex, and range from "dishes" to "finish project".

As I go through my day I check off each item I have done.

As these are not tasks I also keep, along with my journal, I lists of tasks on a simple piece of paper that I can take with me if I need to go somewhere. I also have a task notebook that I keep in my purse, as well as a memory notebook, when I can't access my journal.

In addition, in my journal, I write a daily goal, which is where my focus will be. Clean up after Shabbat, establish reading list for next few days, focus on eating habits. It is where I want the thrust of my attention that day to be.

These three things helps me to stay on my life-course, allowing me to wander without getting lost. They are my compass in life.