Start A Job Journal
Most people tend to hear the word “journal” and are immediately turned off; it’s almost like there is a stigma attached. But don’t let those stereotypes take over because there may be some great value in creating a job journal. For all you trekkie fans out there, think about Capt. Jean-Luc Picard and his Captain’s log; it’s the same concept. Even if you are not a Star Trek fan, there are some very sound reasons why you too might think about starting a job journal.
Memorialization. One good use of a journal is simply to help you remember important information that might otherwise be forgotten. A job journal will give you something to reference in the future, providing important insight into accomplishments, setbacks, and emotions.
You will be able to reference this information for your own perspective or for things such as annual reviews. What were the accomplishments you had set out to complete at the beginning of the year? Did you accomplish them? Why or why not? This can help to put you in the drivers set of your development rather than relying on your manager who may or may not be good at this.
Identify Trends and Patterns. There are all kinds of patterns in our lives that are waiting to be discovered if we would only put in the time and effort to identify them. By writing down everything from how you feel each day to when you are busiest, you will start to see patterns. Understanding that you get very unfocused at the end of the month could help you to restructure your work at the end of the month in order to be more effective. Use this information to improve yourself and the way you tackle work situations.
Provide an Outlet. Everyone needs a purging of their frustrations and complaints—it helps us to move on. A job journal can be an effective and safe way to vent your issues. Rather than share your feelings with coworkers or family members, neither of which is healthy, write your feelings down. One word of caution, don’t let your job journal’s sole purpose be a whipping post for your frustrations. That will also be unhealthy. Reading your own words will help you gain perspective on what the real issues are.
Summary
Keeping a job journal does not need to be a tedious chore to add to your list. Incorporate a couple of minutes into your daily routine. After you get used to it you will most likely find it therapeutic and perhaps closure to the day. There are so many benefits and opportunities that can be gained from keeping a journal. The insight you gain is priceless and keeping a central record of your work emotions/actions, will prove valuable down the road. It really is a no-lose proposition.
