Most people that keep daily journals like to keep them forever. And if you’re still in the habit of taking pen to paper, you probably have tons of notebooks filling your bookshelf.
Fortunately, there are lots of apps that make it easy to keep a journal right on your phone, tablet, or laptop.
Today we’re talking about Evernote. It’s the perfect way to keep an online journal, and it offers a lot more functionality than any physical notebook ever could.
If you’re interested in taking your diary digital, here’s our full guide to keeping a journal in Evernote.
What is Evernote?
Evernote is an app designed for taking notes and organizing tasks. It’s loaded with features and templates you can use for everything from planning your to-do list to managing your schedule.
It’s also a great way to keep track of your thoughts, inspiration, emotional intelligence notes, photos, and important documents.
You can scan documents with Evernote, which is awesome for tracking receipts and purchases. If you want to attach photos or videos to a daily journal entry, you can do that too.
This app makes it easy to attach articles, images, voice memos, and video links to your note. With this feature, you can create an audio and visual diary that’s more robust than anything you’ve seen before.
Create an Evernote Account
To start using Evernote, download the app (it’s free) and create an account.
Add a secure password so you won’t have to worry about your sensitive information falling into the wrong hands.
The app can be used on a variety of mobile devices. When you sign up on your phone, you’ll get an email so that you can add the app to your desktop, as well. Syncing the app across your computer, phone, and tablet allows you to access it no matter where you are!
If you choose to upgrade to Evernote Business or Evernote Premium, you can also access your journal when you’re offline.
Decide What You Want to Record
Now that your account is created, you can decide what type of journal you want to keep.
For example:
You could use Evernote to create to-do lists. You can record things you plan to do that day or things you did the day before.
Or, you can keep a food journal, jot down notes and ideas, or use it to start writing your novel.
However you want to structure it is up to you.
One of the best things about this app is that every entry can be edited. So if you forgot to add something, it’s easy to go back and insert it wherever you like.
Evernote can be used to track everything you do at work, at school, and in your personal life. You can intermingle everything together or keep separate notebooks for different areas of your life.
This app is designed for flexibility, so you can customize your journal any way you want!
Create a New Notebook
The first step in creating your journal is to create a new “notebook”. You can title it anything you like; how you name and organize your files is completely up to you.
Once you have an open notebook, it’s time to create your first note.
There are a variety of templates to choose from, depending on how you want to structure your entries. So pick a template that suits your style. You’ll also see options that allow you to record audio, add an attachment, or start sketching.
One cool feature of Evernote is that you can sketch or write in your own handwriting. Draw a silly picture, create the great next work of art, or start scribbling about how you’re feeling. Whether you type with your keyboard or choose to write freehand, Evernote makes it easy to do.
In addition to titling notebooks, you can title each individual note. So if you’re using Evernote as a journal, it’s usually best to title it with the date. That way, it’ll be easy to go back and review specific days whenever you want!
The Benefits of Using Evernote
Evernote makes a great daily diary, but you can also use it to organize everything in your life.
If you’re looking to go paperless, use it to scan and save receipts and other important documents. The various templates are great for planning budgets, schedules, and parties. And it’s the perfect app for tracking your work habits, productivity, and goals.
And, if you’re used to keeping physical journals in paper notebooks, it will save you precious space on your bookshelf!
In Summary
Maybe you like to journal about your life. Perhaps you’re an obsessive list-keeper who writes a new to-do list every day. Maybe you’re gathering inspiration for a party you need to plan or a trip you want to take. Or maybe you want to learn by yourself as you take notes.
With Evernote, you can do all of that and more.
Add voice memos, photos, and video links. Include links to websites. Sketch drawings, create schedules, and scan receipts. We could go on and on.
Evernote comes in several versions, some of which you have to pay for. But the free version is a great way to get started.
Download this app and check it out — it just might encourage you to start journaling and keeping track of your life!
For more recommendations, check out these books: https://theartofliving.com/book-recommendations/
Author Bio:
Caitlin Sinclair has five years of Property Management experience working primarily in high-end apartment community living. Her ability to consistently deliver white-glove service to her residents and prospects has propelled her into a successful career that now finds her leading the team at Vicino.