How do you create a leadership journal?

1 Choose a format

The first step to creating a leadership journal is to decide on a format that works best for you. You can use a physical notebook, a digital app, a voice recorder, or a combination of these. The format should be easy to access, comfortable to use, and secure to store. You can also customize your journal with colors, stickers, images, or other elements that inspire you.

2 Set a schedule

The second step to creating a leadership journal is to set a schedule that fits your routine and goals. You can journal daily, weekly, monthly, or whenever you feel the need. The important thing is to be consistent and committed to your journaling practice. You can also set a specific time and place for journaling, or do it whenever you have a free moment.

3 Write prompts

The third step to creating a leadership journal is to write prompts that guide your reflection and learning. Prompts are questions or statements that help you focus on a specific aspect of your leadership, such as your vision, values, skills, challenges, feedback, achievements, or plans. You can use existing prompts from books, websites, or courses, or create your own based on your interests and needs.

4 Respond honestly

The fourth step to creating a leadership journal is to respond honestly to your prompts. This means being open, authentic, and curious about your thoughts and feelings, without judging or censoring yourself. You can write as much or as little as you want, as long as you express yourself clearly and sincerely. You can also use different formats, such as bullet points, lists, diagrams, charts, or stories.

5 Review regularly

The fifth step to creating a leadership journal is to review regularly what you have written. This will help you gain insights, identify patterns, track changes, and celebrate achievements. You can review your journal at the end of each session, week, month, or year, depending on your goals and preferences. You can also use tools such as highlighters, sticky notes, or symbols to mark important or relevant entries.

6 Apply learnings

The sixth and final step to creating a leadership journal is to apply your learnings to your organizational leadership practice. This means taking action based on your reflections, insights, and goals, and evaluating the results. You can also share your journal with others, such as mentors, coaches, peers, or friends, who can offer feedback, support, or advice. You can also use your journal as a portfolio or evidence of your leadership development.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?