There are no rules. There is no single exact way to use the tracker journal. The only goal, ideally, is to write in it regularly, to make it a habit. To do this, you need to figure out how to integrate it into your routine. What follows is therefore not a step-by-step guide, but rather ideas and suggestions that everyone is free to draw inspiration from.
What are the components of Ancre's tracker journal?
The first line includes a space for the optional title and one to note the date. This line is followed by 5 checkboxes which can be used in different ways. Then, there is a free writing space.
How to use these components?
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The title space is seen as optional, nevertheless, giving a title to your day will delight fans of TV series. The title of each day can be completely different, or conversely, follow a pattern: "The day of/where...". Another possibility is the numerical series: day 1, day 2, day 3... Ideal for keeping count and for "streak" enthusiasts.
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The date field. Classic.
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The 5 checkboxes, or non-checkboxes, depending on your use. For those who wish to check them, it is generally to mark a task to be accomplished, an action to be done or not to be done (not giving in to a burger, fries, and soda combo right after a workout because "I deserve it"). Checking a box is very gratifying. The text accompanying these boxes can vary from day to day, or be repetitive to track one or more daily objectives over a long period of time. As already written, nothing obliges you to check these boxes. They can very well just be there to note the 5 significant events of a day, whether personal or professional. The boxes therefore become a bulleted list.
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The last and main field, for free writing, acts as an open space for reflection. Sometimes it will be completely blackened or completely blank. Everything will depend on your day, your inspiration, and your motivation.
When to write in your tracker journal?
When it suits you! Morning, noon, evening, throughout the day, on public transport, in a café, on your sofa... You get the idea, but here are a few possible options:
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Write your to-do list in the morning, or even the day before, to come back to it in the evening and take stock.
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Check the boxes and take notes throughout the day, while the experience is fresh.
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Block a defined time at a precise hour in the evening to dedicate yourself to writing.
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Take this time in the morning to write about the day before.
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Prepare your tasks for the week ahead on Sunday evening, then check the boxes day after day.
As written in the introduction, there is no single way to use the tracker journal. What matters is finding your rhythm and creating the habit. As is often the case, the hardest part is getting started, and if you are here, you are almost there.
