Journaling dates back well before computers, typewriters and even pencil and paper.
If you’ve every considered journaling, but just don’t know how to get started, online resources make it easier than ever. Instead of keeping a handwritten journal — which is awesome — some people prefer to journal through a blog or an online resource.
With so many free sites and apps for journaling, there is no reason not to get started right away. The best thing about online journaling is that you can download your posts, photos, and graphics and have them printed or even bound in a hard-back journal for future generations.
Let’s get started with an easy-to-use FREE online resource.
Creating your journal with Blogger
Blogger has created an easy-to-use site that allows you to journal (or as some people say, “blog”) about anything. You simply sign up for an account on the website and get started.
- Set up an account at Blogger.com.
- Name your blog.
- Choose the URL (link) for the blog.
- Start posting using various templates and other nifty tools. Choose a template from the selection offered and you will see instructions for customizing your journal.
Now you’re ready to keep your journal — update it daily, weekly, or monthly. You can update as often or as little as you’d like. It’s up to you.
Other online resources similar to Blogger.com that are often used for journaling include:
These sites offer more customization options, allow HTML input and provide plug-ins and other tools for design. These sites offer varying levels of security and allow you to keep your journal private, or share it with friends and the world.
Other journaling options
Other journaling options that feel more like a traditional journal may also interest you.
Penzu is an online resource specifically for journaling that is well-known for the highest levels of security to keep your content safe. It’s very close to journaling on paper and takes only seconds to set up. You can insert photos and share your journal if you want to or keep it private if you prefer. You can also customize your journal and express yourself in colors, fonts and lots of design elements. Sign-up is free, and there is also a pro version for a small fee that offers more design options.
LiveJournal is one of the easiest online journals, with a clean layout and intuitive interface for people who don’t have a lot of experience with websites or apps. You have the option to keep your entries private or share them with friends and family. Choose from existing themes or create your own design. Your journal is easy to customize and you can embed interactive media, add photos and much more.
Diary is free and easy to use. Create your journal with custom features and even create a shared diary with friends or family.
Print your journal
When it comes to printing your journal, you’ll find more easy-to-use online resources. Many journaling sites offer print options directly from the site.
Another option: Print your journal (inexpensively) and turn it into a book.
- Go to Blog2Print.
- Choose the type of blog/journal you use such as Blogger, TypePad, WordPress or Tumblr.
- Follow the prompts on the screen to create your book with a front and back cover, images, text and more. You have lots of tools at your disposal for designing your printed version of the online journal. The price for printing varies based on length of the book and other options you choose. A 20-page book costs $14.95, for example, and it’s a keepsake for life.
Online journaling is a great way to record important events and special memories that can easily be passed down for generations. What are your favorite online sites for journaling?