I used to journal often, especially as a child. Back then, my parents would pay me $0.10 for every journal entry I wrote. Their ruse to improve my English developed into a life-long appreciation for writing. However, as I grew older (and the $0.10 payments stopped coming in), I exchanged my books and journals with a phone screen and inevitably fell off this habit.

However, in 2020, I came across James’ website, who has been maintaining a daily blog for the past year. His work greatly inspired my decision to revisit journaling and start this website.

Here's why I write:

1. This project scares me.

The idea of writing for 365 days in a row scares me. Committing to daily reflection is a test of my determination and my ability to be consistent. I write because I want to seek discomfort and face it head-on.

2. I want to be a better writer.

Self-explanatory.

2. I want to feel more present in my day-to-day life.

This one is hard to put into words. As the days change faster as I grow older, it feels as if my time is not mine. I am constantly bombarded with media created to draw away our attention and our time. Seldom do I sit by myself and just think. By writing every single day, I am forcing myself to sit and think. At the end of this challenge, I will have 365 entries. That’s 365 thoughts transcribed into writing. That’s 365 moments I spent by myself, just thinking.

3. I want to hold myself accountable on my learning.

I have chosen three prompts I will explore every single week through my writing: health, power + oppression and french. Here, I am forced to articulate my thoughts and learnings into a tangible medium for you, my audience. Thanks for keeping me accountable :).

4. Because I want to.

Perhaps you have felt the same way - a pressure to select activities that will beef up your resume or appeal to your future employer. These reasons are valid, but, for once, this decision is entirely mine. I really want to do this. That’s it. And that’s more than enough of a reason already.