4 Reasons to Keep a Daily Work Journal

4 Reasons to Keep a Daily Work Journal 4 Reasons to Keep a Daily Work Journal 3 A work journal can be home to both work-related accomplishments and concerns, whether it be long-term or day-to-day occurrences. In terms of the structure and platforms (mobile, web, or a hard copy journal), there are no specific guidelines; however, the general rule of thumb is to record with as much detail as possible. Regardless of if youre happy in your current position or seeking new employment, keeping a work journal is for you. You can use a journal to document and track your application status or to monitor how your time and efforts are spent in your current position. Not convinced that you need to keep a work journal? Here are four reasons: Stay Organized We are all familiar with that joyous feeling associated with crossing completed tasks off a to-do list, so why not use that as a means to stay on track throughout your workday? At the very least, a work journal can act as an organizational tool to track your daily tasks and accomplishments. Just as you would never enter a supermarket without your shopping list, you should never start work without your job journal! Performance Reviews One of the most beneficial reasons to keep a journal is when its time for your semi-annual or annual performance review. Its easy to remember your most basic job duties, but its those small and easily forgettable add-ons that end up being significant contributions. Think back to the times when you went above and beyond to help out a colleague, took on an extra project when no one else wanted to, or put in effort to spruce up the office when it wasnt asked. Tracking both work-related accomplishments and less job-specific contributions will be of benefit. While those things are not expected, reminding or notifying your supervisor of them makes you stand out as a real asset to the company. Record the Facts We assume that in a professional environment our colleagues and supervisors hold themselves accountable for their responsibilities and actions; yet, unfortunately, that is not always the case. Regardless of industry or size, miscommunication and conflict are bound to happen. You can better equip yourself to handle potential disaster by using your job journal. Anytime conflict arises that may affect you and your employment, document it. Be specific, dates included, so that if the time comes to defend yourself or your work, you have the means to back it up. Creative Ideas Last but not least, a work journal is a great method for capturing creative thoughts. Bursts of creativity can come about at any point throughout the day, so rather than interrupting your flow, briefly jot down the idea to return to it later. Readers, have you used a work journal before? What tips would you provide to those interested in starting one? Share your ideas with us below!