Diabetes Jounal Writing Tips

A diabetes journal doesn't only have to keep track of blood glucose testing results and the foods you eat every day (although it's a great way to keep track of both).  Another part of diabetes journalizing includes writing about your day, your thoughts, your frustrations and anything else you want to write about.  Here are a few tips to help you with this second part of diabetes journalizing.

1) Be honest with yourself.   It's your journal.  No one else has to see it and you don't have to look good to anyone in the pages you'll be writing.

2) Don't try to "sound" like someone you're not.  You don't have to use special language in your journal. Write the same way you talk.

3) You don't have to talk about diabetes every day. Diabetes is a part of your life, but you don't have to write about it every day on every page of your journal.  Talk about whatever is on your mind that day.  Write about the things that are important to you.

4) Don't forget about the gratitude!   Each day there is something to be grateful for.   Don’t forget to recognize this fact….and it is a fact.   If you can't think of anything except the fact that you woke up this morning…that's something to be grateful for.

5) You don't have to write in your journal every day, but try to write at least 3-4 times per week.  It's important to stay consistent.

6) Give yourself a break if you need one.  Don't feel guilty if you don't write in your journal for a few days.  Sometimes you need a break…..but remember to try to get back to writing as soon as you can.

7) Journals don't have to be expensive.  You don't have to have a fancy book with the word "Journal" printed in gold-tone letters.  You can use something as inexpensive as a 99 cents notebook (the kind kids use in school).   Or use your computer or some blank pieces of paper if that's all you have.

8) Look over your journal from time to time.   Notice any trends?  Anything there you think you need to talk about with someone else?