Want a Vision Board Alternative? Use a Commonplace Journal to Capture Ideas and Inspiration
Have you ever come across a quote, idea, or piece of wisdom that you wished you could save for later? A commonplace journal might be your new favorite tool for gathering inspiration and organizing your thoughts. If, at the beginning of the year, you felt reluctant to create a vision board because you worried you wouldn't use it, this project could be just what you're looking for. Let’s dive into what a commonplace journal is, how it’s been used throughout history, and how you can start one tailored to your life—whether you're a teacher, a parent, or simply someone who loves to collect sparks of inspiration.
The History of Commonplace Journals
The practice of keeping a commonplace journal dates back to the Renaissance when scholars and thinkers used it to record and organize knowledge. Figures like Marcus Aurelius, John Locke, Virginia Woolf, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry David Thoreau have all been known to keep variations of commonplace books. These collections of quotes, passages, and reflections served as personal reference books, enabling their creators to revisit ideas, find connections, and draw inspiration for their work. Think about the idea of a personalized encyclopedia of inspiration.
In an era without search engines, commonplace journals were vital for remembering wisdom. They offered a tangible way to curate knowledge, fostering creativity and deeper understanding.
Commonplacing: A method of collecting and organizing information for future reference
How to Use a Commonplace Journal
Today, commonplace journals are as versatile as their keepers. Think of it like your saved sections on Pinterest and Instagram—only in physical form.
Here are some practical ways to use one:
Capture Quotes and Passages: Record lines from books, podcasts, or conversations that resonate with you.
Document Ideas: Scribble down ideas for projects, lessons, or personal goals.
Create Thematic Sections: Dedicate pages to recurring themes like gratitude, growth, or teaching strategies.
Reflect and Connect: Use your journal to write about how different ideas intersect or apply to your life.
Materials Needed
The beauty of a commonplace journal lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you need to get started:
A Notebook: Choose one that suits your style. A lined or dot-grid notebook works well, but a plain sketchbook can also be freeing. I chose an A5 notebook from Archer & Olive. I loved the idea of the acorns on the front cover because our daughter always finds them on our walks in the neighborhood.
Writing Tools: Pens, pencils, or markers in colors that make you happy.
Sticky Notes or Tabs: For marking sections or organizing ideas.
Extras: Washi tape, highlighters, or stamps to add personality.
Setting Up Your Commonplace Journal
Starting a commonplace journal can feel daunting, but these steps will help:
Define Its Purpose: Ask yourself, what will this journal primarily be for? Inspiration, reflection, or both?
Organize Sections: Create a table of contents or use tabs to divide your journal into categories (e.g., teaching, parenting, personal growth).
Start Small: Don’t feel pressured to fill pages all at once. Begin with a few quotes or ideas that resonate with you.
Be Consistent: Make it a habit to add to your journal regularly—even if it’s just a quick note.
Specific Examples for Teachers and Mothers
For Teachers:
Create a section for inspiring quotes about education, student success stories, or creative lesson ideas. This type of notebook is also a great place to keep notes from students, drawings, or memories from the classroom.
Include notes on professional development sessions or articles you’ve read.
Jot down strategies for classroom management or reflections on what worked well in a lesson.
For Mothers:
Keep a page of your child’s milestones or funny things they’ve said.
Write down self-care ideas or reminders to stay grounded.
Document household tips or favorite family recipes.
Additional Resources for Commonplace Notebooks
A Peek Into My Commonplace Journal
Helpful Resources
Archer & Olive | What is a Commonplace Book and How to Start One
Plan Your One Life | Build A Second Brain with Commonplace Notebooks: A Complete Guide
Amy Tangerine | Journals & Commonplace Books - 5 Easy Tips
Your commonplace journal is a space that grows and evolves with you. It’s not just a repository for information; it’s a tool for clarity, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re brainstorming lesson plans or finding solace during the chaos of parenting, this journal can be your go-to source of inspiration.
So grab a notebook, set aside some time, and start building your own commonplace journal today. You might just find that the act of writing things down ignites a spark you didn’t know you had.
