How to Make a Journal on a Computer
Writing a journal is a great way to relieve stress and let out your inner thoughts in a safe environment. Although journals can be handwritten, many people prefer to use a computer because typing is much easier than hand writing. It is faster, so it can more easily keep up with the flow of your thoughts. It just takes a few steps to make and maintain a computer journal.
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Things You'll Need
- Word processing program that creates password-protected files
- Spyware detection program
- Removable flash drive
Instructions
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1
Select a word processing program that allows you to create password-protected files. Most major programs, like Microsoft Word, allow you to add password protection. This will help ensure that your journal stays private.
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2
Run a thorough spyware check on the computer you will be using for your journal. A journal is a private record, so you must be sure there is no spyware or keylogging software on the computer that could compromise your privacy.
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Create a file in which you can add your journal entries. If you start a new page for each new entry, it will be easier to tell where each entry starts. Also include the date at the top of each entry.
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Don't censor yourself as you type your entries or make changes. Let your thoughts flow freely. The purpose of a journal is to give you a safe place to vent and say whatever you need to say. It's easy to change or correct things on a computer, but don't allow yourself to do so.
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Save the file on a removable flash drive, using the password protection option. If you leave it on the computer's hard drive, someone might be able to access it even without a password. Don't give it an obvious name, like myjournal.doc. Name it something generic that won't pique anyone's curiosity.
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Store the flash drive in a safe place in between uses. You can only open up your innermost thoughts and feelings in a journal if you know that your privacy will be maintained. Keeping the file secure will give you that assurance.
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Tips & Warnings
For additional privacy, after you have saved your file, rename it with a different extension that is not word processor-related. For example, rename it something like photo.jpg. If someone tries to open it, the computer will not recognize it as a document and it will just seem to be a corrupted file. Change the extension before opening it when you add another entry.
Resources
- Photo Credit Photo: Hewlett-Packard
