Not everybody is suited to writing in a diary or journal. Some people express their deepest feelings better in a verbal manner than textually. Video journals have been around since video cameras became affordable, but today it is easier than ever. No longer must you keep a collection of tapes that can be easily located by snoops. You can burn your video journal to DVD. In fact, you don't even need a video camera in the traditional sense. With a webcam you record directly to your hard drive and even keep it totally private with the use of password access.
If writing is not in your blood, try keeping an art journal. Those with an artistic bent might consider buying a larger bound journal in which they can draw rather than, or in addition to, writing. Art journals can provide a terrific release for people who are unable to penetrate their deepest thoughts through the act of writing.
Video games have become the bane of educators, but they can be used to teach writing. Parents might encourage their little gamers to keep a diary of game cheats and hints as they play them. Although this type of journal is not likely to be one that is looked back on 20 years down the road, tapping into the fanaticism of gaming can be a good hook that just might encourage kids to try out real journals.
One way to make a trip even more interesting is to keep a travel journal. By keeping a journal you can train yourself to pay more attention to the fun stuff that you experience and possibly even get more ideas about how to improve the trip. In addition, by keeping a record of what you are doing as you are doing it, you will have more detailed information to share with others when you return. And, of course, going back and reading your travel journal as you age can potentially bring the trip back to life even better than photos or home movies.