Journaling during Covid-19: Famous People who Journaled

Serena Williams

"Writing down your feelings in a notebook or journal can help clear out negative thoughts and emotions that keep you feeling stuck.”    

• Read: Journaling about a Sport

Charles Darwin:

During his time on the HMS Beagle, a 5 year sea voyage that led to the theory or evolution, Charles Darwin kept a journal to note personal and scientific observations.  

• Learn more about Darwin's Journal and read excerpts here. 

Nelson Mandela
 
‘There is universal respect and even admiration for those who are humble and simple by nature, and who have absolute confidence in all human beings irrespective of their social status . . .  it is such good men and women who are the hope of the world. their efforts and achievements are recognized beyond the grave, even far beyond the borders of their countries, they become immortal.’

• Read parts of former president of South Africa and leader of antiapartheid movement: "Nelson Mandela: 12 letters from the desk of a freedom fighter"

Henry David Thoreau

“Is not the poet bound to write his own biography? Is there any other work for him but a good journal? We do not wish to know how his imaginary hero, but how he, the actual hero, lived from day today.”

• What's Inside Henry Thoreau's Journal - The Atlantic
• or Read a few of his entries yourself in his digitized journals

Frida Kahlo: 

“I paint myself because I am so often alone and because I am the subject I know best.”

• Video About Frida Kahlo
• Video of her diaries

Anne Frank

"I hope I will be able to confide everything to you [her diary], as I have never been able to confide in anyone, and I hope you will be a great source of comfort and support."

• video on Anne Frank's Diary

Oscar Wilde

“I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read on the train.”

• Read this survey Wilde completed in his diary.

Oprah Winfrey

"I've been journaling since I was 15. It's a wonder that I've managed to be a successful human being considering how pathetic I appeared in many of my daily musings. It's a testament to growth and grace that I've come this far."

Read more about her diaries and see excerpts here.