If you’re serious about becoming a wealthy, powerful, sophisticated, healthy, influential, cultured and unique individual, keep a journal—don’t trust your memory. When you listen to something valuable, write it down. When you come across something important, write it down.

I used to take notes on pieces of paper and torn-off corners and backs of old envelopes. I wrote ideas on restaurant placemats, long sheets, narrow sheets, little sheets and pieces of paper thrown in a drawer. And the best way to organize all those ideas was to keep a journal.

So I became a buyer of blank books. People found it interesting that I would buy a blank book. “Twenty-six dollars for a blank book, why would you pay that?” they’d say. Well, the reason I paid it was to challenge myself to find something worth $26 to put in there. But if you ever got a hold of one of my journals, you wouldn’t have to look very far to discover that it’s worth more than that.

Keeping a journal is so important. In fact, it is one of three important treasures to leave behind for the next generation:

1. Your pictures.

Take a lot. Don’t be lazy in capturing an event. How long does it take to snap a photo? A fraction of a second. How long does it take to miss an event? A fraction of a second. So don’t miss the pictures—when you’re gone, they’ll keep the memories alive.

2. Your library.

This is the library that taught you, instructed you, helped you defend your ideals. It helped you develop a philosophy. It helped you become wealthy, powerful, healthy, sophisticated and unique. Your library—the books that instructed you and fed your mind and your soul—is one of the greatest gifts you can leave behind.

3. Your journals.

These are the ideas you picked up and the information that you meticulously gathered. Of the three, journal writing is one of the greatest indications that you’re a serious student. Taking pictures—that’s pretty easy. Buying a book at a book store—that’s pretty easy. It is a little more challenging to be a student of your own life, your own future, your own destiny.

Take the time to write notes and to keep a journal. You’ll be so glad you did. What a treasure to leave behind when you go. What a treasure to enjoy today!

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