They all made history. They all kept a journal.
These incredible humans made a massive impact in their lifetime. Here are some illuminating articles (hyperlink in subheadings) that are sure to inspire the creative genius in each of us.
Leonardo Da Vinci
“Educated men will look at what I do and say this is useless work. But the words they breath from their mouths, are as wise as the winds they pass from their asses. Fools.” – Leonardo da Vinci.
Observing the journals of Leonardo da Vinci
“For anyone who keeps or wants to start a journal, it is extremely important to know their “why” because without it the habit of keeping one will not last very long. For Leonardo, it was his intention to “leave a memory of [himself] in the minds of others” in search for a deeper more lasting meaning to his life”.
Interesting Facts about Leonardo Da Vinci's Journals
“Many of his works, like his anatomy and physiology studies, could have accelerated discoveries and knowledge in areas such as medicine and engineering if they had been consulted after his death by other scientists and inventors.”
Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks
“You can explore all three of our Forster Codices in amazing detail by following the links under each codex section”
Oprah Winfrey
“The most valuable gift you can give yourself is the time to nurture the unique spirit that is you.”—Oprah Winfrey.
Yes, Journaling Can Change Your Life—Here’s How
“When it comes down to it, becoming your best self is a task that only you can take on. That’s where journaling comes in. Devotees and researchers alike will tell you that the practice of writing out your thoughts can help you organize your thinking, work through complicated emotions, and tune in to your creativity.”
How Journaling Can Change Your Life as it Did for Oprah, Branson, and Mandela
An Exclusive Look at Oprah's Journals
“I wrote a lot of bad poetry in my teens and 20s, mostly about how some guy had done me wrong. I used my journals as therapy. Oh, the time I wasted worrying about men and weight, and what other people thought!
In my 40s, I got wiser. I started using journals to express my gratitude—and watched my blessings multiply. What you focus on expands.”
Thomas Edison
"Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits." – Thomas Edison.
The Real Nature of Thomas Edison’s Genius
"The inventor did not look for problems in need of solutions; he looked for solutions in need of modification".
What the Journals of Thomas Edison Teach Us About Productivity, Creativity, and Success
"Edison’s success didn’t spring from a single moment of inspiration—rather, it was the result of a deliberate approach to changing the world".
Thomas Edison’s diary
“Moon was shining brightly. Girls called my attention several times to beauty of the light from said moon shining upon the waters”
Barack Obama
“I think that change happens, typically not because somebody on high decides that it’s going to happen, but rather because at a grassroots level enough people come together that they force the system to change.” – Barack Obama.
How Obama clarifies his thoughts
“Today, having graduated into becoming the “former’ American President from the “44th one”, Barack Obama still has not let up on journaling and reflecting about his future. Though his net worth today is estimated to be $40 million, his diary entries show him ruminating through different options – golfer, actor or teacher”.
Obama, the Best-Selling Author, on Reading, Writing and Radical Empathy
“You just have to get started. You just put something down. Because nothing is more terrifying than the blank page”.