[Day One] Who are you and what do you do?
[Sam] My name is Sam C. Perry (@samcperry), and I’m a Senior Menswear Buyer for an e-commerce company in New York City. I am also the Creative Brand Director and Editor for samcperry.com. Aside from the professional titles, I am a creative individual from a small town in New Jersey, the only child of wonderful parents, and the partner of a beautiful soul.
When and why did you start journaling?
As a child, I always kept journals as a way to release my thoughts and ideas. A little over a year ago, I was going through a pivotal transformation in my adult life and I began journaling again as a release. It has been a process that continues to evolve over time. It started as general thoughts and has now turned into solely gratitude journaling. Keeping a gratitude journal has proven to be life changing. I’ve found when I focus on all the things I do have, I lose interest in the things I thought were missing.
What is your journaling routine?
I honestly do not have a routine. I try to submit an entry at least once a week that will focus on what I am thankful for from the previous week. I tend to find a picture I’ve taken, or something that has inspired me and base my entry around that. I find it difficult to stick to a routine when, (in most cases) I’ve had an extremely busy and stressful day. With Sundays being my “relax” day, I usually find time to sit and reflect on my week and submit an entry.
Do you focus on longform writing, or in capturing small memories of life?
I focus on both. When I write for my site, the focus is on longform. When doing my journal, the focus is on capturing those small moments and memories of life. I tend to always use my phone when doing my entries, so if I see something that inspires me I capture it and write a small note.
Do you have a favorite spot where you like to journal?
My favorite spot to journal is my bedroom. I don’t have a TV in my room, so I find it to be the perfect spot to tune out any distractions and focus on getting my thoughts out.
What was your first entry in Day One?
My first entry was at the start of 2015. I’d been keeping a written journal and wanted something that was more accessible and that’s when I discovered Day One. My first entry in Day One is about being thankful for all I learned and made it through in 2014. A picture of myself and my grandmother on Christmas morning served as the basis for how I wanted my year to go—be surrounded by people I love and enjoy the simple things and quality moments I sometimes take for granted.
How many entries do you have in your journal?
I’m still rather new to Day One—I have 11 entries, each with an image. I plan on developing an image series that will focus on creating stories through imagery.
What is your favorite or most-used feature in Day One?
My favorite feature is the ability to add images (though I wish you could add more then one). Aside from that, it would be the time stamp and location feature. Having the ability to use all three allows me to go back to older entries and reflect on those moments I enjoyed.
Do you write mostly on the iPhone, iPad, or the Mac?
Since my iPhone is always with me, I tend to use it more. I do enjoy using the iPad app simply because of the size. I haven’t downloaded the app for Mac, but plan to do so.
Do you follow any journal organization rules?
The only rule I follow is tagging each entry. This allows me to look at specific tags all at once. I’d definitely say this is another feature I enjoy.
Have you ever relied on Day One for something unexpected, or used it to recall details about a specific event or date?
I’ve unexpectedly used it as a gratitude journal. After being recommended to keep one, and no longer wanting to keep a written one, I sought after an app that allowed me to do.
About the Interviewer
Dallas Petersen is Day One’s product manager by day (and some nights). When he’s not working, he’s hanging out with his wife and five kids and/or playing board games.
