Maybe you hate writing. Perhaps you feel too busy. But journaling is centering in a world gone mad.
Challenge: Try journaling 3-minutes a day for 10 days.
10 reasons you should begin journaling today:
#1. See yourself:
Constant stress turns your brain to spaghetti. You think stupid thoughts. Journaling shows you your own craziness.
Record your thoughts to understand yourself.
#2. Discovery:
Writing is thinking. You think new thoughts while you record current ideas. One sentence leads to the next.
#3. Action:
Answer this simple question in your journal. “What do you want to do about that?” In your head it’s self-affirming to blame. Structured journaling enables responsibility-taking.
#4. Emotional expression:
You need a place to say things you can’t say in public. Go ahead. Write that stuff down. Find clarity by reading your own thoughts and feelings.
Great challenges require clear thinking.
#5. Goal setting:
Set and track a simple daily goal. Record one thing you must do today. Think of something that moves you toward the person you aspire to become.
#6. Memory:
You forget your own life. Jot down a few things you want to remember. Record a success. Document progress. Memorialize challenges you have overcome.
#7. Creativity:
Give expression to your creative side. Self-expression is freeing especially in a place that doesn’t directly impact others.
#8. Gratitude:
Write a sentence that begins, “I’m grateful for…”
Write another sentence that begins, “I’m grateful to…”
#9. Problem-solving:
Record three ways to solve a current challenge. Which one will you choose?
#10. Pattern recognition:
You repeat what you don’t notice. Skim your journal once a week looking for recurring topics. Savor joyful patterns. Confront painful patterns.
TIP: Don’t write War and Peace. Begin by setting a timer for three minutes.
What journaling tips do you have?
What suggestions do you have for people who resist written self-reflection?
Still curious:
Gratitude When You Don’t Feel It
Benefits of Journaling and Tips for Getting Started
