I’ve been writing in a journal on and off for years, but my commitment wasn’t as high as it is now.
It all started with the book, “The Artist’s Way” and being inspired by Julia Cameron’s recommendation to write 3 pages every morning. But, it never lasted very long. I would journal in fits and spurts, mostly when something was bothering me and then forget all about it.
I feel more committed now. In addition to writing what is on my mind I am using my journal as a tool to improve my life. I can feel it’s impact almost every day and can’t imagine life without it.
5 Unexpected Ways Journaling Can Improve Your Life
Clearing Your Mind: One common journaling practice is the Brain Dump. It means simply putting all the thoughts spinning in your head on paper without editing or revising them. Just letting them flow onto the page until they wind down.
Doing this breaks the pattern of thinking and clears your mind so it can start focusing on what you want instead of just recycling thoughts about what triggered you. Visualizing the thoughts leaving your mind as you write can amplify the experience.
This is also a wonderful exercise for brainstorming ideas.
Processing Upsets: When I feel triggered or bothered by something, I go to my journal. I can process these issues pretty quickly there. I don’t always use an exact framework, but it goes something like this:
- Brain dump my thoughts and feelings
- Ask myself if what I am thinking is really true
- Write about how the thoughts I am having make me feel
- List thoughts that would serve me better (as many as I can)
- End with something positive like writing things I am grateful for or times when I felt empowered
Dreaming: The pages of my journal are full of dreams for my business and life. I have a vision for my next 5 years including what I want to achieve, qualities I want to cultivate, and what I want to surround myself with.
Writing and re-visiting these dreams regularly keeps me motivated and connected to what I really want.
Gaining Clarity: When making decisions large or small it helps to journal about my options. Often new, unexpected ideas come forward or it becomes clear what direction I want to go. Taking time to write about these decisions gives me the gift of focus so that I can hear what my heart is trying to tell me.
Free Form Writing: Writing without an intention other than to just listen to your heart and put words on the page creates fertile ground for hidden wisdom to come through. I never know what might happen, but almost always find this practice therapeutic and inspiring.
Are you ready to give yourself the gift of journaling? It can be fascinating, uplifting, and truly change your life. So, why not?
I would love to hear your thoughts about journaling. You can share in the comments section below.
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