Get started with Journaling

Journaling, the act of regular, informal, personal writing, can be life-changing.  This simple practice not only records daily occurrences, it also helps to release and heal thought patterns and emotions.

There is no right or wrong way to journal.  As you get into the flow of daily writing, you will develop your own style.  

My two main methods are:

-   The daily three-minute method.  This includes a gratitude list, the day’s intentions and a positive affirmation.

- My second and favourite method is a more creative approach; set a timer, choose a relevant prompt and free write. This approach has supported me to solve many personal conundrums. 

If you are new to journaling, then please be warned that not all journaling is positive.  You can find yourself rewriting for hours; solidifying the sense of being troubled. I have been there.   

My tips for positive impact journaling:

1.     Start small.  And I mean small.  Set a timer for two minutes and if the idea of recapping emotions seems too much, then start with a short gratitude journal. This is a daily list of anything you’re grateful for: a cosy bed, a cuppa, the library, a warm shower… Remember, it is consistency, no matter how long you do it for that will set you up for a new habit.

2.     When you are ready to write through your emotions, choose a relevant prompt and set your timer for 10 minutes.  Then free focused write, you will be surprised with what comes out…

3.     Journaling makes our self-talk concrete, as it makes us conscious of our internal dialogues.  As we put our thoughts and ideas into words, we begin to understand them.  Thus, do write in a solution-focused manner, i.e. what did you do well, what did you learn, etc. 

Properly executed, journals can provide fresh perspectives, help us become more self-aware of our inner dialogue and organise our thoughts. This greater sense of meaning, can lead to happier days and better health.