Do you find yourself grasping at straws trying to remember that flash of brilliance you had yesterday?
There’s no greater memory than a pencil and paper. The simple act of journaling can transform your life.
If you agree your thoughts are your own most valuable resources, it just makes sense to harness their power as often as you can. And you can do that by simply writing them down.
Thoughts can be as powerful as an ox and as fleeting as a butterfly. When you transfer your thoughts to paper, it adds permanence so they can’t be forgotten. And now you have the beginnings of a blueprint to turn your imagination into reality.
There is no right or wrong way to journal. The important thing is to just write. You are writing for you and nobody else.
I journal my thoughts to gain clarity, identify challenges, and find solutions. I journal to tap into my wildest dreams. I journal to move from fear to faith.
Some days I write several pages. Other days, it’s just a few sentences or even a few words.
If you think journaling sounds too time consuming or you’re unsure how to begin, let me make it simple and fun for you to get going.
First, buy yourself a diary or a notebook you will dedicate to journaling. I suggest you resist the urge to use a digital device to journal – even if you’re a terrific typist.
Old-fashioned longhand has proven to be the most effective way to tap into your subconscious mind – where the vein of gold resides.
On the other hand, if your writing is so bad you can barely read it yourself, then go ahead and type away.
Next, take a prompt from either of the following lists and start writing. Don’t overthink or edit what comes up for you. Just get it down on paper.
What do you want less of in your life?
- Why don’t you need it?
- What setbacks does this create in your life?
- What does your life look like if you don’t make the change?
- Who do you become by freeing yourself of this?
What do you want more of in your life?
- Why is it important?
- What changes will this create in your life?
- What does your life look like when you get it?
- Who do you become by having this?
Clients ask me all the time, “What do I do with my journal?”
I answer, “Whatever feels right.”
There are no rules. You can simply open to a blank page and create a new entry – or you can read past entries to guide you in the present.
I look back in my journal when my life is chaotic or uncertain to find my north star. I look back to relive moments of celebration or milestones when I need a shot in the arm.
With journaling, I’ve discovered aspects of myself I could not have recognized through any other method. You too will be amazed at how it can clarify your vision and shift your mindset.
The most important thing is to be consistent in your practice. The more frequently you journal, the easier it becomes to get your thoughts out of your head, onto paper, and turn your imagination into reality.
Time block. Put journaling on your schedule. Try to write at the same time every day.
According to thought leader Jim Rohn, “Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines, practiced every day.”
I often quote Rohn, and for good reason. His unique brand of wisdom has been a big influence in my life. Most people read a quote and think, “That’s nice,” then forget about it.
Whenever I read a quote from Rohn – or others who resonate strongly with me – I make a point to write it down in my journal and incorporate it into my way of being.
The point is, journaling doesn’t only have to be about “me, me, me.” I can also reflect on other people’s positive ideas and write about how I want to benefit from them.
Bottom line: The best time to begin journaling is whenever you want.