If you are looking for a Personal Development practice that really taps into all facets of your business and personal life, give journaling a try. To get started, dedicate a diary or a notebook as your journal, and find a place to where you’ll be free from interruption. If possible, write outside in nature.
Now, take one of the prompts, A or B, from the list below, and just start writing. Don’t over-think or edit what comes up for you. Just get it down on paper in a stream-of-consciousness manner.
What do you want less of?
- 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 ridding yourself of this?
What do you want more of?
- 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?
I get asked all the time: “What do I do with what I’ve written?”
My answer: “Whatever feels right for you.”
You can review your journal as often as you like. Or, you can simply open to a blank page and create a new entry. For me, I tend to look back when my life is in flux or uncertainty. Or I relive moments of celebration or milestones.
The key is consistency. The more frequently you journal, the easier it becomes to get your thoughts out of your head and onto the paper, and ignite the flame of transformation.
Keep it simple. Pick a time to journal regularly so it becomes a habit. When you start to write, you don’t necessarily need an agenda. Some days I sit down to journal and write whatever words come to mind. Sometimes it’s nonsensical – free association on any emotion I’m feeling. Other times my journaling is focused on an issue or situation I’m trying to resolve. Again, there is no right or wrong way to journal. Just get words on paper however you see fit.
According to Jim Rohn, Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines, practiced every day.
You may have noticed that I often quote Rohn. And for good reason. His particular brand of wisdom has been a predominant force for change in my life. But not only his insights. Most people read a pithy quote and think, That’s nice, then forget about it. Whenever I read a quote that resonates strongly with me, I make a point to write it down in my journal and incorporate it into my way of being. My point? Journaling doesn’t only have to be “me, me, me”. You can also reflect on other people’s positive ideas and write about how you might benefit from them.
Journaling, like all facets of Personal Development, is a way to be kind to yourself. It’s a great way to process your ideas, thoughts, and emotions, and shift your perspective. Enjoy!