Hello! Welcome! Thank you so much for joining me! I can hardly express how excited I am for you to read this blog post! Without a doubt, I always write straight from my heart, but this time, I pull out all the stops! I truly hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing.
At the exact moment, when I sat down at my desk to consider what my next blog post would be, a notification sound went off on my phone. Hey, an email from one of my readers! That is always a highlight of my day! Through reading that email, I learned that my reader had followed my suggestions, from previous blog posts, and decided to give journal writing a try. They went on to say how much they enjoyed the process, and how much clarity it provided!
I was thrilled to receive this feedback, and after I walked on air for a few minutes, it hit me—wait a minute—doesn’t everyone practice journal writing? Ha-ha
To you, my reader, I want to say thank you for your timely email, and extend my gratitude! ❤️
I have been writing for pretty much my whole life since I was only about 8 or 9 years old. When on a warm, summer afternoon, I was wandering around the house, complaining to my mom, how bored I was. She had an idea of something she thought I might enjoy. At that point, I was open to just about anything to pass some time, and I am sure that my mom was open to just about anything to get me out of the house. Ha-ha
Mom told me to get some paper and a pencil, go outside, sit under a shade tree, and write something. I asked her what I should write about? Her instruction was simple, “Use your imagination, dream, and write whatever you want, whatever comes to mind”.
On that day, something ignited within me, and a writing journey was launched! When reflecting, I realize that the privacy and space my mom offered, right from the beginning, fueled my freedom to grow. That was the best gift ever! Although, she enjoyed hearing my stories and poems, when I chose to share, she never pressed, or otherwise asked what I was writing about.
I hold that sweet memory of my mom close to me now. I can recreate that summer day so clearly in my mind, that I even remember what I was wearing, and the green Kool-Aid that I was sipping. To this very day, one of my favourite things to do is sit outside on a warm afternoon, with paper and pen in hand, and write—whatever comes to mind. I am never bored!
Although I find creative writing deeply satisfying, journal writing is my true love. Briefly stated, it’s my safe place, where I tap into my thoughts and intuition. Where no one else’s opinions are heard. At times when I am looking for guidance, I turn to a trusted practice that I would describe as a super gentle self-interrogation.
So—why journal? Why put forth the time and effort? What’s the purpose? These are all excellent questions, especially for anyone considering, or just starting a journaling practice. I experience so many benefits; I hardly know where to begin to answer! I couldn’t think of one good answer—I thought of more than ten!
My super keen interest in personal growth provides huge motivation! I want to make conscious choices about how to live my life, how I want to contribute and spend the time that I have. Through journaling, I have developed a trust that I am moving forward in a direction that brings me fulfillment and fits with my values. It helps me find my way, and navigate through change. Lets me savour all the good stuff, and gain insight and wisdom from my mistakes learning experiences, and difficult times. My biggest aha-moments can be found within the pages of my notes. Journaling at very least brings me peace, calm, and clarity which alone, make it worthwhile.
Wow! Did you read that last paragraph? I did! Let’s read it again!
As always, my intention is not only to provide inspiration and encouragement but to give you concrete tools and tips that you can apply and use. For that, I am going to set aside the dreamer part of me, and let the detailed, structured part take over. Foremost, there is no right or wrong way of journaling. This is my self-taught method, that has evolved over many years. It works for me! Your journal writing style will be as unique as you are.
You will know almost immediately if this is something that sparks an interest within you. Even if you are a seasoned writer, with your style nailed down, maybe you will simply enjoy the words of a fellow journaler.
Some of My Journal Topics:
- Self Growth, Personal Insights, Reflections, Gratitude
- Ideas, Dreams, Plans
- Reinvention Between the Chapters
- Work-Related—Problem Solving, Decision Making, Boredom
Although on the surface, these topics appear routine and innocent, they contain much wisdom and many secrets. I don’t mean “my lips are sealed” kind of secrets, (although there may be a few), I mean secrets that I have learned from years of personal growth. These secrets that have become my guide, will be shared with you as tips. You will find your secrets.
Let me share with you my process:
- I choose my writing location and surrounding. A quiet place, where I won’t be interrupted or distracted. I don’t use my computer or tablet for journaling, my preference is pen and paper. I become empowered as I watch my words flow from the pen, and witness the wisdom coming from my handwriting.
- I start by writing across the top of a page what it is that I am wanting to focus my writing session on. I call it—setting my intention—I set a clear topic and intention for my writing so that I don’t end up preparing my grocery list. Lol
- Then comes my list of questions. One thing consistent with my journaling style is that I ask myself questions and lots of them! I have yet to ask myself a question and not get an answer. It may not be immediate, but it will come. (Maybe in the beginning, if you are just getting the feel of this, you could ask yourself who, or what, you are grateful for in your life?)
- Start writing—Don’t overthink your answer, or let guilt creep up on you. It’s ok if you wrote that you are grateful for your dog before you even thought of your spouse, ha-ha. Another benefit of journaling is developing the muscle to let go of guilt.
- When I am finished writing, I take the time to go back and read what I wrote—slowly. Just as important as the writing, is the acknowledgment, and contemplation of my words. Often, when I read my notes, it prompts my next question, my next curiosity.
Pretty simple, right? Yes, because it is simple! Simple in terms of skill, not in terms of depth. Remember, I was just a child when I started. Simplicity was all I knew, and since, all I have ever needed.
How are you doing? So far, so good? In the interest of not turning this blog post into a book, ha-ha, I am going to end here for today. I have so much more! I haven’t even got to the secrets yet! In my next post, I will dive in deeper, really unpack, and share!
One last question before I sign off—Have you ever had a time in your life, when you were so tangled up and stressed out, that you couldn’t even imagine sitting and writing in any logical form? Well, I have! A few years ago, during a blind flurry of overwhelm, I stumbled upon something that I have since turned to for those very difficult times. Times when there is no way I am going to sit still. It’s amazing how well this works for me! I laugh when I think of it now because I was so shocked at the time of my discovery. Stay tuned, this secret will also be revealed in my next post!
If you are enjoying the content, I don’t want you to miss what’s next! Please, either check-in regularly, or make it super easy and subscribe, if you haven’t done so already. I will then send a notification directly to your inbox. If anyone can benefit from my journey, I consider that mission intention accomplished!
In the meantime, take care of yourself. I will be right here writing! See you soon…….
