Journaling The Journey

In days gone by it was common to keep a diary or personal journal. Today few people do it and fewer recognize the astonishing power of keeping a journal. If you can read and write, you have access to an amazing source of personal power and absolute magic!

When I first suggest journaling to clients, they claim they couldn't possibly find the time. I contend that they simply haven't realized the value of journaling and don't yet see it as a priority. As the saying goes, "It takes 21 days to turn a behavior into a habit." So, how about journaling for 15 minutes a day over the next 21 days? Try it, and watch it dramatically alter your life! After 21 days, most of my clients say they couldn't imagine being without it. Many journal for a half-hour or more. The following are my top three reasons to keep a journal:

1. A journal will clarify your goals.

As you write a few thoughts each day, your ideas about what's important, what is worthy of your energy and your time will become much more defined. You'll automatically discover what you really want in life. Then, your inner compass can point the way to your best path.

2. A journal helps eliminate impulsiveness.

Some ideas sound really great in our imagination, but when written on paper they take on a new meaning. It's easy to blurt out "I hate my boss!", but writing about what it means to quit your job, change careers and start over will quickly result in one of two things: The temptation will fade away, or you'll start formulating actual plans to make the necessary changes. Either way, you win!

3. A journal affirms the events of your life.

Writing about your life saturates it with meaning and power. Journaling about your child's first steps or first tooth, the passing of a loved one or friend, the appearance of a particular opportunity or choice adds substance to these things and provides an historical context to your life experience.

Journaling has been referred to as a form of meditation. It has been known to spark romance, solve world problems and change the thinking of nations. It has the power to quiet the mind and focus your thoughts. It can heal anxiety, change your breathing and bring a smile to your face. At the very least, journaling will give you a few minutes to catch your breath before stepping into another day.

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