Having been a journal writer for over 20 years, regularly writing three pages a day, I have learnt a thing or two about the great benefits that can come from this practice. It is a great habit to integrate into your schedule.
My own practice has been to write early in the morning with a hot cup of coffee in hand. I write about whatever comes into my head. Everything from shopping lists to lists of things to do, life issues, hopes and dreams, and of course prayers. Whatever I am thinking or feeling flows out onto the page.
These are the benefits I have noticed that come from journaling.
- Journaling helps me to clarify my thoughts.
- Journaling helps me to get clear on what I want and need.
- Journaling is a great way to work through problems on paper. Often great solutions seem to ‘appear’ as I write.
- Journaling is great for my mental and emotional health. When I am feeling bad I can pick up my pen and start writing about how I am feeling. I am always in a more uplifted mood after doing this. Journaling helps me to articulate what is really at the core of the issues I am facing and gives me confidence about how to address them successfully.
- In going back over my journals from time to time, I notice that themes appear, ideas emerge that will not go away, and purpose and direction seem to unfold for my life.
- Journaling has helped me know myself more fully. Who I am and what I am called to do in the world.
- I use my journal to write down ideas as they come to me during the day. I also write great quotes from books that I am reading or whatever I am listening to throughout the day. The journal is a repository for everything I do not want to forget.
- Journaling has helped to become more creative and productive. Journaling helps me to overcome my own fears and conquer resistance to getting started.
I have been journaling so long it has become a necessary part of my morning routine. When I have finished journaling I feel equipped for the day, organised and focused. I know exactly what I want to go forth and accomplish. What direction to take. I have my marching orders. I get dressed and ready and off I go to make my contribution to the world. I am empowered to live my truth one day at a time.