To make journalling engaging consider its benefits.
Having the privilege of working closely with many incredible women, I’ve witnessed a recurring pattern where they tirelessly push themselves to the point of burnout. This often stems from an unconscious commitment to external expectations rather than making intentional choices. Journaling, in my experience, offers a deeply personal path to navigate our lives, make decisions with mindfulness, and rediscover our authentic selves. Join me in this blog as we explore the beautiful art of journaling and uncover its transformative power for self-discovery and intentional living.
Recently, I was in a small group of women where the topic of journaling surfaced. Anticipating common sentiments about time constraints or a lack of affection for the practice, I was taken aback when a significant number expressed an active dislike for journaling.
Intriguingly, during our discussion, many recounted having a diary in their youth but never finding it worthwhile. Their experiences illuminated the reason behind their aversion to journaling – the mundane act of jotting down daily breakfast routines seemed uninteresting, creating negative associations. These women were never encouraged to infuse their journals with their hearts, ideas, and thoughts in a meaningful way.
As I left the group that night, the realisation saddened me. It became evident that for many, writing wasn’t as cherished as it is for me. Despite personal writing preferences, journaling could be a universally accessible and beloved practice. This revelation sparked a question: How can we make journaling more enjoyable for women, or at least encourage them to give it a chance.
In this blog, I aim to delve into the untapped potential of journaling and inspire more adult women to embrace it. Along the way, I’ll share seven key insights to keep in mind as you contemplate picking up your pen and letting your thoughts flow onto paper.
Get Intimate with Yourself:
Committing to a journaling practice is a powerful way to understand the unfolding events in our lives. By taking the time to slow down and face our emotions, we can make decisions that align with our desires and needs. Without this introspection, decisions tend to conform to societal expectations rather than being driven by our authentic selves.
Setting the Intention:
Making your journaling practice meaningful starts with setting clear intentions. Your journal is a sacred space, and on its front page, express the ‘real why’ behind integrating this exercise into your lifestyle. Sign it as a commitment to the journey ahead, creating a beautiful energy that strengthens your connection to your journal.
To enhance the results of your journaling, it’s crucial to ground yourself in truth and soul. Consider incorporating a minute of deep breathing or a brief prayer into your routine. This ritual provides a spiritual foundation, fostering a deeper connection with your inner self and amplifying the impact of your journaling practice.
Explore why Journaling Matters and What It Brings to Your Life
Journaling, at its core, is a unique and personal voyage. It’s perfectly fine if journaling isn’t for everyone, but I believe there is inherent value in adopting this practice if only to carve out a moment of tranquillity in our hectic lives. Reflect on the potential benefits that journaling could bring to your life and explore ways to seamlessly incorporate this practice into your routine. Customise it to align with your preferences, and you might discover a newfound appreciation for the art of journaling.
Embarking on your journaling journey involves choosing a style that resonates with you. Three common and impactful ways to begin are:
Gratitude journaling:
Take a moment towards the end of each day to list five things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can increase happiness by 25%, creating a positive shift in your perspective and inviting abundance into your life.
Present moment reflection:
Dedicate quality time daily to reflect on your emotions without judgment. This practice allows you to explore your feelings, fostering emotional awareness and connecting you with your innate wisdom. Particularly effective during your menstrual cycle, it provides a valuable tool for self-discovery.
Navigating resistance:
Maintaining a consistent journaling practice can be challenging, especially when the mind is preoccupied, or time is scarce. One effective approach to capture your current emotional state and life events is by engaging in a “Top 5 Highs and Lows” exercise.
Reflect on the positive aspects of your life during this season. Consider what you love, the enjoyable moments, or simple pleasures such as relishing ice cream or witnessing a beautiful sunrise.
Alternatively, shift your focus to acknowledge the top 5 challenges you are currently facing. Identify the aspects that are difficult, painful, or causing stress. Simply list them without elaborate details. This uncomplicated exercise can help you overcome resistance and ensure that your journaling remains a valuable and accessible practice.
Break Free from Daily Expectations:
No Need for Daily Commitments: My personal journal, resembling a traditional “diary,” is a seasonal companion. I engage with it as needed, particularly during periods when emotions run high and require processing. While there are phases in life where daily entries flow effortlessly, there are also stretches lasting weeks or months when the journal remains untouched. The flexibility is intentional – it’s designed to be a supportive tool for you, adaptable to your needs. Discover a rhythm that suits you, without feeling any insistence to maintain a constant, unyielding commitment.
Free Writing:
Set aside dedicated time each week to write freely about anything without censorship. This process, undertaken with full devotion, can unveil buried questions in your subconscious, fostering clarity and creativity. It’s a significant step in birthing new ideas and perspectives.
Personalising Your Practice:
Tailor your journaling practice to suit your preferences and needs. The author, for instance, journals dreams and sets daily intentions every morning, dedicating an hour each week to deeper reflection. Find a rhythm that resonates with your inner self, blending structure with flexibility.
Conclusion:
Journaling is a profound tool for self-discovery, offering a gateway to connect with both your inner girl and inner wise woman. Through intentional practices like gratitude journaling, present moment analysis, and free writing, you can transform your perspective, gain clarity, and embark on a journey of personal growth. Make journaling a cherished part of your routine and let it nurture your soul.
Now, I invite you to share your thoughts! How has journaling impacted your life? What practices resonate with you? I’d love to hear from you – send me an email at: [email protected]