Just as many people don’t think bowling is a sport (it is, although I”m not dogmatic about it) it wasn’t so many years ago that I thought journaling was not to be put in the same catagory of serious disciplines such as reading.
Yet now, after journaling periodically for several years, I can tell you there is tremendous value in taking the time to write down what you are thinking about the daily challenges you face, your spiritual condition, what you’re learning and funny little things that happen.
Yesterday I took some time to go back over my journaling and look to see what I was learning and thinking back in February of this year. What a revelation to read about the issues and emotions I was handling during that small snapshot of my year.
Some observations I gleaned:
Diet and Exercise plays an important part in my outlook on my day. This is something I often forget when scheduling and in the heat of the battle.
Negative People are a drain. It was interesting to see how many of my entries had to do with my reflections on one or two negative influences in my life. This made me more determined than ever to surround myself with positive people.
More Kids! Everyone has different ways of recharging, but to look at my journal it’s clear that spending time with my boys is the most consistent way to lighten my mood, bring encouragement and help me to relax.
Those insights are likely not helpful for you, or dramatic in any way, but they are insights whose power would have been lost on me had I not read them in my own words through journaling.
Whether you are a non-profit leader, parent, person in recovery, teacher, or business person, everyone can benefit from taking the time to journal.
Here’s how to get started:
1. Buy a good Journal. Moleskins and copycat journals can be foudn for $7-$15. It helps to have a good writing device as well.
2. Set a regular time to write about your day. I don’t recommend any subjects, just see what comes to your mind when you reflect on your day. What is the theme of your day? What was the highlight? How about a challenge or victory?
3. Do it regularly. I regularly journal for a week or two at time, and then I take a break. I’ve journaled for months at a time as well, but there is no need to set unrealistic goals or make journaling a burden.
Today’s Question: Have you ever journaled? Did you find it useful? What would keep you from journaling on a regular basis?
Let me know your thoughts.
David Curry
