Use a Journal to Stay in Touch with What You Really Want in Life

Many people swear by journaling, and I'm one of them. Some even consider it to be life-changing. That's because this powerful tool has the potential to provide a wealth of benefits. By getting thoughts out of your mind and onto paper, you clear space so that you can focus your energies on important tasks. You're able to work through problems and see patterns that can lead to important insights.

Journaling lets you see the bigger picture and gain a new perspective. This is especially helpful when you're feeling stuck. A journal can provide clarity and help organize your thoughts. I remember hearing someone say something like "I don't know what I think until I hear what I have to say."

Take a look at some ways you can use a journal to stay in touch with what you really want in life. Choose the techniques that work best for you.

Automatic Writing

Automatic writing involves writing down whatever comes to mind. It's best to start with a question or prompt to get you going. You could ask yourself what you need to prioritize in your life right now or what choice you should make with regard to an upcoming transition. Just pick a question and start writing. Don't overthink it. Write whatever comes to mind and keep going.

Gratitude Journaling

Gratitude journaling is a practice you've probably heard of because it's been quite popular for some time. That's probably because it's such a simple way to gain significant clarity and appreciation in life. To keep a gratitude journal, all you have to do is write down three to five things each day that you're grateful for. Try to be as specific as possible and make sure you're consistent in order to achieve the best results. Many people choose to write their gratitude journals before bed to reflect upon their day and to create a routine that's easy to stick with. I find it gives you a good reason to get up in the morning because you have to find your five blessings throughout your day.

Morning Pages

Morning pages is a simple process that involves sitting down each morning to write in your journal. I learned of them through author Julia Cameron's book  The Artist's Way. Morning pages serve as a start to your day, and it clears your mind for what's to come. All you have to do is begin writing in a stream of conscious. Shoot for completing three pages, but the length isn't as important as the process. This exercise can give you a tremendous amount of insight into what you're currently experiencing and where you'd like to go. Give it a try.

These are merely a few suggestions for types of journaling that can bring clarity to your life and help you to figure out what it is you really want in life. Give them a try and feel free to branch out in ways that best suit your personality. You can try drawing or doodling. Following pre-written prompts also works well for some. Just get creative and start writing.

I usually like to write in a pretty journal and have several for different purposes: gratitude journal, travel journals, daily journals, and idea journals. I also have started using a notebook app and a sticky note app because I typically have my phone or a computer nearby...technology makes this easy.

I also use this blog space as a way to organize my thoughts and lessons for A Pilgrimage to Self Lifestyle Coaching Membership. Journaling is a big part of the lessons in the membership because it's a magical process and transformative. 

If you're interested in growing your Gratitude practice, here's our online course for Developing a Gratitude Practice. Here's the link: https://www.ahousewithfourrooms.com/offers/gPvcZBtA

Take some time today to find a beautiful book or download an app on your phone or computer and start connecting to what's on your mind.

Until next time...

Cheers!

Lisa