How to Reap the Benefits of Journaling

Most of us have been writing since kindergarten. We all write in some form or fashion just about everyday. We write thank-you notes and birthday cards. We write to colleagues, family and friends by e-mail. We write checks to pay bills and purchase goods. We even write journal entries into our scrapbooks. Writing really isn't the problem. However, writing our deepest thoughts and feelings? Now that can be a challenge!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Your favorite writing tool
• A notebook or journal

1. Writing is the only requirement: Nothing happens until you put pen to paper and start pushing. If you need some motivation, try changing your environment. If you are a nature person, try writing outdoors. If you need a sturdy desk and an ergonomic chair, then start there. Light a candle or brew a cup of tea. Whatever inspiration you need to motivate you, simply do it.
2. Try the 10-minute rule: Many seasoned journalers say that you should write for at least 10-15 minutes. I personally just write until I have nothing left to write. If you want a guideline for journaling, use this as a starting point. After 10-15 minutes, see how you feel. If you want to continue, then do so.
3. No censoring allowed: Just write! Don't stop, don't edit, don't spell check, don't cross out ... just keeping moving your pen. When you focus on the grammar and content, you are interrupting your brain' s natural flow and blocking the deep expression from your heart—which is where you really want to be. Go with the flow!
4. make journaling personal Make it personal: Your writing tools should be a personal choice. Use whatever makes you the most comfortable when you sit down to write. Some people like the black and white school composition notebooks. Others use a decorative spiral-bound journal. Base your decision on personal preference.
5. Stop the guilt: Stop writing if it feels like drudgery. This should not become a burden for you. This is not to be a required or mandatory practice. It should be a natural extension of your daily activities.

Tips & Warnings

• The writing is easy—it's the occurring that's hard. ~Stephen Leacock
• Putting pen to paper lights more fire than matches ever will ~Malcolm Forbes
• Once you get started, chances are good that you'll become addicted!