Baltimore Life Coaching – Christina Watson
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Archive for October, 2010
Effective Journaling
October 27, 2010 @ 9:33 pm
What is Journaling?
Journaling is a means to express yourself through writing, for the purpose of healing and growth. It is an activity that allows you to unburden yourself without engaging others or speaking your thoughts.
Why Journal?
Journaling gives us perspective on ourselves and our lives. Because thoughts travel in a linear fashion, it's hard to see the big picture when listening to your own thoughts. When you can write it down and look at it later, you can see yourself from a distance. And then you can make adjustments as needed. For me, there are times that I don't want to speak what is on my mind, since I want to "be impeccable" with my word, as suggested by Don Miguel Ruiz in the Four Agreements. I can work it out in my journal without speaking at all.
Journaling also helps you to gain a longer view. You can verify your progress. When you see the goals that you were reaching for years ago are reality now, it increases confidence and faith.
Journaling can be good for your health. It's been shown to be a great stress-reliever, and we all know the benefits of less stress. Emptying your "worry bucket" can take a huge load off your mind (and your other organs!)
Effective Journaling
In order to get the most out of your journaling, the most personal growth, here are some questions to ask yourself that will uncover what is going on with you. (Remember the first step to healing or overcoming anything is awareness.)
- Why did I do that?
- Why do I feel that way?
- Where does that come from?
Annoying as it may be for perfectionists (who get caught up in the editing) or people with ADD (who don't take well to writing exercises) the benefits to persevering in this self-discovery tool are many. To recap here are a few benefits of journaling: gain clarity, solve difficult problems, alleviate stress, heal emotional wounds, track progress, realize gratitude, reduce worry and grow spiritually.
I have always used pen and notebooks, but I am trying out right now this journal software. There are several out there that you can try for free, this one has a 45-day trail period and looks good: The Journal
Feel free to let me know how you liked it. 
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