Tuesday, 28 January, 2025

Self-doubt is one of the major emotions we go through. There are days when we feel overwhelmed and sluggish without any tangible reason. What can you do? Let a rainstorm of words from the heavy dark clouds of emotions and passing thoughts fall on the pages of your notebook. Trust that by the end of two to three pages it will shed light on things you were only partly aware of and it will present possible solutions to your listlessness.
I started doing serious journaling in my early fifties after I changed my professions from teaching to becoming a freelance writer. It felt so good, I wondered why I had not started journaling sooner. Not only was I able to free my mind of distress but my heart also felt lightened.
Writing spontaneously, without worrying about spellings or grammar, is a potent salve for emotional suffering and physical pain. The kind of tool you use is not as important as the process of spurting in words what is happening in your heart and mind.
What is your deep driving desire that you feel passionate about? Write about it over and over again until your own writing nudges you to take that first step. Journaling not only builds hope, but it also provides you answers. The most importantly, it brings you closer to your heart, it connects you to your wise mentor within. Write freely and watch where the practice of honest confession takes you. Keep repeating your dream or desire in your journal until it develops into action, motivates you to take the first step, galvanizes you to act. You turn into words what you think and feel and your words become action.
So write it down. Say it aloud. Visualize it and watch yourself motivated to move boldly in the right direction. Once you visualize yourself doing something you have imagined, your mind begins to work in that action and your heart cooperates.
Acknowledge what you have accomplished already, celebrate it. Begin a healthy new routine that turns the rest of your ordinary day into an extraordinary day. Recognize your positive qualities. This is no ordinary feat. Keep in mind all the good things you are doing for yourself and for others.
Notice all the baby steps you have been taking. By now they have accumulated and feel like a refreshing walk. Just keep at it. Don’t let anyone or anything fizzle out your determination. Let the positive and good vibes float to the surface. Trust you can do it. Believe in yourself. Let me ask you… where are you now? For the last four weeks how much have you practiced and learned?
Lorraine
I’ve been journaling almost everyday. I took a journaling/art class where they recommended drawing, scribbling, coloring over the words to express more feelings. I’ve been doing that and it feels great. Most days I draw or color over my journaled words. One day I did a Chakra-drawing meditation over my journal page and it turned out beautiful. Other days I simply draw snowmen or blue jays or squiggles. Most days I can still read everything I’ve journaled. The pages are colorful, expressive and the art adds to the emotional release of my words.
Madhu B. Wangu
How wonderful! Just w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l-! Please post an image of a page from your journal! Thank you!
Jennifer D. Diamond
Good morning, Madhu! I have a sense of synchronicity with your words, “Notice all the baby steps you have been taking.” because I have been using a mantra “baby steps” while walking on the icy roads of my community this winter. Focusing on my feet while repeating the words “baby steps” over and over helps me overcome my resistance to walking in the cold. I am fortunate to have all of the right protective gear to keep me safe, no matter the temperature. My January has been a time of renewed commitment to my journaling for me! Thank you!
Madhu B. Wangu
Good morning Jenn!
Simple winter walks rejuvenate! But your mindful winter walks with repetition of a mantra seems like a class in itself. How awesome for you to keep this routine and journaling! So proud of you! Love.