JOURNALING - YOU BECOME THE TEACHER
I’ve been a huge fan of journaling, for years. In fact anything to do with stationery gets me all warm and fuzzy. Opening up a brand new notebook, full of possibilities - I love it. So it was no surprise that I enjoyed journaling… until I let it slide.
Becoming a mother changed all of that. As I started to transition from my life before kids (LBK) to my new life, settling into motherhood, writing has become key to my mental health and that’s why I use it in all of my coaching. I make sure that I’m there to support with the tools but then it’s over to the group to open up their minds and inner thoughts.
There are many different ways in which you can journal. You can use prompts. You can draw. You can just write and many in between. They all have different benefits and suit different moods but creating a habit is the important thing. The beauty of it is that over time, you discover your own voice.
Not the negative, unhelpful voice that we hear so often. That I view as the false voice. It’s not really me and it doesn’t reflect my thoughts or feelings. You hear the real you. The kind, compassionate, non-judgemental guide that can help you to get out of your own way. This is the voice that you are unlocking and turning up.
Have you heard of the phrase trust your gut? This is what you are sharpening. The ability to reset and listen to that internal compass that we often drown out and ignore. When you hear that true voice coming through, that’s when things really start to change.
My go-to journaling styles:
Morning Pages
From Julia Cameron herself! The OG of journaling. I completed The Artist’s Way not too long ago and one of the things that really has stuck with me, is my morning pages. If it often feels like the climb out of bed is punishing, then this could be for you.
Starting off the day with a beautiful morning ritual that creates space before the day kicks in. Journaling first thing in the morning is a ritual that you can use to clear out your mind, build up your self-worth, strength and confidence. It can also help you create neural pathways for greater creativity (yep, I’m looking at all of you that need some decent problem solving skills!) and productivity through your day. I light up some incense, get a mug of coffee, open up a window and write it all out. Do this ritual before getting the kids up, checking social media, emails or the news!
Guided Journaling
I use this when I want to get a little insight. Think of this as gently inquiry. You use prompts to dig out the information that sits deep down in the subconscious that can help you to make decisions, get in touch with your emotions or just get a little clarity. I also do this when I need comfort. I’ll write out things, places or write to people that I can’t speak to or go to.
So what are you waiting for. Go grab a pen and paper. Get comfy and start writing.