I am going to come right out and say it: I am a grown man and I love to journal.
Ever since I discovered journaling, I found it is a great way to keep track of my goals and declutter my thoughts. Especially after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, I have found journaling to be one of my best defenses against a negative mind.
We all need a way to get thoughts out into the open, and to make sure that we are continuously improving in our lives. I am a strong advocate of letting a journal be your guide to self improvement and thought clarity.
Below is an outline of how I use my journal, enjoy!
Part 1: 5 minute journal
First of all, I do not want to take credit for this part of my journal. For part 1 of my morning journalling I follow the 5 minute journal. Below is an outline of the process:
What are 3 things that you are grateful for?
In this section write down 3 things that make you grateful. The key here is that as you write, make sure you pause and really feel a sense of gratitude for each thing. I find the longer you pause and really visualize what you are grateful for, the happier you become.
What are 3 things you want to get done today?
In this section write down 3 things that would make today great. Write these three things with the intent to get them done thought the day. I find this is a great way to get my mind set on how I can make the day successful.
What is your daily affirmation?
In this section write an affirmation that will stick with you throughout the day. This affirmation could be something as simple as “I am a happy person”. Think of the person you want to be throughout the day and create a moto for yourself.
Part 2: Learning
The second part of my journaling practice involves making sure I learn something every day.
I start by writing down any thoughts on how I am feeling, or how the previous day went. I than follow these thoughts with something I learned the day before. I try to read non-fiction, or listen to podcasts every day. I find that if every day I write what I learn, by the end of the year I have a collection of great lessons. It is a great way to review your year.
What are your journal practices?
Disease Cant Stop Me, I hope it can’t stop you.
Dave
