Stephanie Staples presents - Journal On

I'm talking about journaling. Before you turn the page—wait—this isn't your grandmother's diary. Journaling in 2010 can look completely different. Although a lovely journal and perfect pen are great, if online is your preference, that's OK. A daily commitment
is wonderful, but if you just want to write when the urge strikes, that's OK, too. If you want to write about whatever pops into your head, great; if you prefer to have questions to guide you and get you started, that's super!

What journaling isn't is a daily must, a confessional that you pray will not be read by others, and it shouldn't be a chore. 

Journaling is a proactive tool for better living and for self-awareness. It can be spiritual, emotional, factual or even fictional. Today's journal has no rules! 

Here are three types of journaling that I invite you to consider trying:
Health journal: Write in the date and details of your last physical, blood tests, periods, illnesses, surgeries, medications and pains. Document your medical history as well as those of relevant family members. We think we will remember these things, but as the years pass, they all become a jumble. It is in our own best interests to have all this important information in one spot.

Gratitude journal: At the beginning or the end of the day, write a few things you are grateful for. At the dinner table, send a book around for everyone to write something they appreciate (our family had been doing this since 2007—It's so much fun to look back to see things they were thankful for!). Doing this puts your mind in a different place and allows what you are focusing on (the good stuff!) to expand. 

Personal journal: Document your trials and tribulations, your wins and successes. Write out and work through your challenges, envision your goals, clarify areas that you feel stuck on, have "practice" conversations. Jot down your ideas, but do not censor or edit them—this is not the place for that. Just write. There is no right or wrong, there is no judgment. This is just for you!

Even for just 10 minutes a few days a week (dare I say every day?), this will help your ideas become words, and your thoughts become things. Ten minutes of your time will help you decompress, ideate, brainstorm, problem-solve and focus–that's a pretty good investment of time, don't you think?

Stephanie Staples is an award-winning speaker and coach who helps people live their lives with full gusto! Get the Your Life, Unlimited Guided Journal FREE at her new website: www.YourLifeUnlimited.ca.