Resources - Exercises to Try

 

 

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Journalling

by Suzanne Trivière

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Lots of people aim to keep a journal but often run out of steam. This is because they have rigid ideas and rules around what journaling should look like.

 

So Rule No 1 is make your journal work for you. It’s a tool to be used as you see fit; the layout and process are yours to own. You can write, scribble, doodle, draw, collage – use different approaches on different days depending on the time you have and the mood you’re in. Respond in your own way.

 

Having said that, here are a few tips that might help to get you started.

 

• Be clear about your purpose

• The tools matter. Find a notebook that you love (Paperchase has lovely notebooks) with the kind of paper that you prefer (plain or lined, cream or white or blue, thick or thin) and a pen that feels good. Anne of Green Gables would never write with a scratchy pen!

• Always carry your journal with you

• You don’t have to write every day

• Create a relaxing routine around the writing process in a space that you love. Light candles, make tea, put some music on…

• Discourage interruptions - warn your family that you are taking you-time and teach them to respect that!

• When you’re really busy make lists: journaling doesn't just have to be writing out your day, especially when nothing eventful happened. Make fun lists (favourite movies, bucket list, etc.) Include quotes you love, make collages with movie tickets, stickers, business cards, etc

• On days that you don’t feel you have much to say go to an app called Brainsparker — it’s got cards with different words or phrases that make you think. Writing prompts in general are great for adding even more creativity to your journal.

 

Journaling is a tool to encourage reflection.  It gives us the opportunity to get back in touch with ourselves and who we are which is both confidence-building and heartening.

 

Give it a try!

 

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/mar/22/how-to-start-journal-writing-drawing