How do I start writing a journal?
What do I do to keep it going?
Where do I go when I don't know what to write next?
Who can help me when I can't think of anything to write at all?
So with all those questions, it's easy to know why you haven't already begun writing your spiritual journal.
If I may, I'll offer you 7.5 tips that can make getting off the ground breeze-easy.
1. The journal you choose does matter. Pick a journal, a notebook, a pad, a binder, anything that you are not just comfortable with, but that you actually enjoy having, carrying, opening, looking at, using. The more pleasure you derive from the journal itself, the book that will contain your true journal, the easier it will be to become intimate with it. (In fact, the harder it will be not to!)
2. The pen or pencil, quill or crayon with which you write matters too. It should be comfortable in your hand. It should be easy to manipulate as it moves across the page in just the way you want it to. And the glide of your pen's point across the page should offer just the right amount of friction to keep you connected to the words flowing.
3. Time can affect your journal writing, especially at first. To build a routine and get comfortable with the process of opening the journal, taking out the pen, beginning to write, I suggest you set a regular time for writing. It may be best early in the morning or just before you retire. Perhaps shortly after lunch or late in the afternoon. Before long, you will either cherish that writing time or you will have become so comfortable you are writing any time, all the time.
4. Space can make a difference. If you know a set place will contribute to your comfort, provide you interruption-free focus, stimulate your imagination/memory/creative energy, that's the place to write. Chances are space, like time, will become secondary to the pure joy of writing in your journal.
5. Getting started. Don't sweat it. Don't imagine your first writing has to be any great shakes. Write your name. Write how you feel about starting a journal: nervous, excited, uncertain? Write a letter to the first grade teacher who taught you how to write in print. Write anything and be glad you've started. Write me if you wish ideas.
6. Getting started everyday. Or any day. Sometimes, even if you've written in your journal for weeks or months or years, you'll run into a wall. You won't be able to think of anything to write. Write about that. Write, "I can't think of anything to write. I can't think of anything to write. I can't think..." That's probably all it will take. Usually by the third rep, I've thought of something to write. You will too.
7. Banish your editor. Your journal is not a final copy. Ever. It is not even a rough draft to be perused, criticized, raked over the coals. The editor in your head cannot be allowed to sit on your shoulder and watch as you write. The writing is for you. Entirely for you. Not for anyone else unless you want them to see it...but then you probably don't want them to tell you how to make it better. It's fine just as it is.
7.5. Ignore all of the above suggestions (except #7) if they do not "fit" you. And your journal.
I like the 7.5 reasons for journaling. I am working to make journaling a part of my daily routine after the JournalTrek classes. The class expanded my thoughts and ideas of what journaling can be and how to go about it. It was interesting what forms I took as I set my pen to the paper. I came to the class with few expectations and left with surprises of what I came away with. Thank you.
Posted by: Carolyn | February 04, 2008 at 05:27 PM