Journaling Simplified For People In Hurry

Let's face it. The 2020s are about journaling, self-care and discovering your potential. However, are we ready to commit?

It is supposed to be fun and bring you joy, however, when I talk to people about it, the majority tells me that even though they clearly see the benefits of journaling, they are procrastinating, because it feels like a chore. And I get it. When I get home after 8-9 hours of work + minimum 2 hours of commute I can barely formulate my thoughts. So sitting down with pen and notebook does not necessarily seem like an enjoyable thing to do.

So today's post is about simple journaling for you and me, people in a hurry, who do not have extra 45-60 minutes a day to journal.

Go with the flow.

You do not have to have a dedicated journal. Even though it is pretty and fancy, if it does not work, let it go. Keep your thoughts at an accessible place. Think notes on your desktop, sticky notes or notepad, or even your phone.

Remember, journaling has to be consistent, but you do not have to do it at dedicated time. Did you feel an inspiration at your lunch break? Write it down. Feeling grateful because your coworker brought a succa plant matching your desk? It's a gratitude time. Journal when the right opportunity arrives.

Start with gratitude.

In order to create a healthy, positive mindset start with what you already have. The power of Gratitudes is underrated. It can be anything big and small in your life you appreciate and grateful for.

Even if you are having a somewhat bad day, there are always things you should be thankful for. Like your health. Or the warmth of your bed. Or that slice of pizza you ate. You know, even the tiniest things count.

Also do not be negative Nancy, and spread the gratitude. Did a stranger compliment your bag on your way to work? Say "thank you", and really mean it. Did barista at Starbucks tell you about the upcoming happy hour? Well, they have just saved you some money, didn't they? So be grateful. And right it down in your notes. When you look through notes later, these little messages to yourself will make you smile and remind you that our world is actually a pretty awesome place.

You live and you learn.

I am not a believer in all this "learn a new thing every day". It just sounds too general and too ambitious. Can I learn French in a day? I don't think so. However, I probably can learn how to say "how are you?" in French in less than a day. And that is something.

Also, learning does not have to be about knowledge or skill. Maybe, you've learned an important life lesson today, and perhaps it is even more important to you than learning how to play the ukulele. So write it down when you have a chance. And it can be as simple as:

"Today I have learned that microwaving burrito in aluminum foil is a strong NO".

The word of the day.

In a sophisticated world of mindfulness it is called an intention. However, if it does not vibe with you, call it "the word of the day". I recommend to select yours in the beginning of the day, perhaps when you are waking up and still laying in bed. Just ask yourself: "What do I want today to be about?" And the right word will come. Do not think too hard. It can be "kindness", "confidence" or even "party". Do not overanalyze it. Whatever comes to you is good enough. Write it down so you can remember, and spend your day cherishing this word. Act through the prism of that word. It will be enjoyable, I promise.

Conclusion

So here are three things you should journal about:

- what are you grateful for today?

- what did you learn/discover today?

- what is your word of the day?

Have A Magical Day!

Olesya