I have been having a tidy up recently and whilst I love books and paper I am aware that at times a good clear out is needed. I am a person who makes lists and undertakes journaling on a regular basis. Whilst this is not very day, it is rare that a few days go by without me taking time to write something. Typically I have an early morning routine that enables me to take stock, think things through, and write for a few minutes.
I have developed a way that I approach this so that I find value in what I do, and sometimes, it is less in the content and more in the act of writing.
I have met a number of people recently seem to have heard of journaling but wondered what it was. They had thought it may be a good idea but not sure what to do – was there a secret formula to writing something profound or was it part of a master plan to create a new and major piece of literature?
The answer is quite simple – it is just writing something. Now this may seem odd but the process does clear your mind, often something creeps up from nowhere and starts to morph into something. The main value of writing a journal is to clear one’s mind and allow one to start the day with focus.
Sometimes I am asked if I have writers block or just can’t think of anything. Well in the early days I seem to remember that I had to limit my time as I would go off in all directions and write huge amounts, having to stop as I needed to get on with my planned day and appointments. So the reverse was the case.
Occasionally I have had wondered what to write and all I do is start writing – and soon enough, once I have started the action of writing, words just flow, its the act of staring that is important. A little like when we ache or are stiff and feel we can’t walk anywhere – yet once we start things get easier as the muscules start to warm up. It seems to be no different to warming up the muscle of the mind.
The pile of books you see in the picture are a range of the notebooks I have used to write in over the past couple of years. The smaller ones on top are the ones I carry around in my pocket – more about those another time.
After taking the picture I spent a little time rapidly going through the books and soon they were ready for the recycling bin. A friend who came round while these were still on the table was shocked when I said they were going to be thrown away. They had done their job.
And do I read my daily writings – rarely. The process is what I am after not the content.
Do I find my daily writing valuable – yes. And when I don’t do it I miss the clarity and freshness of mind I develop.
So perhaps something to consider?
Need any advice or help just let me know.
My best wishes,
Peter
