Do you ever complain about how there’s not enough time in the day? In today’s world, most of us lead such busy lives that it can seem impossible to set aside even a few minutes to pause, unplug and reflect. Journaling is an activity that does not require much of your time, and yet it yields powerful benefits. Even five minutes a day is enough time to clear your head and re-center your priorities, thoughts and goals.
If you want to get into the habit of journaling but don’t think you can fit it into your schedule, here are a few suggestions on how to begin.
1. Wake Up 5+ Minutes Early
If you feel like you can’t squeeze in a few minutes to journal in your normal day, consider setting your alarm just a little early to do Morning Pages right when you wake up. You can do some reflective writing on the previous day, anticipate the day to come or write about any number of things. What do you have going on today? Is there something you hope will go well? What challenges do you anticipate today? Have you figured out how to face those challenges? Clearing your head during some alone time first thing in the morning can set the tone for the rest of your day.
2. On Your Lunch Break
If you bring your lunch to work and find yourself finishing up with a few minutes to spare, take that time to do some reflective writing instead of surfing the Internet. Half of your workday is gone, so taking this period to write release frustrations or roadblocks could change your whole day for the better. Answering these questions might help: How is your day so far? Is there anything you can do to make this day more productive or enjoyable? What do you have coming up for the rest of the day? Reflect, anticipate, free-write – just journal! You will come back to work in a better mood with a clearer focus.
3. Before You Sleep
Survived the day and ready to get in bed? If you couldn’t find time to journal throughout the day, consider journaling right before you turn out the light to go to sleep. If you have kids, get them tucked into bed, get your pajamas on and crawl under the covers. Then get your journal from your bedside table and reflect on your day. What happened? What’s the good, the bad and the ugly? Was there anything you wish would have gone differently? Are there any changes you can personally make to ensure a better day tomorrow? Summarizing your day and anticipating the next allows you to empty your mind before sleeping, which can help you rest better and feel more energetic the next morning.
When do you find yourself journaling throughout the day? I know you've discovered some reflective writing time pockets of opportunities. Do share in the comments section!
Join us for the 27 Days Life-Changing Journaling Challenge starting on September 1!
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