We are in the middle of a 30-day Morning Pages journaling challenge, which is a wonderful way to make journal writing a regular habit and stretch our writing muscles every day. The Morning Pages idea comes from Julia Cameron’s classic book, The Artist’s Way:
Morning Pages are three pages of longhand, stream of consciousness writing, done first thing in the morning. There is no wrong way to do Morning Pages, they are not high art. They are about anything and everything that crosses your mind and they are for your eyes only.
Some people are naturally alert, awake and productive first thing in the morning. Others battle the alarm clock every day and can barely get out the door on time for work. If you belong to the latter group, you might be skeptical that Morning Pages can fit into your daily routine. Even if you aren’t a morning person, with a little practice and planning, you can adopt this journaling practice to start your day off right and...accomplish great things!
Morning Pages: Tips For People Who Don’t Like Mornings
1. Be strict with your bedtime.
This is a difficult step if you are a natural night owl, but it is important if you want to wake up well-rested and on time. Do a little math to figure out what time you need to get up in the morning to allow journal writing time. Consider how many hours of sleep you need to feel your best and work backward. Unwind and relax for the last hour before bed – turning off the television and computer – and hold yourself accountable to your new bedtime.
2. Put journaling first.
It can be tempting to check your email or do a few household chores before digging into your Morning Pages, but try to resist and focus on your journaling before any other major tasks.
3. Pair journaling with coffee and breakfast.
Make your Morning Pages part of your daily ritual. If you love a good burst of caffeine in the morning, pour yourself a cup of coffee and fix yourself breakfast, then sit down to write. Think of journaling as another way to refuel for the day.
4. Set a timer.
Remember that Morning Pages are meant to be a quick way to clear your mind before you start your day. Limit yourself to the three pages of free-writing and set a timer for 20-25 minutes as a reminder to stop.
5. Be supportive.
There is no right or wrong way to do Morning Pages. You may think you are scribbling three pages of gibberish, but you are doing something good for yourself every time you sit down to journal. Just let go and see what comes out of your pen!
Here's Stephen P. Smith's take on Morning Pages: How I Do My Morning Pages.
If you want to learn how journaling can help you tackle life's challenges and create strong journaling habits, please download the free eBook, The Journaling Guide to Manage The Stress and Strains of Life.
A daily Morning Pages practice is a key component of better physical and mental health, greater energy, and an overall feeling of well-being. Our 12 Day Guide to Morning Pages is a gentle introduction to the daily habit that will change your life.
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