Journaling Jems

Journaling Gems Newsletter Archives
Special Edition Posted online during 2002
© 2002, Rosemary Augustine

Journaling to Self-discovery

What is Journaling?

Journaling is a writing method that I have used consistently and successfully for many years. It has helped me in working with clients and myself, in identifying blocks, fears, and other personal and professional issues impacting and/or hindering success to more forward toward one's goals. Looking back over my entire adult life, I've used journaling as a means of getting at the heart of many issues, uncovering patterns and pointing out areas that needed to change. Journaling is not mentally verbalizing the answers to different questions.

What Matters in Journaling?

Writing your response. By writing your answers to questions that come to mind, you create a stream of consciousness that directs you to those answers and more deep inside you. You would never attain such answers by just verbalizing them.

Is there a Right or Wrong Way to Journal?

There is no right or wrong way. Journaling may be in the form of stories, poetry, prose, song/verse, or just plain data dumping.

Sharing is optional and I caution you in sharing your journaling with those who may not understand your journey.

But what if I don't know what to Journal About?

The following are a sample of Journaling Questions to use as a means of getting started and getting in touch with "Self." Journal on each of the following questions for a minimum of 15 minutes by writing whatever comes to your mind during those 15 minutes. Keep the pen to the paper even if you draw a blank. You will find the flow of consciousness begins to unfold as you respond to the question. Allow the words to flow naturally, expressing your thoughts and feelings, and even giving direction to situations you once thought were impossible to consider.

What does work and life balance mean to you?
What purpose does work and life balance serve in your life?
What is your favorite day of the week and why?
List 10 things you like about yourself.
List 3 things you'd like to change about yourself and why?
What do you like or dislike about Mondays?
Describe the elements of the ideal job? - elements may include responsibilities, type of environment, kind of co-workers, kind of boss, flex time, telecommuting, etc.
What does relaxation mean to you?
How have you incorporated relaxation into your life in the last week or month?
Describe the uses of enchantment.
Describe the elements of the ideal life? - elements may include family, friends, home, leisure time, health, diet, emotional well being, spirituality, physical well being, exercise, finances, etc., etc., etc.
List all the obstacles in your way from achieving work and life balance.
Describe why each of these obstacles are in your way.
What can you do to change, adjust, adapt, accept, modify, control or let go of these obstacles - individually or collectively?
How do you let go?

Here's wishing your happy and consistent journaling habits!

Best Wishes,

Rosemary Augustine

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Presented by: Rosemary Augustine
Author of "How To Live and Work Your Passion and Still Earn a Living"
© 2002, Rosemary Augustine