Hard Stop: Daily Journaling

When I talk to people about living more intentionally, naturally one of the first questions that I get is "How do I start?"

Easy.?

Grab a journal and a pen.

I’ll wait ??

Journaling is one of the most powerful ways to start living more intentionally.

Journaling allows you to emphasize purposeful reflection, goal setting, gratitude, and self-awareness. The key if this is new to you, is to not make this too arduous or too long/complicated to start. Over the coming weeks I’ll share other prompts, but here are some easy ones to get you reflecting this Wednesday morning.??

• What are your goals for the day?? Think personally and professionally.? On my list today - “Today I will finish the new TBG Insights package language, write a chapter for Hard Stop, and get in an hour hike.”? It's not my full to-do list, but just some high level goals that I want to prioritize. I’m covering priorities for my business, professional development, and physical/mental break.? I also calendarize when these will each happen.
• Daily Affirmations. These are a powerful way to boost your self-esteem, motivation, and overall well-being.? Make them positive, present tense, and personal. Some examples:"I believe in myself and my abilities.""I am capable of achieving my goals.""I take care of my physical and mental health every day.""I trust the journey of my life and where it's leading me.""I am constantly growing and learning."

• Gratitude and Positivity.? This one addition to journaling has had a profound impact on me. Every day I take a moment at the beginning and the end of the day to write something I’m grateful for. These aren’t grandiose, but what I find in the day that makes me appreciate what I have. Example:? “I was able to get up early and write, tidy up a bit, and spend time with the kids over breakfast.”? Plus I loved the smell of my candle while doing all of this. Small moments of our every day life add up. Take time to reflect on those that bring you joy.
• Planning personal growth activities. ?We may not be able to fit in these activities every day, but I’ve found even if I plan out my week and think about when I’ll make time for these personal growth goals I feel better knowing they’re on my calendar. Portuguese class? Scheduled.? Time to write blocked out this week? Yes.? See? I feel calmer knowing my priorities are on my list and I'm creating time for them.?

I didn’t yet share prompts for reflecting on challenges and learning opportunities, reflecting on your values,? your daily mindfulness practice, tracking progress, etc.? Starting something new can be overwhelming, so I find it’s best to focus just on a few areas, get those dialed in, and then slowly add new prompts based on what’s most important to you.

The important part? STARTING.? Getting in the practice of taking time out of your day for self-reflection and there's no easier way to start then taking 10 minutes and grabbing a journal.

Would love to hear how journaling and becoming more intentional about your life has had an impact on you.