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Aloha,
How is it almost (American) Thanksgiving already? I can’t believe it. I’m looking forward to being a good guest and eating lots of food, although I’m trying to be more sensible in my portions. Age and genetics are doing a number on me, so I’m trying to be better.
Thanksgiving is probably my favorite holiday type dinner, even from when I was a wee Gilly. So, you can imagine how life-changing it was when we first moved to Las Vegas (almost 20 years ago, gulp!), and discovered the Bobbie, by Capriotti’s. You mean I can have Thanksgiving dinner year-round in a sandwich format? Yes, please!
This week, I discuss writing for personal reasons, because how many times have you seen something on social media and thought, “you could’ve saved that for your journal.” Let’s go!
Table of contents
- What I’m feeling now
- This week’s article
- More from Writeropolis Media
1. What i’m feeling now
- Feeling: Cold.
- Listening: “True” by Spandau Ballet.
- Playing: Disney Dreamlight Valley.
- Reading: “Nine Gates: Entering the Mind of Poetry” by Jane Hirshfield.
- Watching: Bob’s Burgers.
2. Is journaling right for everyone? Let’s not ask the people who hate writing
Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. However, it’s not suitable for everyone.
It’s because many people view writing as a sacred form of expression, but let’s be honest: it’s not! It can also be unpleasant.
There have been times in my life when journaling felt like a chore, because the words I wrote were an uncomfortable reflection of my mental state at the time. So, I decided to take a break until I felt ready to confront those feelings.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, that’s perfectly okay. Remember, no one will read this but you, so feel free to express your thoughts, opinions, and feelings however you like.
With that in mind, here are some reasons why people shouldn’t feel pressured to journal.
1. Limited Bandwidth
People who struggle to focus on a single task for an extended period might find journaling frustrating. Those with wandering minds might find it challenging to stay on track with their writing.
Freewriting might help with this drawback. Freewriting means writing nonstop for a set amount of time. You shouldn’t worry about grammar, spelling, or the topic. Also, journaling isn’t a formal exercise, so try changing the approach to whatever feels suitable in the moment.
2. Uncomfortable feelings arise
Journaling encourages self-reflection and honesty. If you’re not comfortable getting to a deeper level of your emotional journey, journaling can feel uncomfortable.
Writing about topics beyond the self might help. Jot down your thoughts on current events, a favorite TV show, a book you’re reading, or anything else that resonates emotionally.
3. Resistance to change
Journaling might be less effective for those who are uncomfortable with change. The act of journaling requires a willingness to reflect on life and can help identify unusual patterns. If you’re not ready to confront these challenges head-on, journaling feels more like a chore, like I did.
To look at this drawback differently, consider writing about your resistance to change. Why do you fear change? What do you think will happen if you do? Exploring this resistance can help shift a personal perspective.
4. Emotional discomfort
Writing can provoke intense emotions, regardless of the topic. For individuals diving into journaling for the first time or returning after a long hiatus, it will more than likely be wildly uncomfortable.
To navigate this discomfort, try writing about these feelings in a detached manner. The goal is not to suppress or ignore these feelings but to recognize and understand them. Avoid judging these emotions; instead, observe them. What do they feel like? What messages do they convey? By acknowledging these emotions without judgment, they might feel less intimidating with time.
3. More from Writeropolis Media
My loneliness ain’t killing me no more
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