Starting a Journaling Practice: Common Blocks and Solutions

Here are some common blocks and solutions for those who may struggle getting started with a journaling practice.

  1. Lack of time: One of the most common blocks to starting a journaling practice is feeling like there’s not enough time in the day to sit down and write. Many people feel like they are too busy with work, family, or other commitments to make time for journaling.

Solution: start small and be realistic about how much time you can commit to journaling each day. Even just five minutes a day can be enough to establish a regular journaling practice. Schedule journaling time into your day, perhaps right after waking up or before bed.

  1. Fear of judgment: Some people are hesitant to start journaling because they fear that what they write will be judged by others, or even by themselves. They worry that their writing won’t be good enough or that they will reveal something embarrassing or shameful.

Solution: remember that journaling is a personal practice, and that no one else needs to read what you write. Write without judgment or self-criticism, and focus on the process of writing rather than the end result.

  1. Lack of inspiration: Some people struggle to come up with ideas for what to write about in their journals. They may feel like they don’t have anything interesting or important to say.

Solution: Start with simple prompts, such as writing about your day or reflecting on a recent event. Journaling doesn’t have to be profound or life-changing; it can simply be a way to document and process your thoughts and feelings.

  1. Perfectionism: Some people may struggle with perfectionism, feeling like they need to write perfectly and eloquently in their journal. They may feel like their writing needs to be polished and professional.

Solution: let go of perfectionism and focus on simply getting your thoughts down on paper. Remember journaling is a personal practice, and that there is no “right” or “wrong” way to do it.

  1. Lack of motivation: Some people may struggle with motivation to continue journaling over time. They may start out strong but then lose interest or momentum.

Solution: set goals for theyour journaling practice, such as writing for a certain amount of time each day or completing a certain number of entries per week. Celebrate small successes along the way, such as completing a week of consistent journaling. Find ways to make journaling more enjoyable and meaningful, such as incorporating creative elements like drawing or collage.

How Can I Avoid Burning Out?

How often do you have days where life is seriously hectic? It seems as though you just can’t seem to get a break.  If its’ not work or running your business, its laundry, shuttling the kids to activities, grocery shopping, preparing dinner, etc. etc… It may seem like there’s not much time in the day to fulfill your lists, much less having some personal time?

Yet intellectually you know that you will be a much better lover, spouse, father, friend and leader if your life has some measure of balance and you take time to relax and rejuvenate. (more…)