As coaches and mentors, we encourage those we support to write their journal, diaries, or thoughts of the day that has gone or thoughts on the day to come. Susan Dennis explores a simple technique to introduce people to the benefits of journaling.
What is the benefit of journaling for well-being?
Perhaps they are re-read years down the line, or perhaps not, it really does not matter. There are tangible health benefits of journaling. Journals serve a purpose of brain dumping, saving our nearest and dearest from having to listen to us. Write things down, thought, process, pen, paper. It does serve to rid ourselves of repetitive thinking, that perhaps is not healthy. Or to help the brain focus on what is truly important to us. Journaling gives us time to reflect and this is why it is often helpful as part of a coaching and mentoring relationship.
Overcome the stress and difficulties with journaling
Many people have trouble with journaling, they fight against it. They have heard it is good, but there are always barriers, not enough time, other more important things to do. In short they have not put enough value on journaling for it to be a priority in their lives. They find it difficult to concentrate on writing their own thoughts down.
This is where Thorn, Bud, Flower comes into play
When starting to journal, think of a moment in the day that was a bit of a Thorn, a bit prickly. Something you did, said, or something someone else did or said. A problem, or issue, write it down. Don’t dwell, just write it down.
Think of a Bud, an idea, a ‘to do’ thing, a concept, just a little thing, something that happened in your day that you can develop. Write it down.
Now think of a moment in the day, that was your Full Flower in Bloom moment, someone was happy to see you, you did something you took pride in, something that brought a smile to your face. Write it down.
The first step to journaling
This is the first steps to journaling, three things to write down: thorn, bud, and watch the flower bloom.
That Thorn in your side of writing a journal, will become your full garden in flower.
How many other Thorns can you turn into Buds, and subsequently Flowers through journaling?
Do get in touch if you would like to discuss your journaling practice or how it can be used as part of a coaching and mentoring relationship.
