The Power of Journaling

Journaling helps to put the plans into action. Instead of being wishful thoughts, the idea of actually writing down something gives it substance.

Week 1–"Journaling"

"Write it down, though the vision tarries it will come. Wait for it." Habakuk 2:2

Workable Choices:

• Daily Log Ü Keep a log of the activity for the day.
• Goal Setting Ü Write down the short term goals (realistic) and completion time.
• Future Planner Ü Write down the overall goal and completion time.

Week 2–"Why Keep a Journal?"

A journal is a discipline by which we are able to sort out and read our thoughts and ideas. Discipline Ü Webster's dictionary gives this definition: to punish.
That doesn't sound very encouraging does it?
Explore the definition further and new insights and attitudes begin to evolve:

• to train or develop by instruction and exercise esp. self-control;
• training that corrects molds or perfects the mental faculties or moral character;
• orderly or prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior.

In his book, How to Keep a Spiritual Journal, Ronald Klug identifies the following ten common benefits for keeping a journal. Most of these benefits can be applied to our own personal goals as well:

1. Growth in self-understanding
2. An aid to the devotional life
3. Guidance and decision making
4. Making sense and order of life
5. Releasing emotions and gaining perspective
6. Greater awareness of daily life
7. Self-expression and creativity
8. Clarifying beliefs
9. Setting goals and managing your time
10. Working through problems

Week 3–"The Joy of the Journal"

You plan a vacation -
Make the reservations; chart the course; pack the car; and GO!

How exciting is that? Getting there is half the fun.

Journaling can be the same way. Not only is each completed journal a treasure trove of progress, events and insights, but the daily writing of the journal is just as rewarding.

Journaling everyday requires a certain amount of discipline. As in every area of life when a new behavior is introduced, start gradually Ü maybe ten minutes a day. Reflection on past entries and as writing becomes more fluent, it will encourage you to increase the time.

There is no specific journal pattern to follow, except the pattern that fits you best. Take into consideration your lifestyle, personality, and goals.
It's your time, your plan, your style, your place, and your pace - even your paper preference. Use your journal to plot your course, and keep moving daily toward the vision.

"Death is the reward of an undisciplined life." Proverbs 5:23 (THE MESSAGE)