JournalOver the years, I have discovered numerous benefits from the practice of journaling.   Several years ago I changed to journaling online, but I’ve switched back to analog.  My good friend James Wilson shared with me the concept of the Bullet Journal and I liked the concept, but I also liked my current practice of journaling online.   About six months ago I adopted Bullet Journaling and I love the practice.

If you’re considering journaling?” Here are some practical benefits:

  1. Process events. What happens to me is not as important as the meaning I assign to what happens to me. Journaling provides an opportunity for reflection to process my experience.
  2. Clarify your thinking. Writing in general helps me sort out my thoughts. Since I am not communicating in front of a “live audience,” I can think through the issues.
  3. Understand your context. Life happens so quickly I usually have little time to stop and reflect on where I am.  Journaling helps me to discern the difference between the forest and the trees.
  4. Understand feelings.  Journaling enables to get in touch with my feelings and the reasons behind those feelings.
  5. Connect with your heart. Journaling helps me to monitor the condition of my heart. Solomon warns us, “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life” (Proverbs 4:23).
  6. Record significant lessons.  I am able to reflect upon key events to an even deeper understanding and chronicle a record of items for prayer.
  7. Ask significant questions.  A journal is a place to raise questions and explore issures of interest.

Since I was content with my current practice, then why did I change to the Bullet Journal?   Their motto caught my attention, “Track the past, organize the present, and prepare for the future.”  I have discovered that the analog practice of writing enables me greater freedom (e.g. mind mapping) and the opportunity to integrate all aspects of my life.  I’m able to record my  Bible reading, workout log, prayer list, upcoming events, and tasks in one convenient place.

A journal facilitates the practice of reflection and enables me to stay on top of the demands and priorities of my life.  I chose the Leuchtturm 1917 hardcover and love its features – it contains a table of contents and the pages are numbered.  Combine that with a good pen and writing becomes a joyful experience.

This link  will take you to the Bullet Journal website and this link will provide you with an article about the Bullet Journal.  These links will provide you with the necessary information to get started or feel free to contact me and I’ll be glad to discuss with you the joy of journaling.

Then the LORD answered me and said, “Record the vision and inscribe it on tablets, that the one who reads it may run.”  (Habbakuk 2:2)

 

RickAssociate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

Follow me on twitter:  rickhiggins5