Comparing and Contrasting

It is said that what we see in others we cannot recognize if we don't also recognize at least some aspect of it within ourselves. We are all mirrors reflecting each other to varying degrees. Keeping this in mind reflect on person(s) in previous exercises that you admire most and least. What characteristics of these people do you see also within yourself? How does this manifest and how does this make you feel?

Word Association:

For following people, write first word that comes to your mind. Don't put a lot of thought into it; just write first word that comes to your mind for each one. If one is not applicable, skip it and move on to next. If there are people who you would also like to include, feel free to add them to list.

Spouse Mother Father Grandmother Grandfather My Best Female Friend My Best Male Friend My Nearest Neighbor My Pet Me

Once you have done this exercise with all of people you wish to include, reflect on your answers. Who received most positive response? Were any of your answers critical? If so what does this say to you? Are their issues that need to be forgiven with this person(s)?

The above exercises are a good start for those who want to use writing as a healing tool on their journey of self-discovery. Writing and power of written word should never be underestimated; they can help us change our destiny.

*Mood Journals

The benefit of this style of journal is to track our emotions and find reasons for different emotional shifts, mood swings etc. For people with anxiety disorders, depression, or shifting hormones, these types of journals provide tremendous benefits in being able to look at effects of various elements. Record in this journal your feelings, why you are having them, and anything that may be having an effect such as diet, medication, stress levels etc.

*Quotations Journals

These journals are wonderful for a variety of reasons. Use them as a quick pick-me-up, sparks for writing, or to inspire others. These journals are simplest to keep because it only takes a moment to add a quote or phrase to your collection. Let this fun journal keep you inspired.

*Writer Sparks Journals

For those of us who love to write, this journal can be a great tool for dealing with writers block and keeping creative juices flowing. Ever noticed how those great ideas always seem to pop up at inopportune moments? Have you ever just sat there staring at blank screen wishing something would come out? Keeping a small notebook/journal with you can help you to record these little ideas as they come up, or you can jot down your idea and add it later. Whenever you want to write, open up your journal and out pops some great material to get you started.

*Electronic Calendars/Journals in one

In electronic age we are provided with a whole new set of options. Our planners and organizers can also be incorporated into journaling through different software programs that allow you to keep your information encrypted and safe from prying eyes. This is a convenient way to keep everything organized in one centralized location, and can keep even severest procrastinator in habit of keeping notes.

These are just a few examples of many different styles of journaling. Everyone can find a method or combination of methods that works well for them. Now that you have seen benefits, various style ideas, and keys to successful journaling I hope you will be inspired to use writing as healing tool it can be.