Is there any doubt that this journal-writer has major issues concerning death and other ending issues? And, do you notice lack of happy events? After this diarist created stepping stones, she then wrote about each, realizing how many unresolved issues she carried with her—and how they impacted her ability to be happy.

As you do this exercise several times over months or years, you’ll find your choice of events changing. Sometimes your first love affair is most important thing on list, and other times it won’t make top 10 or 12 at all. Why? Because list reflects issues that cry out for attention.

When you’re comfortable with this technique, try using it for specific topics, like stepping stones of your weight issues, or relationships, or spiritual growth. Don’t be afraid to experiment.

Good writing!

2. Title your dreams, like The Monkey Attacked Cow, Airplanes Explode over North Pole, or Jack Won’t Stop Pulling My Hair. Over a period of time, you’ll probably find recurring themes, like dreams with spiders, or plane crashes, or being chased.

3. Briefly note day’s events. If you write down any irritations, worries, angers, or heightened emotions you had during day, you may be able to see a clear correlation between day’s events and your dreams.

4. Record your dream in as much detail as possible, including emotions you experienced during dream, AND emotions you experienced in recording dream. Feel free to illustrate your dream, either through a drawing or photograph.

5. List important keywords from your dream. These might be words like love, hero, flying, snakes, puppies, peace or death.

6. Interpret dream. Without using devices like a dream dictionary, try to interpret what you feel dream was about. Was it about being trapped, breaking free, venting strong emotions, taking a journey, or?? There is no right or wrong answer—so allow yourself freedom of speculating on a meaning.

7. Look for recurring themes. Once a month, look back through your dream journal, searching for repeating patterns. If you find one, your inner self is trying its best to give you an important message. Don’t forget to look for patterns in your list of important keywords.

Sweet dreams!