Journaling

1. Journaling

2. What is Journaling? • A journal is a means of keeping a log or record of activities. • It refers to the practice of recording one's personal experiences, events and emotions • It is a technique used for reducing stress and/or to develop your self awareness/insights into yourself. • It is a personal way to express your self.

3. Why is Journaling Important? • Journaling provides for recording your short-term, medium-term and long- term goals and what you want to achieve in your life • Enables developing self awareness through inner exploration, as well as a place to express your deepest self, without fear of criticism or ridicule. • Journaling allows you to clarify your thoughts and feelings, thereby gaining valuable self-knowledge.

4. Why is Journaling Important cont. • It’s also a good problem-solving tool; oftentimes, one can hash out a problem and come up with solutions more easily on paper. • View a short clip on journaling • http://www.howcast.com/videos/284602-How-To-Keep-a-Diary

5. How to Journal • Find a journal medium that's perfect for you (a notebook, 3-ring binder, etc). • Find the perfect place (or places) for writing in your journal. • Find a time that's right for you. • Relax/Breathe to help you think clearly. • Use a journal to work through the hard stuff. • Write down how you feel • Vent your problems • Describe how things went • Keep writing until you feel you are done • Fill your journal with whatever you want (pictures, doodles, etc.) • Go back and re-read your entries to see how you have grown/changed

6. Questions to Ask • When facilitating a Journaling Activity ask the following types of questions: • What did you learn in class today? • How do you think you can apply this to your life? • What are you willing to try/change this week? • What went well this week and why? • What did not go well this week and why? • What will you change? • What do you need more help with?