In 2015 I did a 30-day love challenge found on an email which consists of writing three words of what you love each day. The concept was meant for journaling and it was my first time journaling. Without knowing what will come from it, I created a beautiful and positive mindset of my life and my soul.Â
The Journaling Challenge
Out of 30 days, I had one bad day. So as the challenge ended, I challenged myself. Do 100 more days of the love challenge with up to three words each day. It became a goal each day, not a chore. As the 100 days were nearing, I looked back on all the days with laughter and smiles.
During the 100 days, without any knowledge, I was forming a new project. Those words each day would be gathered into a list for subjects for my personal projects – photography, painting, design, etc. I still have the list and look at it monthly. Writing became a creative outlet to recess stress and put passion onto paper. It is not a career change.Â
New Beginnings for 2021
During the quarantine of 2020, writing powerful thoughts of experience and creative ideas was a fulfillment for me the whole year.
Not one to make resolutions? Not one to be focused on that 5 year or 10 year plan? Same here. I got plans but redirect and refocus are possible for a better self. Change is hard. 2020 hit hard. As another year ended, a new year started with fresh beginnings and a beautiful outlook.
Ways to start your Journaling Journey
Getting started on your journaling journey can be confusing or even scary. Here are some ways to get the ball rolling.
1.)Â Purchase a new pen and new notebook
A fresh start begins with happy items. There are lots of fun journals in the market so choose your liking – blank pages, pages with lines, pages with quotes and colors.
2.)Â Look into a 30-day writing challenge
There will be a lot of information so if you get overwhelmed, put a focus on one topic or write from the heart. Grab some tea or drink of choice to further focus on your goal. There are so many writing challenges out there, just find one that sounds interesting to you.
3.)Â Plan a schedule
It is important to note that things can change and will change often. Work around your schedule to make sure you hold yourself accountable.
4.) Give yourself a deadline
Most challenges have a deadline for the day. You can follow it or adjust it for yourself. I schedule a monthly note to check the list. This is mainly to add to the list but sometimes it is just for inspiration.
5.) See the beauty of progress after weeks or months
Journaling has helped take all the sadness away and place happiness back in my soul. All within one page of a notebook. Personal projects have given me a way to express myself and think outside the box within my opportunities. Give it a try and happy writing!Â