Uniquely Yours Craft Journal

Dear Fellow Journalers,

Remember when you were in school and  you had  to write  a composition? I remember the teacher, who happened to be a nun, telling us that if we wanted our stories to be unique we had to answer 5 questions within the first paragraphs. Who, what, when, where, and why we’re the guidelines we should follow.

I mention this because I sometimes feel as though I repeat myself in my journaling. If I’m bored or tired I just write the same old stuff. Being one who is creative by nature and wanting to be true to herself, I find this behavior self-defeating. If I find myself writing such things as “nothing much happened today”often I have to verbally stop myself.

So how do we overcome doldrums? I don’t think it matters what type of journal you’re writing – the problem is still the same. What to write about and should I write when I’m bored?

Peach Tree Farms by Charles Wysocki

Above my roll-top writing desk is a framed print called “A Peach of a Day”. The original was painted by  a well-known artist by the name of Charles Wysocki. The picture always makes me happy. I try to surround myself with things like that -a scented candle, a lighthouse themed quilt, a mason jar mug of the beverage of the day. But still, sometimes I have problems writing.

Experts have different techniques that help with this issue. I have, on occasion followed some:

• Go for a walk.Sometimes nature can sooth our souls. If impossible, due to weather, watch a nature or travel show on TV.
• Knowing the best time for you to write in your journal is a good thing. Try experimenting say write in the early morning or at lunch for a different spin.
• Listen to an audio book.
• Pick up your favorite book and read one chapter. More than that and you’ll finish the book!
• Create some art. When was the last time you added any “bling” to your journal cover?
• Watch a TED talk.
• Make a self-care kit for when you have a bad day.
• Do you often go by a certain restaurant or store and never stop to browse? Now’s your excuse.
• Try writing in your journal at a coffee shop or outside.
• Color a page in a coloring book.
• Practice mindfulness.
• Do a random act of kindness for someone.
• Visit the library and bring home some awesome books.
• Write about your present moment.
• Maintain a success log.(Your accomplishments no matter how big or small) For instance, I drove in the pouring rain at 2am to the hospital. (I don’t like driving at night and especially don’t like driving when I don’t know how to get where I’m supposed to be).
• Write in the third person. For instance, “Kelly woke up at 8 am” not “I woke up at 8 am”.
• Write in a different pen color.
• Make a list of things to buy or do.
• Try writing in your non-dominate hand.

Finally, JUST WRITE!

~Sallie

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