Journalling for a better you in 2019

Question

Dear Ask AFETT:

I started my journey to self-discovery and professional development in 2018. I am working to ensure that my 2019 is better than last year in terms of achieving my professional goals. Can you share with me one way that I can improve myself?

Sincerely,

Newbie

Dear Newbie,

Congratulations; you have made it through 2018. Here's hoping that 2019 will be a great and exciting year. To do this, it is important to reflect and have strategies to improve yourself.

Here is one great option: journalling.

Every day, a series of events and circumstances occur; some are avoidable and some are deliberate. However, you need to take account of all the activities within your day to ensure that the following days are much better than the last and journalling is one way to keep track of your day.

Writing things down is a great practice to keep your thoughts, ideas and visions in a collected place. Take at least 30 minutes each day to record the events of the day, whether it is chronological or topical. Use it as an opportunity to reflect on your actions, plan your life goals and express your gratitude. Dig deep and express your emotions whether happy, angry, sad, or frustrated; just write it down. Always find the silver lining in all the situations and the lessons you can learn from the experiences.

There are several reasons why journalling can be important for your personal development.

Emotional release: this a great way to cope with your stress, express your feelings and explore the positivity of the situations. Do not be afraid to "lay it all out" on the page. It will help you identify your emotional triggers.

Personal planning: allows you to keep track of your daily goals, ideas and visions. It helps unclutter the brain and gives you a clear view of your daily accomplishments.

Gratitude: this is a great reminder of the good things in your life, whether it is the people and/or resources. Write down at least three things that you appreciate each day.

You can combine all structures to have a very comprehensive account of your day. However, no structure is greater than the other. Choose the structure that works for you and do not be afraid to change it up from time to time.

To start the process: buy a diary or a notebook dedicated to journaling. If you are more digitally inclined, you can download an app that is functional and effective such as "Journey: Diary, Journal" or "Daylio – Diary, Journal, Mood Tracker."

Be consistent. Set aside times for your entries whether it is before you sleep, early in the morning or throughout your day. Therefore, it is a great idea to keep your journal within reach.

Remember to review your entries. This is a major part of the process which helps you to reflect, renew and restore.

Journalling can change your life in many ways, it is an excellent way to improve your thoughts, behavioural patterns and discipline levels. It allows you to keep a record of your day which can produce great stories to inspire others. Take time out of your day to write your thoughts. Dig deep within yourself and find the lessons throughout your journey.

Welcome to a great 2019. I wish you happy journalling.

AFETT is a not-for-profit organization formed in 2002 with the goal of bringing together professional women and engaging in networking opportunities, professional training and business ideas. ASK AFETT is a column meant to address issues and concerns of professionals seeking advice to assist in progressing in their careers. Today's response was written by Chennelle Spooner, filmmaker and the managing director of Spoonelle Communications Ltd. Learn more about AFETT at www.afett.com, search for AFETT Events on Facebook, follow us @AFETTEXECS on Twitter or contact us at 343-2160. Email us your career-related questions at admin.afett@gmail.com.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors, meant strictly as advice and guidance, based upon their experience and expertise. In no way are they meant to be legally binding upon AFETT and or its members, servants nor agents.