Why do I journal…?
My Dad gave me my first journal for Christmas in 1989. I was in grade seven, swimming competitively, and he thought it would be a good way to track my workouts and goals. Since that first journal (which I still have tucked away in a closet at the farm!), I’ve filled dozens and dozens more. In fact, I can probably count on one hand (or maybe two) the number of days I’ve missed in the past 35 years.
So, why do I journal? I journal because it helps me sleep. I journal because it lets me track my progress - so when I’m feeling down, I can remind myself how far I’ve come. I journal because I love to capture the highlights of each day. I journal to say thank you to people in my life, even if they never know I’ve thought of them. I journal to gather my thoughts, to keep stress at bay, to prepare for what’s ahead, and to remember what’s already happened.
These days, I actually keep three journals. I have an old-school day calendar book, which I mostly use for work but which still captures daily highlights. Then I have my Surefooted Journal, focused on goal-setting and looking ahead. And finally, I keep a notebook journal, which I write in either before bed or first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee.
In that notebook, I always start with the day, month, year, weather, and my location. I write for about ten minutes, trying to capture the main happy memories of the day, and I always—always—end each entry with the words thank you. My journal writing tends to stay light and positive, but every now and then I use it to “talk through” challenges or make lists to help myself move past obstacles. What I don’t do is complain. For me, journaling is really a daily practice in gratitude - for the people, places, and memories in my life.
I share all this because I believe journaling has genuinely made me a better husband, father, employee, athlete… person. I recommend giving it a try. It’s never too late, and you can make it your own - decide how, when, and how often. Like any habit, it takes time to build, but once you get into it, I’m confident you’ll find it helpful.
Happy journaling, and stay Surefooted.
Mike Murray