Happy New Year everyone! I hope by now that you are back to your routine or getting used to a new and better one. Same here. As the new year began, I had so many ideas to write about, which made me reflect deeply. So, I asked myself: “What I am doing great, that has changed my life and surprisingly transforms my routines to be meaningful and exciting’’; “What has been my base for every day?”
It all came down to my quiet, devotional journaling time. The busier I am, the more I give this precious time a pedestal. As a wellness and fitness coach, my working hours can start as early as 6 or 7am. There were times that I would rush it all just to squeeze in some more time for deep sleep. But that wasn’t worth the sensation of hurriedness day after day until the point that I would catch myself celebrating the weekend. Familiar with TGIF? I now hate that expression. The idea of waiting until the weekend so that we can be grateful, happy, and making the most of our lives, makes me mentally (and physically) OLD!
So I decided to review my routines to look for areas of improvement and optimization in my daily schedule. The idea was that I could sleep early and wake up earlier the next morning with more time for myself to grow. What did I need to change every day to feel that the world was not rushing along at 200km/h, and I was never able to catch up with my dreams and emotions? After some trial and error, it became evident that early morning (and I mean, 4:30-5:00am) was the only quiet time I could feel that the ‘world’ was on pause mode (sleeping) and I could reflect clearly. I started with 15 minutes every day, and now I’ve extended it to one hour – the most precious hour of my day, where I make my coffee, sit, open my bible, write in my journal and enjoy the quietness.
So here is my best advice to start your year in a more efficient manner: reserve some time for yourself to grow. Take time to prioritize the quietness and journal all you can. I challenge you so that you can develop a more mindful, grateful life. We all get caught up with so much: our routines, work duties, family, social media, and the list goes on… There is so much to be aware of that we often overlook the beautiful things each day holds. At the end of the day, all you can think is how comfortable your bed is and how much you want the day to be over! Do you remember when you were a kid and you didn’t want to go to bed because you were enjoying your day so much? That’s a glimpse of how we should feel every day – joyful and grateful for what has happened. And even on the hard days that you can’t wait to be over, I’m sure will be able to at least be grateful for your life and the wisdom and grace that has been given to you to help deal with the hard situations. Well-known author Julia Cameron expresses her interest in journaling by comparing it to spiritual “windshield wipers.” She notes: “Once we get those muddy, maddening, confusing thoughts [nebulous worries, jitters, and preoccupations] on the page, we face our day with clearer eyes.”
Here’s a simple strategy: Wake up at least 10 to 15 minutes earlier for 5 minutes of journaling. Or do it before you sleep. Make time to look after yourself, take note of what’s going on, and be the change you want to see. Say your prayers, ask for supernatural wisdom, be grateful and start your day strong! I personally don’t trust in luck and coincidences… I trust that my creator allows me to experience events and emotions, either to bring me joy or make me a more resilient person, able to fulfill my purpose. Either way, by journaling, I’m able to reflect and be aware of patterns to change or maintain, and/or extraordinary events that will make me evolve.
Not sure of what to write in your journal? Grab a blank notebook and start simple:
• What was the best thing about yesterday?
• Today I’m grateful for…
• Daily affirmation: I am…
There are plenty of resources out there to guide you, such as the “5-minute journal” exercise provided by Intelligent Change. Or drop me a message at [email protected] and I’ll be glad to send you my personalized soft copy for free.
“Become everything that one is capable
of becoming.”
ABRAHAM MASLOW
