5 Ways to Practice Self-Reflection Through Journaling

5 Ways to Practice Self-Reflection Through Journaling

Renew Inspiration, Self-Reflection, Journaling, Journal Writing
Renew Inspiration

Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted – it is an intimate date with yourself. – Paul TP Wong

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Whatever you’re going through in this season, always remember not to give up, but instead slow down to reflect on everything you have and to identify who you are. Give presence in these moments, especially to yourself. Listen to what your mind, body, and spirit needs, but also listen to your heart. Take a moment to re-evaluate your goals, attitude, and mindset. What better way to do this than a concept called self-reflection through journaling? Believe it or not, self-reflection through journaling can allow you to:

  • Increase self-awareness.
  • Make positive changes in your life.
  • Gain clarity inside and out.
  • Present new perspectives and insight.
  • Offer up a glimpse into your soul in its purest form.
  • Provide a safe outlet for your personal thoughts and feelings.
  • Give a creative space of self-expression without criticism.

***CLICK HERE to receive your FREE Journal Prompts to assist you along your journey***

5 WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-REFLECTION THROUGH JOURNALING

Be a reflection of what you’d like to receive. If you want love, give love. If you want truth, be truthful. If you want respect, give respect. What you give out will always return. – Kristen Butler

During this journey we call life, it’s important to realize that you have the power to cultivate positive energy within your body in any given moment. Yes, even when you are exhausted, burned out and feel like you have got nothing left to give, your body can guide you to a peaceful place of greater vitality, inner strength, and well-being.

Now, let’s take a moment to discuss 5 ways to practice self-reflection through journaling.

#1 – Cultivate stillness within you and reflect on these questions:

  • What habits did you achieve today, this week or this month?
  • What could you improve on in your life?
  • Where were you this time last year and what have you learned since then?

#2 – Practice prayer & meditation and reflect on these questions:

  • What is on your mind right now in this very moment?
  • What is your prayer for today?
  • Do you pay attention to your breathing while you are practicing meditation?

#3 – Write in your journal and reflect on these questions:

  • What is the easiest way to get your thoughts and feelings out on paper?
  • What is an experience that changed your outlook on life?
  • Do you re-read your journal entries to find patterns in your daily habits or thoughts?

#4 – Analyze a past event and reflect on these questions:

  • Why do you feel the way you do about the event?
  • What is one thing outside your control that you need to stop worrying about?
  • Why do you feel guilty about the event or the outcome?

#5 – Make decisions that align with your values and reflect on these questions:

  •  What kinds of things do you value in life?
  • What helps you make sound and confident decisions?
  • What is something that keeps you grounded along your journey?

As you can see, journaling is a safe place to practice self-reflection, your time to just write how you feel, and no one will ever know. From my experience, it is important to have your guard down when making the decision to practice self-reflection through journaling. Remember, there is no wrong or right way to do this process, you just need to write! No overthinking or edits on paper, just write your honest thoughts and feelings down. Never be afraid to sit in your truth and re-arrange broken patterns. Stay patient and trust your self-reflection journey.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Life is only a reflection of what we allow ourselves to see. – Unknown Author

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey and be patient with yourself. Ready, set, write!

 MIND

  • What thought patterns do you have and how do they impact your life?
  • What takes your mind away from positive and/or peaceful thoughts?
  • What is one thing you can do this week to improve your meditation time?

BODY

  • How can you honor your body on today?
  • What are some ways you can take better care of yourself this week?
  • Does your self-care need improvement? How would you improve it?

SPIRIT

  • What is an area in your life where you need to trust God more?
  • What do you need to be free from and surrender to God?
  • How much are you trusting God with your life right now?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

I am now a reflection of my highest self. – Graceful Rebel

Journaling can help you overcome any problem or obstacle that you face in life. The key is consistency. Commit to this process, create a plan, and make it happen. Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges? How do you approach self-reflection through journaling? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Copyright © 2021 – Renew Inspiration – All Rights Reserved

Welcome March – Total Health & Wellness

Welcome March – Total Health & Wellness

Spring Flowers
Pixabay

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Psalm 37:23

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6

Welcome March! Well, today is March 1st. Where did February go? I do realize it is the shortest month of the year, but I cannot believe we are ten days from Daylight Savings Time (March 11th) and nineteen days from the first day of Spring (March 20th). Well, I have to ask you…Have you taken time to renew your inspiration? Are you inspired to become better than you were yesterday? What drives you to push forward when obstacles arise in life or do you just want to give up? Who inspires you to reach for your dreams throughout this journey called life or do you feel left alone? Does anyone challenge you to set realistic goals for yourself? If not, today is your lucky day. I would like to challenge you today to get inspired for TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS. Let’s strive to organize your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT.

The mind is like water. When it’s turbulent, it’s difficult to see. When it’s calm, everything becomes clear. -Prasad Mahes

To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. -Lao Tzu

mental connection
Pixabay

Now, on our journey for TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS, it’s important to make a mental connection with your body and spirit. First, make sure to be realistic and put your thoughts into perspective honoring your personal beliefs. Second, don’t be afraid to prioritize things that matter most to you in your life right now, in this very moment, and remove all negativity, both people and things. Third, don’t be afraid to say NO to others and think positive thoughts throughout your day. Fourth, start using a calendar or planner to organize your appointments and errands. In addition, create a separate To Do List daily to stay organized and stress free.

Journal Prompts 
• What are your priorities in life?
• What do you need to be content?
• Write down something that you want to remember. Why is it important to you?

Your body loves you. Love it back. -Unknown

Embrace and love your body. It’s the most amazing thing you will ever own. -Unknown

body, yoga pose
Pixabay

Now, that we have discussed our MIND, it’s time to discuss our BODY. First, it’s important to treat your body well and with respect. Second, our bodies are built to move so make sure you plan some kind of exercise daily (cardio, strength training, stretching). Third, make sure to eat a well-balanced diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Remember, move more, eat less. No more excuses. Fourth, set realistic goals and a create a plan to reach your goals. Fifth, track your food and exercise. Sixth, join an online Wellness or Health Program, such as Weight Watchers or Spark People for additional support.

Journal Prompts
• Write 5 things you would like to do more and make a plan to do them.
• What do you love about yourself?
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Everything has a spirit – honor that. -Unknown

In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit. -Anne Frank

Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. -Albert Einstein

spirit, reading, Bible, God's Word
Pixabay

Now, we have discussed MIND & BODY. Let’s now discuss our SPIRIT. First, it’s important for you to connect with your inner being or your spirit throughout the day. For example, spend time in prayer, meditation, and reading God’s Word to receive the proper guidance in your life. Second, you can attend religious services often to get your spirit renewed or find scriptures to meditate on throughout the day. Third, take time to write down a spiritual quote or your favorite scripture to have it hidden in your heart. Fourth, you can get engaged with your spiritual self by reading inspirational books, writing personal reflections in your journal, or listening to spiritual music. Remember, your spirit drives your thought process, your emotions, and your mood so we have to keep it grounded with a strong foundation.

Journal Prompts
• What are you thankful for? Why?
• What are my values? What do I believe in?
• Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.

So, are you up for the TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS challenge? I sure hope this blog has given you a boost of energy and some ideas to help you get started. Please leave a comment and share what you have chosen to do differently in order to better organize your MIND, BODY & SPIRIT. Remember, we learn from one another so don’t be shy. I look forward to reading your comments.

TOTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS TIPS
• Your success is found in your daily routine.
• Fitness Rule #1 – Never skip Mondays.
• Count your blessings and practice kindness every day.
• Let go of what you cannot control.
• Listen to your heart.
• Remember, to breathe.