Self reflective Journal

  Self-reflection is described as ‘serious thought about one's character and actions’.

Self-reflection can be done in the form of meditation or self-questioning, as explored in the previous week.

Another integral form of self-reflection that can document your progress is journaling.

Journaling is a day by day record of your progress, growth and journey throughout life.

Journaling presents a safe, private environment for you to reflect, think independently, examine your relationships, goals, needs and behaviour patterns.

J-O-U-R-N-A-L Breakdown

J : judgement-free - your journal serves as a safe place to express thoughts that you may not feel comfortable sharing with others, it is a non-judgemental record of your personal emotions and behaviours. There are no rules to journaling.

O : observation - ‘what happens to us is not nearly as important as the way we interpret it’. Journaling allows us to move into the ‘observer’ role, providing space to ‘view’ what happens to us and make a conscious decision how to respond / interpret what is happening. Observation allows us to break and change the chain of: 

thoughts - feelings - actions - reality

U : understanding - journaling gives us the chance to understand our dominant processing style - how we think, learn and interpret our lives. Writing down our thoughts and feelings affords the opportunity to understand the ‘big picture’, as well as feelings below the surface.

R : revelation - journaling allows you to communicate with your internal world, often revealing unprocessed thoughts, fears and aspirations. What you record in your journal can reveal the core of your being. This can be a release and allow you to learn more about yourself.

N : needs - journaling offers a clear-minded, judgement free brainstorming opportunity which can present answers to needs and life-challenges. Becoming aware of your needs allows you to seek help and answers to help you fulfil those needs.

A : awareness - this presents itself in a progressive way - allowing you to become aware of what needs to change for you to move forward in life and in a positive way - allowing you to become aware of the things you are grateful for in your life. This could include a gratitude list.

L : life quality - just 10 minutes of journaling a day can significantly decrease stress and anxiety. On your weight loss journey, journaling can help you progress further, make the process easier and document your successes over time. Becoming a healthy weight will improve the quality of your life immeasurably and your journal will serve as a record of this process.

Task - Journal Entry

Complete your first journal entry.

This could include:

How you feel about life currently?

What you want to achieve during lockdown?

Why you want to achieve these goals?

How this will impact the people in your life?

What this will mean to your life / how this will improve your quality of life?