As my daily meditation comes to an end, I anticipate the act of writing. Sometimes, it’s a moment of inspiration, prompting me to reflect on past events and past relationships, no matter how distant or painful they may be. Sometimes, however, my mind resembles a blank sheet of paper, resulting in apathy and inertia.
During those moments, putting pen to paper becomes a meditation in itself — a process of looking deep within, observing my thoughts, and expressing whatever comes to mind in the moment’s contemplation.
Not every day is filled with inspiration, not every day is perfect for writing; nevertheless, I endure and do it anyway. Dedicating your whole day to the creative process and sharing your thoughts, notes, and little observations always brings me tremendous joy. In some sense, it’s a dream come true.
7 Mindful Journaling Tips to Overcome Writer’s Block
Writing the journal entry above reminded me of a beautiful passage from James E. Miller’s book The Rewarding Practice of Journal Writing: a Guide for Starting and Keeping Your Personal Journal.
James E. Miller writes:
1. Whoever you are, you will benefit from writing about your thoughts, feelings, remembrances, and hopes.
2. Wherever you have gone and whatever you have experienced in life, you have a story that is worth being told.
3. Whichever words you use and however you spell and punctuate them, if they’re yours, that’s all that’s needed.
4. However creative you feel, you’re creative enough, and however artistic you are, that’s exactly the right amount for whatever is yours to pass on.
5. However your words sound when you read them aloud to yourself, if they’re honest and they sound like you, there’s nothing more to ask.
6. However your thoughts flow onto the page, if they flow from you, then you’ve done as much as any journaler has ever done, whoever they are, whoever they have been.
7. So journal, and be yourself as you journal. Write in your own words, with your own voice, and your own understanding. Write as only you know how. Your life will be the richer for it, and the fuller and the freer. Just as you will be.
Complement The Rewarding Practice of Journal Writing with Christina Baldwin on spiritual journaling.
I’m a freelance writer and mindfulness advocate behind this blog. I started my meditation practice in 2014, and in 2017 I launched this website to share what I learn with others. Here are the three things you can do here:
1. Schedule a free consult if you want to learn Buddhist meditation.
2. Download free mindfulness resources for stress relief
3. Join Patreon for exclusive content and community meetings.
