Writing toward Clarity

Journal writing is such a beneficial practice in so many different ways. One of the things it can help with is clearing the clutter that inevitably fills our minds. It can help clarify intentions or goals and then assist us in staying on track. It can also aid in sorting through confusion, deal with difficulties—even trauma—and help us develop more calmness and serenity.

Writing daily, even for as little as 10 minutes, can do all that and more. There is certainly nothing wrong with just writing whatever occurs to you or is bothering you or comes out of the end of your pen. But having a focus makes journal writing even more powerful. Starting out with some kind of question or writing prompt, maybe just a keyword or key phrase, focuses your mind, which allows you to get in touch with whatever is swimming below your surface thoughts. And using a multi-part exercise can help you go deeper to reap even greater rewards.

The keys to writing toward clarity are:

Regularity

Some people find it easier to write every day when they attach their journaling to another activity or to a specific time of day. Do whatever works for you.

Focus

If you can’t immediately come up with a keyword, key phrase, or anything specific to focus on, try sitting quietly for a few minutes to see what shows up. Go with that, even if it doesn’t “make sense” in the moment.

Depth

A simple three-part exercise is to write a question at the top of a blank page and write in response to it for 8-12 minutes. Reread what you wrote, select a sentence or phrase, and write it at the top of another blank page. Write in response to it for 8-12 minutes. Finally, reread both pieces, find a question (either one you asked in your writing or one that occurs to you now), write it at the top of a blank page, and write in response to it for 8-12 minutes. Then reread all three pieces.

There’s such a wealth of journal writing resources in books, journals, and on the internet that you don’t have to worry about running out of ideas to spark your writing.