Journaling can happen in a variety of ways. From lists to cartoons, to collaging and writing—there’s no wrong way to journal and process your thoughts and ideas. Plus, journaling is a reflective way to disconnect from our screen-filled world. For this week’s prompt, we are focusing on inspiration. Who, what, and how are you inspired?
First, toss aside your assumptions that journaling always means pages of words. Journaling can include:
- Sketching
- Doodling
- Painting
- Bullet pointing
- Writing
- Documenting with natural materials
- Collaging
- Mind mapping
Grab your favorite journal and journaling supplies, then reflect on the following questions using your favorite journal method. If you’d like a bit of a challenge, try a new method for each question:
- Who inspires you? Are there advocates, family members, celebrities, friends, artists, or other people that you admire and are inspired by? Create a picture of them or write about them.
- How does this person(s) influence you? Write or illustrate the story about a time this person made a difference in your life.
- If you could have a meal with this person:
- Describe or create a visual of the meal.
- What five questions would you ask them?
- What’s the best advice this person gave you (or in general)? How do you incorporate the advice into your life?
- What have you always wanted to know about this person?
Journaling can be an incredibly grounding and a de-stressing way to reflect inward and about the world around you. Try spending an hour or two inside or outside journaling and unplugging from the day as a great way to relax and find peace.
Grace Heneghan – Grace is a Program Resources Specialist at River Valleys. She earned her BA in Gender and Women’s Studies and minor in Environmental Studies from Northland College. Her background also includes guiding backcountry expeditions and teaching outdoor education to youth. In her free time, Grace enjoys reading, listening to music, cooking, and exploring the metro area. Three things she can’t live without? Pamplemousse La Croix, a canoe paddle, and a manicure.