There is no right way to start journaling, but if you are having trouble starting, there is a W.R.I.T.E method to get your brain juices going. This is a great journaling method to use if you have writers block or if you feel a little intimated by the idea of starting a journal.

Try these five easy steps to get started on your journaling journey.

1. What do you want to write about? Identify your thoughts, feelings, and desires.
   • You don’t have to feel like you have to write about something deep and philosophical. You can write about anything no matter how small or mundane it might be. I have seen people write about how they literally didn’t do anything during the day and how they have no new thoughts or feelings about anything.
2. Reflect on your chosen topic, starting with phrases like “I feel…” or “I want…” or “I think…” or “Today….”
3. Investigate your thoughts and feelings by continuously writing, even if you encounter writer’s block. Re-read what you’ve already written and continue writing.
   • It’s okay if you repeat yourself. You can write about the same thing in a million different ways. You might even come out with different thoughts. I often find I don’t write because I think “I have nothing new to say” and this stops any progress I made with writing. So, even if you don’t have anything new to say, don’t worry about it. Rehash a topic or rewrite another!
4. Time yourself for 5-15 minutes and record the start and end times.
5. Exit – Conclude by re-reading your entry and reflecting on it, noting any action steps to take. For example, “As I read this, I notice—” or “I’m aware of—” or “I feel—”.