Boost Confidence Through Creative Self Discovery
Send to KindleIt’s not what you say out of your mouth that determines your life, it’s what you whisper to yourself that has the most power! ~Robert Kiosaki
It may be that some people are simply born with an abundance of confidence, but for most of us maintaining a healthy level of self-confidence requires an ongoing, conscious effort.
A personal journal can be an invaluable tool to boost confidence through creative self discovery by tapping into the strength that lies within you.
Too often we become our own harshest critics, focusing on mistakes, regrets and unfilled promises. Left unchecked, it becomes easier and easier to discount or completely overlook the meaningful things we do, say or accomplish on a daily basis; in the process becoming less and less confident in our abilities.
Self-reflection is the foundation for self-discovery, and keeping track of the things you do right, your daily triumphs, no matter how small, over time can do incredible things to boost your confidence.
Never mind whether or not you consider yourself a writer; a journal is about freedom of expression and creating your own personal sanctuary. There is no correct form or structure for journaling; you don’t even have to stay focused on the present; your mind can move freely across time and place.
Keeping a journal will absolutely change your life in ways you’ve never imagined. ~Oprah Winfrey
How Journaling Helps to Boost Confidence
- Builds self knowledge and helps to work through problems
- Reduces stress
- Helps you to stay focused on your priorities and make better choices
- Brings out your natural beauty and wisdom
- Helps you identify your values
- Clarifies thoughts, feelings and behavior
- Reveals your greater potential
- Beneficial for healing emotionally, mentally and spiritually
- Helps you see yourself as an individual
- Connects you to the bigger picture of your life
Even if you’ve never kept a journal or diary there have probably been occasions when you’ve thought a great deal about current events in your life, or maybe you’ve been caught up in reflecting about something in your past. A friend, picture, phone call or circumstance triggers the memory and suddenly you are “time traveling” in your mind.
You can write about things that are bothering you, things that bring you joy, special moments in your life as well as the occasional heartbreak. And of course there are the special people in your life … thoughts on your children, your parent’s 50th wedding anniversary, the passing of loved ones or the birth of a child.
You can discover amazing things about yourself from your musings through journaling but sometimes our minds are so filled with the noise leftover from the day it’s difficult to focus, so it can be helpful to use journal prompts to get you started. Here are a few examples.
Questions to use as journal prompts
- What is your most cherished childhood memory?
- What is one thing you have always wanted to do, but haven’t. What has prevented you from doing it?
- Describe a time in your life when everything turned out fine, despite the odds.
- What is the one thing you cannot live without?
- What’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said about you.
- What did you learn today?
- Write about something you now know that you wish you knew earlier in life. How could this knowledge have helped you?
- Describe the most outrageous thing you’ve ever done.
- If you had only one wish, what would you wish for?
The most important thing about journaling is to stick with it and to do that you may need to do a little experimenting to find the right type of journal for you. Online journals are very popular today and if that appeals to you, you might like to check out LiveJournal.
Even though I’m very comfortable working online I personally prefer a traditional journal simply because I think we’ve come to take for granted the beauty of the written word. I’m also a very visual person so I like to add images and small mementos because over time they become treasured keepsakes.
Your chances of success in any undertaking can always be measured by your belief in yourself. ~Robert Collierrs
Ultimately self confidence is about attitude. When you are feeling positive about yourself and your abilities, you are far more open to opportunities and experiencing joy in life. Journaling can be an extremely powerful tool to help you boost confidence by tapping into your creative subconscious and inner wisdom on a daily basis.
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photo credit: libookperson via photo pin cc
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Marquita, thanks for the tremendous article. I still have an Artist’s Way journal that I’ve not made a priority. But Julia Cameron, the author, speaks volumes of the benefits of journaling in that book. The most powerful thing we do when we journal is honor and validate our own thoughts, feelings, and needs. I’m with you on the written word: there is something about writing versus typing that makes journaling much more personal for me.
You do not need to become an efficient writer to keep a journal. You just have to write down your thoughts. It is true, sometime we are the worst critic of ourselves. Hence, keeping a journal can help us see or monitor our day to day development as an individual. Journaling is a great means of expressing our unspoken thoughts.
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Nadia Barbara recently posted..SEO Tip: Google Analytics
I believe journaling helps a person keep their sanity. It allows an individual to introspect and get to know themselves more.
Hi Marty,
it is so good to see your article on journalling and your great suggestions and questions.
Anne Frank inspired me to write on when I was a teenager.
My journal(s) have been my best friend, a place to find guidance and to have a sounding board.
I also use it to re-parent my wounded inner child, to hear her and re-assure her.
You are spreading so much great awareness in your post and on your blog.
It is always a pleasure to come back for another visit.
Love and Light
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Yorinda
Yorinda recently posted..Another Step towards Emotional Well Being
Marty,
Great quote to start off with! I really enjoyed reading this and will be printing off the journal ideas. I don’t journal right now but over the past week the idea has been suggested by several people. Gee, I wonder if someone is trying to tell me something!
Thanks for sharing,
Jean
http://www.connectingliveswithcards.com/
Jean recently posted..Make A Heart Smile!
Welcome Jean and I’m so glad you enjoyed the article. Definitely sounds like your personal angels have been trying to get the message across to you to at least give journaling a try
Marty,
This is a really great reminder for me – as I have often thought about starting a journal. And thinking about self confidence, as it relates to journaling, is something I haven’t really considered before. So, thank you for this!!
Lance recently posted..Small Rebellions
Glad you enjoyed the article Lance. I have to admit that I actually keep two journals – a traditional one for my personal thoughts and creative thinking, and a second for work that is a simple word document I keep on my computer. I use that to brainstorm ideas and sometimes even have debates with myself over projects or decisions … little weird at times, but it’s amazing how going through the process can clarify even the most complex problem
I don’t journal much, but I keep a paper calendar with occurances and accomplishments on it. I have tried in the past to keep one but feel its more of a labor than a love to do. I DO keep notebooks filled with business related material that has been EXTREMEly useful to go through.
Thanks for sharing and Keep Shining!!
Vanessa VanHorn recently posted..How To Get People To Your Blog – Social Media SEO
Welcome Vanessa, sounds like you’ve created your own version of journaling, and that’s terrific – whatever works! Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts – truly appreciated
I don’t know where you find the quotes, Marty, but I love that one. It’s so true. The things you whisper to yourself are the things you really do feel about your life and about yourself. This has actually reminded me that I need to do some positive affirmations.
I think us bloggers are great journal makers. We write about the things we think, the things we or our family do, etc. I no longer keep a book journal, but I have 5 blogs and I share so much of what I’m doing and thinking on them. I think you’re right in what you say about stress and journals. I know that my blogs keep me sane (ish).
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Anne recently posted..Boost Confidence: 5 Top Ways To Do It
You amaze me Anne, 5 blogs?! I certainly agree with you about the connection between blogging and journaling – in fact sometimes I have to check myself to make sure the articles aren’t locked into my own life journey. As far as quotes, I’ve always loved quotes and collect them so I’m always on the look out for quotes that are different or carry a unique message. Glad you like it!
Loved the tips! Keeping a journal, a blog, and also honest emails to my best friend has helped in my healing after divorce tremendously.
Great work!
Marty,
Great post! You’re right keeping a journal is very important. It helps you keep track of your growth and assists you in manifesting you’re dreams. Words have more power than most know. Just as they can harm, words can also empower.
Keep up the good work!
Christy
Christy Abram recently posted..Balance your body in 8 steps
Hi Marquita,
Boosting self confidence using journaling has been really of great help for me during the past few years. I have learnt to appreciate and also develop this skills and it has helped me in reaching out to others and also developing relationship with them.
Elizabeth recently posted..Article Marketing : How To Write An Innovative Blog Article
I LOVE this post, Marty! Thanks for sharing it!
I have found journaling to be a wonderful exercise in self-discovery. I have kept a journal for years and it has played a major role in my journey to living a great life.
It has also been my experience that expressing my thoughts and feelings in my journal is an effective method of getting out of my head and getting on with life!
The only guideline I put on my journaling is to write about myself. If I catch myself writing about what other people did or said then I’m no longer expressing myself- I’m avoiding myself. When this happens I can gently redirect my attention to myself which usually leads to some unresolved concern I need to work through.
Have a grateful day!
Chrysta
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Chrysta Bairre recently posted..How To Get Motivated
Great reminder Marquita! I like how you clearly point out ways journaling can really make a difference in one’s self-confidence.
Tonya Sheridan recently posted..7 Ways You May Be Blocking Your Intuition
I couldn’t agree with you more on this post, Marquita! Writing my blog and in my gratitude journal, continues to assist me with my own self-discovery. It has been nothing short of a miracle, that has allowed me to changed my perceptions about myself, as well as the world around me. I believe, it has improved my self-talk tremendously. Each day, I’ve been able to grow and undergo a transformation that I never thought would have been possible – not for me, at least. I’m almost certain I’m one of few men that keep a journal, but there’s absolutely no shame for me, in doing so.
If ever asked, I would say it has truly saved my life. If I went into detail just how much, it would certainly be a guest post here in the comment section of this post. 
Thank you for this inspiring message, my friend. I am co-signing everything you’ve shared here on this topic. Blessings to you.
Deone Higgs recently posted..“What’s My Motivation?” – Uncovering My Life Mission Statement
Build an unshakeable self confidence that comes from a deep place within
Hi Marty,
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very nice post. Indeed, most of us need to work on our confidence level each day and it is so important to feel confident about our life and our work.
I don’t keep a journal but I do have notepads with me all the time and I write down all the ideas that I can use for my blogs and for my work in general. I find it to be very useful.
I used to keep a journal when I was a kid though, and it was quite interesting to have all my thoughts written down on paper.
Mariella Lombardi recently posted..US Marine Replaces TRX Destroyed By a Roadside Bomb – The Benefits of Using the TRX Suspension Training!
Keeping notepads with you is a great idea Mariella, great idea. I’m glad you enjoyed the article, and appreciate your taking time to share your thoughts
I like to keep a journal but so many of my friends think it is childish. Something we did when we were teenagers they say.
Natalie recently posted..St. Anthony of Padua Church in Istanbul
Hi Natalie, thanks so much for taking the time to contribute to the conversation. Yes, I’ve heared the “it’s for kids” comment before. There are also many, many people – including professionals – who swear by the power of journaling so in the end it really is up to the individual. I wouldn’t worry too much about what others think of your keeping a journal – that’s your private sanctuary and you don’t need to let anyone else in if you don’t want to.