Category Archives: JournalTalk

Journaling Promotes a Voice of Authenticity

JournalTalk has offered me the pleasure of interviewing some interesting people. People who have developed a habit of asking themselves tough questions, listening to the voice(s) within, and staying present to the answers that unfold. This week’s guest is a great example of such a guy.

Thai Nguyen writes with a candid, authentic voice. His articles about personal growth and development have been featured in MindBodyGreen, the Huffington Post, and other popular sites.

Thai’s life has taken many interesting turns. His family fled from Vietnam after the war, and made it to Australia. He’s been a 5-star chef specializing in nutrition-rich menus, an international kick boxer and personal trainer, and he attended seminary school with a drive to help people on their spiritual journey. While earning a Masters degree in Psychotherapy, Today Thai writes for his own authentic news site, TheUtopianLife.com.

Our conversation explores several topics, but what felt most profound to me was our agreement that our words and our stories matter — the more we seek to understand ourselves, especially if we want to be a positive influence on others, the more important it is to listen for and give attention to constructing the words of our personal journey. (JournalTalk, Episode #58, July 14, 2015)

Free Webinar: In this episode, I share how to attend a free webinar about authenticity in your business communications. In this 60-minute video, “Words That Mean Business,” I share tips on building trust and collaboration with your colleagues, to give you an advantage in sharing your ideas and creating a productive work environment.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music and Voiceovers: Music Radio Creative

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Q&A: “What are the Rules of Journaling?”

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In the first session of every journal-writing workshop I teach, we spend a little time sharing (and debunking!) the myths and rumors we’ve all heard about “the rules” of proper journal-keeping. So when I saw this question online, I knew I had to make an episode about it.

Should I start a certain way? Does each entry need to be a minimum length? Do I have to use pen and paper? Do I have to write every single day? I think people ask these questions because they want some structure, and want to hear some of the “best practices” that have worked for others — not because they want to be boxed-in.

Starting from my favorite pet answer, “there’s no wrong way to write,” Jayde Gilmore and I work backwards into a select few guidelines for best results, including: dating your entries, practicing complete honesty and exploration of feelings.

Your turn to answer: What journal-writing “guidelines” have served you the best? In what ways do you “break the rules” in your journal? Post your responses at the bottom of this webpage, in the comments section.

You may email your own journaling question to be featured on a future episode of JournalTalk. Or, pick up the telephone and leave a voicemail with your question at 1-805-751-6280 (only normal toll charges may apply). When your question is featured, we will send you a thank-you gift for sharing your voice! (JournalTalk Q&A, Episode #30, July 7, 2015)

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music: Pond5.com
Voiceover: Thomas Gerrard

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For Those With Absolutely NO TIME To Keep a Journal…

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Journal-writing can’t get any easier than this.

Checking in with your feelings — being aware of what’s alive inside you — is the Ground Zero for living a life of passion, clarity and purpose. In this episode, I interview Jim Kleiber, a leader in helping people do just that.

Jim has quite a few inspiring stories to share, and when you hear him speak, you’ll likely notice the power of authenticity that he exudes. Jim trained himself to routinely acknowledge his own emotions using an app he designed for himself, called iFeelio. By mastering that one simple skill, he has learned so much about himself and his own world, that now he’s being invited, literally, all over the planet, teaching the art of emotional self-defense, helping people of many nations sew together the threads in the fabric of world peace.

You may know I manage two websites, Write4Life.com is about tips and techniques for journal-writing, and EasyJournaling.com shares the electronic tools of the trade. I enjoy teaching best practices with journaling apps for your desktop computer, tablet, or even smartphone. Although iFeelio is not exactly a journal-writing app, I’ve never seen a more clever tool for recording your feelings. It asks two simple questions: “What am I feeling, in this moment right now?” And, “What’s happening?” In thirty seconds (or less), you can compose a complete journal entry.

I recommend giving it a try, especially if you are one of those people with absolutely NO TIME for keeping a journal, and yet you’re smart and aware enough to understand the value of “checking in” with yourself on a frequent basis. (JournalTalk, Episode #57, June 30, 2015)

Exclusive Offer for JournalTalk Listeners: In this episode, Jim offers a free fifteen minute telephone conversation, to discuss any topic or issue of interest regarding iFeelio, or his Emotional Self-Defense workshops. Listen to the podcast to get instructions for contacting him directly, and please let him know you heard him on JournalTalk.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music and Voiceovers: Music Radio Creative

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Q&A: “How Can Journaling Be Used As Meditation?”

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Mapping the inner journey. Mindful reflection. Developing awareness. Sharpening perception. These are some of the ways people refer to their writing practice. Is it true that journal-writing can be used as a kind of meditation?

Jayde and I take turns with examples we have used, and share ways that have helped others. For example: incorporate breathing, nature, and focusing your senses on the present moment.

Your turn to answer: Have you found journal-writing to be a meditative routine, or can it enhance meditation? What are your tips or techniques? Post your responses at the bottom of this webpage, in the comments section.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music: Pond5.com
Voiceover: Thomas Gerrard

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The Soul of Success

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Recovering from pneumonia was precisely the reminder I needed to breathe deeply, and move forward on my most important projects in a steady, self-compassionate pace.

Before then, I had been burning the candle at both ends, pushing myself to work harder, faster and smarter than ever. Now that I’m healthy and getting back into my stride, I’m confronted with mountains of tasks, and a gnawing urge to catch up to where I would have been if I hadn’t gotten sick. Can you feel me?

In this episode, I share a favorite 5-minute journaling technique, which I call the Ta-Da! List, for when I’m overwhelmed and need a system for making small steps of progress on the things that matter most.

This episode is also a grand unveiling for three exciting projects I’ve been working on.

Power Insights. A new seven-day program that is guaranteed to help you discover valuable insights into any situation, decision, relationship, or issue you are facing. Special offer: JournalTalk listeners receive a 67% reduced price on this guided coaching program.
Soul of Success. I’ve co-authored a book with Jack Canfield and several other entrepreneurs for helping people discover secrets of health, wealth and success. Click HERE to get your copy of this book today!
Capturing Life Through Technology. We’ve (re)launched a new podcast series about using the best electronic tools of the trade; not only for journal-writing, but also including the many ways to capture life’s most precious moments. You can listen for free from the iTunes store, and I’d appreciate your honest review and 5-star rating! (JournalTalk, Episode #56, June 16, 2015)

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Q&A: “Is Journaling in Schools a Good Thing?

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It seems like every subject in school is requiring students to keep a “journal” for enhanced learning. My first reaction to this awareness was happy. But I wonder whether students can be truly honest, while they are also hoping their teachers will award them a good grade? Doesn’t this violate some of the defining characteristics of good journaling?

Kim Ades, from Frame of Mind Coaching in Toronto, Canada, joins me to answer this and other interesting related questions. You can learn more about Frame of Mind Coaching by taking this assessment. Receive a free consultation from a Frame of Mind coach. Please let them know that you heard about them on JournalTalk!

Your turn to answer: Do you keep a journal as a school assignment? Do you feel it helps you personally, or is it just another assignment? Teachers, how do you see journaling helping your students? Post your responses at the bottom of this webpage, in the comments section.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music: Pond5.com
Voiceover: Thomas Gerrard

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Let’s Go to the Hamptons for Journal Camp!

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Here’s a short episode to share that I’m feeling much better, and on the mend! Sarabelle Prince, a colleague of mine through the Center for Journal Therapy, shared a very unusual cold remedy with me, which worked wonders. She also shares a great opportunity to take part in a summer Journal Camp. (JournalTalk, Episode #55, May 12, 2015)

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Q&A: “What Kind of Journal-Writing Makes for the Best Future Reading?”

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Joyce asked a beautiful journaling question: “How can I write in my journal in a way that I’ll enjoy re-reading my entries in years to come?”

Seasoned journal-writers know that there’s a treasure chest full of good reasons to go back and re-read past journal entries. But often those gems of wisdom are hard to locate among all the “chatter” that often permeates the pages.

Heather Severson, my friend who founded the Write It Out Journal Workshops returns this episode to join me in sharing tips about journaling in such a way that makes future reading more interesting. We both conclude that this is one of those journal-writing paradoxes: The most fun and interesting entries to read later are the ones which are simply honest and present, seemingly written for no future audience!

Fuel the Dialogue: Do you write for your future self to read? What types of your writing do you most enjoy reading later? Post your responses at the bottom of this webpage, in the comments section.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music: Pond5.com
Voiceover: Thomas Gerrard

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Write From The Body Workshops

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What’s the connection between the mind and the body when it comes to writing? How might moving our bodies affect the way we feel, think, and express ourselves through language?

JournalTalk listeners are in for a treat this week. Elizabeth Schwyzer, freelance writer, newspaper arts editor, and dance critic, shares a special exercise in this episode to help us combine writing and body movement, for a fuller, richer experience of knowing and trusting ourselves.

Participants in her “Write from the Body” workshops have found great enjoyment and therapeutic release as well as a sense of having freed up their creativity. After listening to her describe the connection between movement and writing, you’ll understand her passion for using both forms of expression to help writers access their truest voices.

To find out when Elizabeth is putting on her next series of Write from the Body workshops, you may keep in touch with her. Or, you may request she bring her workshop to you (or your studio). She’s currently based in the Bay Area, but happy to travel to share this powerful method of connecting with yourself and your story. (JournalTalk, Episode #54, April 14, 2015)

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music and Voiceovers: Music Radio Creative

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Q&A: “What To Do With Journaling Guilt?”

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Carol from New Zealand asks “What do I do with the guilty feelings I get when I stop journaling?”

It might be easy to quip, “Just process those feelings in your next journal entry,” but often, the shame is accompanied by unrealistic hopes of “catching up,” and then we avoid journaling altogether.

Jayde Gilmore and I both relate to that nagging cycle of feelings. Over time, we’ve learned to recognize them as gentle reminders to come kindly back to our Self. We offer several suggestions to Carol and others who put tons of pressure on themselves to write more. This seems to be one of the paradoxes of journal-writing, and perhaps any worthwhile habit — pushing yourself to do a little more than what’s convenient, while knowing how to be kind to yourself when you slow down.

Fuel the Discussion: Do you feel guilty when you’ve stopped writing for awhile? How long is too long to go without writing? What do you tell yourself when you’ve stopped the habit? Post your responses at the bottom of this webpage, in the comments section.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music: Pond5.com
Voiceover: Thomas Gerrard

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Don’t Leave Home Without Your Journal

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Does keeping a journal encumber your vacation, or enhance it? Lavinia Spalding agrees wholeheartedly that journaling on vacation deepens one’s travel experience. But because we understand the inherent challenges, we offer simple, practical tips for travel journaling without feeling like you’re missing the boat.

Lavinia Spalding is the author of Writing Away, A Creative Guide to Awakening the Journal-Writing Traveler (named one of the best travel books of 2009 by the LA Times) and also, With a Measure of Grace: the Story and Recipes of a Small Town Restaurant. She is also the series editor of an annual anthology called “The Best Women’s Travel Writing”.

In this interview, Lavinia shares wisdom from her travel-writing experience. Don’t miss her TEDx Talk about Travel Writing and World Peace, which is equal parts entertaining and profound. She’s makes an excellent case for keeping a journal when taking that next trip, whether it’s a business trip, a family vacation, or a simple visit outside of our area code. (JournalTalk, Episode #53, March 31, 2015)

Exclusive Offer for JournalTalk Listeners: In this episode, Lavinia offers you her “Friends and Family” discount for either an editing project, or a writing coaching session. Send her a request to schedule, and let her know that you heard her on JournalTalk.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music and Voiceovers: Music Radio Creative

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Q&A: “What’s the Difference Between a Journal Coach and a Journal Therapist?”

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Today’s question from Mark is one of terminology. What do you call a person who helps others achieve new insights and accomplishments, using the power of journal-writing? Is it a Journal Coach? or a Journal Therapist?

We could have also discussed the role of Journal Facilitator (which I am currently studying at The Center for Journal Therapy) but let’s stick to Mark’s question!

Kim Ades, from Frame of Mind Coaching in Toronto, Canada, joins me to answer this intriguing distinction. You can learn more about Frame of Mind Coaching by taking this assessment, and receive a free consultation from a coach. Please let them know that you heard about them on JournalTalk!

Your turn to answer: Are you a Journal Coach or Journal Therapist? If so, how do you describe and distinguish your role? If not, with whom would you rather work, a journal coach or a journal therapist? Post your responses at the bottom of this webpage, in the comments section.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music: Pond5.com
Voiceover: Thomas Gerrard

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The One Thing About Journaling: Getting Real

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As soon as I bought her book, “Getting Real“, I knew I wanted to invite Dr. Susan Campbell to be a guest on JournalTalk.

I’ve often shared that the one thing you need for a healthy journal-writing habit — far more important than whether you type or handwrite, or whether you write daily or just sporadically — is the ability to get completely honest with yourself.

In addition to being author of incredible books, Dr. Campbell has helped people embrace their authenticity in all areas of life, through workshops and coaching programs. She’s been featured on several national television spots and magazines for her insight and step-by-step instructions on using our truth to understand, connect, and heal ourselves and our relationships.

I’m hopeful that our conversation, both contemplative and giggly, will delight and inspire you. We discuss several of her books about authenticity and relationship repair (click here for a library of them on Amazon.com). We ponder what to do with our stacks of disregarded journals of the past. And, Dr. Susan shares a number of journal-writing exercises to try. One of them she calls the “Do-Over”, a powerful series of questions that help you revise a statement or promise you’ve made to someone when you weren’t being 100% authentic. Dr. Susan invites me to share my own example of this, and, thinking for a moment that I was in the privacy of her office, I allowed myself to share something very personal about a relationship with someone from high school. (JournalTalk, Episode #52, March 17, 2015)

Exclusive Offer for JournalTalk Listeners: In this episode, Dr. Susan offers to send listeners a downloadable “cheat-sheet” of the Revising/Do-Over exercise, when they contact her and mention “JournalTalk”. This is a wonderful activity that helps you practice authenticity in your communications with others, even if you haven’t been as authentic with them as you could have in the past.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music and Voiceovers: Music Radio Creative

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Q&A: “Do You Ever Feel a Burning Hole in Your Soul?”

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By far, Tom has sent in the toughest journaling question I’ve been called upon to answer. You can even hear my subtle attempts to avoid it.

With co-host Jayde Gilmore, I wandered into the wilderness of related side-conversations: Grief, gratitude, trance writing, loving-what-is, depression, and comparing the various levels of journal certification to reiki! We may have even stumbled over the inspiration for the 1990 hit song by They Might Be Giants, “Birdhouse in Your Soul”.

I apologize for having no better way to summarize the dialogue from this episode. I’m hoping Tom will accept our invitation to write again with a few clarifying details. I’d also appreciate hearing which parts of our answer were most helpful.

Your turn to answer: How do you use journal-writing to address those yearnings of the heart which cannot be described? Do you have tips for diving that deep in your writing? How does writing help you move through your darkest hours? Or, how would YOU answer this week’s question? Post your responses at the bottom of this webpage, in the comments section.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music: Pond5.com
Voiceover: Thomas Gerrard

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Spring Cleaning: Journaling to De-Clutter!

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Proving once again that journal-writing is NOT just an introverted, navel-gazing activity, Carolyn Koehnline shows us how to use our journals to remove clutter from our homes, heads, hearts and schedules.

Author of “Confronting Your Clutter”, a practicing mental health counselor, and Certified Journal Therapist, Carolyn guides us toward our compassionate inner voice to support us through transitions. In fact, Carolyn’s are some of the most potent writing prompts in the Looking Back, Looking Forward journaling challenge, a month-long journal-writing course designed to help you review the recent stepping-stones of life, and design a compelling future.

In this episode, I share a personal story about the three years I avoided a storage room full of my “stuff”, and how, thanks to Carolyn’s journaling suggestions, I found courage to tackle the overwhelm, and save $300 per month in storage fees! (JournalTalk, Episode #51, March 3, 2015)

Exclusive Offer for JournalTalk Listeners: In this episode, Carolyn invites listeners to contact her for a free gift, simply for mentioning that you heard her on JournalTalk.

Credits:
Audio Editing: Netrix Marketing
Music and Voiceovers: Music Radio Creative

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To Listen: Click on the “play” button > at the top of this page.