The Journalling Techniques that Changed My Life

[@lotusfae]

"No amount of rehearsing tragedy will ever make you ready for it." Something I've heard and known before, but really needed to hear again right now. Thank you for that!

[@canmetan670]

"Negative visualization" technique from stoicism would disagree.

[@candychip2557]

Idk I feel like this depends on the person. For me, rehearsing negative outcomes is a positive thing, it doesn't make me overly anxious but instead drags down my standards and takes off a lot of pressure, as well as lets me prepare for a bad future in case it might ever arrive. For example, for a long time I've been practicing myself with the idea that my older family members might pass away randomly at any time, so I should appreciate my time with them while I have it. Last year my grandma got a pretty serious mini-stroke and was taken to the hospital; we didn't know what was wrong with her at the time and it was scary, but unlike the rest of my family, I didn't freak out and was able to support them in a time of need. I even moved to my grandma's and kept an eye on her to make sure she was alright, and it didn't mess up my life or mental state. Of course, negative thinking is not for everyone, especially those prone to paralyzing anxiety, and everyone should let themselves grieve if the time calls for it. Just saying, rehearsing bad outcomes might work for some people

[@Connibolognese]

@@candychip2557 Thank you, this was very helpful for me. 🙏

[@sheridanhunter3297]

@@candychip2557 I have pretty bad anxiety, and I always used to assume the worst possible outcome would come true. My therapist had me write down a list of what I thought the bad outcome of a situation would be and the "evidence" I have to support that. Then she had me write down the positive outcome and "evidence" to support that as well. Based off of these two things, she then had me predict the likelihood of the negative outcome happening and if it were to happen how I would cope with the situation. It definitely makes me feel more prepared and realistic about day to day situations.

[@calmontes651]

@@candychip2557 I agree that it depends on the person, I have been practicing worst case scenario since I was 10 when I didn’t know that was a thing, I’m now 46 and it still calms me down. I did it out of habit at the start of the pandemic and it shifted my mindset as soon as I finished writing it down.

[@nicolim3946]

2:40 journalling for clarity 3:00 journalling for breaking your mindset 3:48 journalling for daily reflections 4:25 journalling for habits & lifestyle audit 5:34 journalling for when bad things happen 6:35 journalling for anxieties 8:28 journalling for your to do list & direction 9:03 journalling for decision making 9:50 journalling for direction in life

[@iBalushi]

Thank you

[@valentinamira9817]

Thank you! You’re so cool

[@sonyxperia7881]

Thank you 🙏

[@robincrowflies]

Awesome. Thanks!

[@amralsun5958]

Thank you ❤️

[@nikim6901]

"I'm a pretty anxious dude" *instinctively laughs nervously* (I've never related to anything so pure and true)

[@top10africa65]

😂💔

[@PsychoSk8r4bg]

That part made me pause just to come to the comments baha! I had to comment on how hilariously human this comes across! Great video, and great content too!

[@1m1a]

•••Journaling for clarity Sit down in one session and try to write out every thought that you're having Keep a notebook with you and every time you have a new thought just jot it down •••Journaling for breaking your mindset Imagine 6 impossible things How can I make someone else happy right now? What's something in my immediate environment that I have never noticed? •••Daily reflections What excited me? What drained me of energy? What did I learn? What are 10 things I'm grateful for? How did I push the needle forward? •••Journaling for habits and lifestyle audit Divide page into three columns --Actions --The worst version of myself --The best version of myself in first column put day's actions in other columns mark whether your good or bad self did those actions and add up •••Journaling for when bad things happen What happened objectively? What did I make it mean? How would I comfort a friend I loved if this happened to them? How is this the best thing that has ever happened to me? •••Journaling for anxieties Divide page into three columns --Fears --Fixes --The outcome that I would bet on •••Journaling for To Do list and Direction a bullet point list of all my various obligations audit the list with: --What is non-negotiable? --What is exciting? --What on my list, if done, would make everything else easier? --What of these, if the opportunity was taken away from me, would I fight to get back? --What 20% of activities are producing 80% of the results? •••Journaling for decision making What are the options? Are they mutually exclusive? If I had to make this decision in 60 seconds, what would I choose? What would this look like if it were easy? •••Journaling for direction in life What did I want 5 years ago? What do I want now? What do I think I want in five years time? If I knew I couldn't fail what would I do?

[@sahanasona]

❤

[@sofiamckay455]

Holy hell

[@EVBell-gz8iv]

thank youuuuuuuu

[@ilovehatemybrain]

That’s what I’m talkin bout

[@thezlife1486]

Prof that this is good stuff!

[@dabbyleemiller]

“No amount of rehearsing tragedy will make you ready for it” really spoke to me above all the other things that spoke to me, which is basically everything you said. Thank you so much for making this video.

[@annjuurinen6553]

I think he is a sage.

[@jellyrcw12]

Wow that is so well said, thank you for sharing!!

[@guitarsoundsaround]

It’s an interesting quote, well said! I hardly journal anymore. It’s got many great aspects, this video was great. It really helps some people. I’d encourage everyone to do it but it’s just not for me anymore.

[@eh1452]

How you talk about anxiety with calmness, normality and even humor makes me feel safe. I feel many things similar way as you do but sometimes don't feel seen, since the topics are hard to talk about. I try talking about them in a calm manner, although we anxious people know those feelings are brutal and ugly sometimes. But hearing this type of talk about it makes it just so much more tolerable. You go to the root of journalling, root of problems. You are a very brave person. That you for being! You made my day. I have to start journalling again.

[@LlamaLaQuiff]

It gets easier to talk about the further down the process you are. You should also note that it's not always easy to talk about, even if it seems like it. Can't reach the finish line without running the race, you've got this

[@erictran4384]

A Holocaust survivor once said something along the lines of: suffering ceases to be miserable the moment it finds a meaning. Therefore writing down the hardships you endure creates meaning. May your future hardships and journaling give you fire and freshness in your loins.

[@duckyluver12]

I've been journaling since I learned how to write. I was a very anxious child and my grandpa (who also had anxiety) gave me a journal for my birthday and told me that writing every day would make my life better. I'm infinitely grateful to him for that.

[@Zar2244]

That's lovely, smart grandpa

[@monicab.9093]

Do you still have all your journals?

[@duckyluver12]

@@monicab.9093 Yes! They've very interesting to go back and read.

[@hajimesenpai7996]

this is a sweet story :3

[@ronanhart5922]

My therapist has taught me to avoid saying stuff like "bad" or "good" because it makes the behavior/action feel moral or immoral. Instead, he says that behaviors are healthy and unhealthy. They're not bad or good, it's just that they may or may not be a healthy thing for me to do. So for those wanting to do #4 but it feels too harsh, maybe think of it instead as a healthy version of yourself (and healthy actions toward that person) and an unhealthy version of yourself (and unhealthy actions). I think for me I would feel too negative about myself if I put actions in the "worst" version of myself and might not want to continue journaling

[@desiv3025]

omg thank u for sharing

[@scriptkeeper8243]

This has got to be the worst advice I've ever heard. One person's good could be an absolute evil. You can't relativize existence like this and expect to make it very far.

[@PeNGuiNZoMbiEUYA]

@@scriptkeeper8243 all “evil” is subjective as people aren’t designed to do good or bad, we’re designed to satisfy our emotional needs. Lions kill for food, yet no one ever refers to them as evil, because it’s understood why they do it. The people you consider evil, have emotional needs you simply do not understand

[@oliviarose3513]

@@PeNGuiNZoMbiEUYA not all evil is subjective, everyone knows that some things are just not to be done because of how morally corrupt they are

[@db7084]

@@PeNGuiNZoMbiEUYA Hmmm. So if someone wants to slice and dice me, I must cater to their emotional needs and let them? My emotional needs are to stay alive and in one piece. So whose emotional needs win? Your mindset is the reason society is in the state it is in, why criminals are more catered to than victims, why there are all these entitled idiots running around. There IS good and bad, moral and immoral. Helping a pensioner across a street is good. Stabbing that pensioner to death is bad. Any other argument is just lefty progressive bullshit that is causing untold harm to our society. Participation medals, 'not yet competent' instead of fail, excluded instead of expelled, individual's 'emotional needs' more important than the group's, minorities are more important than majorities etc. Stop drinking the koolaid and take a sip of reality and practicality instead.

[@HellStitcher]

1. Journal for clarity 2:40 2. Journal for breaking mindset 3:02 3. Journal for daily reflections 3:48 4. Journal for habits and lifestyle audit 4:26 5. Journal for When Bad Things Happen 5:33 6. Journal for Anxieties 6:34 7. Journal for to-do list and direction 8:27 8.Journal for decision making 9:03 9. Journal for direction in life 9:49

[@shayanzaidi2836]

appreciate u ✊

[@clairebear1808]

Excellent!!!

[@mr.nobody3354]

thank you brother, have a nice day ahead

[@yohanesliong4818]

Thank you

[@swl9270]

Thanks for this breakout! I know that took some time to do…appreciate it!!

[@LisaGelhaus]

Woah! A 40 minute Keynote in 11 minutes. So many insights from such a charismatic person! I’m glad you brought your life around so you can help others.

[@Mariah-wt3xm]

You are seriously so cool. I really resonate with all these “self improvement” type videos you put out there. I love that you share personal experiences. I’m grateful for this info you put out there because it really does help me. Thanks man!

[@ratuldutta1521]

My point exactly!

[@maevahernandez7252]

I share this oppinion so much. 👏

[@flamingaish]

Exactly

[@writerandartist]

"A problem well stated is a problem half solved." Charles Kettering. I did a calligraphy of that quote once. It's useful in MANY situations. Love it!

[@jfo3000]

That quote is so true, even with difficult technical problems.

[@fabulous50s]

Wow! You have created an amazing channel that is so helpful and relevant to your generation. You give a disclaimer that you are not a qualified professional but I disagree…the exact life experience you have lived, and found a way to the other side, gives you way more credibility than a few years at Uni and a piece of paper to prove it. We’ve got it all the wrong way around, it’s people like you who are making the biggest difference in the world today. Bravo 👏

[@leaannsavage2231]

I'm 59 and it is also extremely relevant to me so it also crosses generational constructs. (I kind of dislike that word "constructs" by the way - it sounds so pretentious, but it was the best word I could think of at the time - I'm not generally a pretentious person 😉) I so agree with you that his contribution is SO valuable and his background is irrelevant to the value, but also the fodder for what made him who he is today. I LOVE stories where people overcome adversity. We are ALL struggling with different kinds of adversity (some just hide it better than others). Tribulation is guaranteed in life. How we deal with it is up to us.

[@douglascampbell4993]

Reminds me of a quote I come across once that I read and made me contemplate on for a while.. It goes; “The broken are saved by the broken..” And it just reminds me that people make it out the other side, and they are always the first to extend a hand when you need it, and you will too when you find someone needs it..

[@nichobee]

I've definitely found people such as this more helpful for me than therapy

[@GillianLarmond]

Totally agree. Life experiences makes one an expert, not a piece of paper from someone who determines whether or not you are qualified

[@Ailyloves]

You pointed out a good point! 👍🏻 Having a ton of life experiences and learning from them really helps in a sense that we get a better idea of what works and what doesn’t for us. And learning from experienced people helps as well, because they have concrete evidence. This isn’t to mock theoretical ideas or the like, because the way I see it, it sure has it’s place but at some point, we genuinely need to have someone who’s experienced in this kind of matter and take inspiration and knowledge from their side as well~ 💛

[@adgrimes1981]

This is absolutely hands down the best video about how to get started with your journaling practice that I’ve come across… Thank you!

[@j.mp10]

Agreed ☺️

[@sarahannferrigan]

Agreed

[@wendyhannan2454]

He’s fabulous, I love it.

[@MA-bt8il]

I really like you. Your raw honesty. Your humor. To survive the last few stupid chaotic years, I have begun to make junk journals out of the crap in my home. They have been sitting here, staring at me in all their creative loveliness, abandoned, forlorn, and empty. You inspired me to actually USE them. Your ideas are so simple, real, and helpful. You just made my day and validated the last 2 1/2 years of my crafting through the scams of 2020, et.al. with this simple video. I am sorry for your heartache. But I am blessed by you today, and I bless you back! :) Thank you!!!

[@Nathiusca01]

Hi! I want to give a helpful tip that my therapist gave to me to add to my journaling. If you struggle with depression and fixate on your thoughts like I do... It is just to make a list for the next day of the essential and basic things that have to be done and check them as you accomplish them. For example for me are things like brush my teeth, brush my hair, take a bath, take my vitamins, clean my pets' dishes. It may sound stupid but I forget to do all of these and I found myself at night feeling more ashamed and guilty than when I woke up just cause I let my thoughts win. As the days go by and you see your lists with the items checked out you'll feel better and proud and later when you realise you find yourself doing those things with joy. Hope that helps ✌️

[@zijing9548]

I've been doing this for about 2 years now, really helps

[@Amani9800]

IM THE SAME WAY! I'm thankful 🙏 for you

[@adelafaith9604]

Proud of you! This video has so much wonderful content. I started my journey out of overwhelm and disorder with marla cilley aka fly lady..worth looking her up. She starts with putting on shoes, taking things 15 mins at a time baby steps, cleaning your sink so it make you smile and making the bed. The day is pretty much conquered after that. Little by little, being gentle on yourself xx

[@bonniedavis9076]

I've gone from knowing & not doing to not knowing & feeling panicking cause it wasn't in my thoughts.

[@Paulabird7]

Yes, agree! I wash my hair, do my animal chores, do morning pages. Bare minimum but gets me moving and focusing forward.

[@kalvinlyle]

I journal every day, but it’s always a stream of conscious dump. It’s helpful for sure, but I’m excited to try something more structured :)

[@sparklypoof]

same! these 9 ideas are going to be fun to explore!

[@whatwhale5888]

Its unreal how relatable this guy is. Honestly his advice helps more than anybody elses, simply because he gets it

[@tiegz9770]

Hearing that I'm not the only one who has anxiety fixations and catastrophizes unrealistic events helps me alot, thank you for your candidness ❤

[@Sigma.Infinity]

Two more journalling techniques I find useful: writing letters not to send and writing down daydreams as stories. (1) When you have unfinished emotional business with someone but can't express it to them directly (for whatever reason), write a letter to them that you don't intend to send. It can be someone you're angry with, or who has hurt you, maybe a bully, or someone who you love from afar. It could be someone who has died that you're grieving about, or anyone else that you wish to communicate with. For me, it's when I feel angry, or hurt, or trampled on by someone, especially in workplaces, that's when I do this mostly. Go at it and say to them exactly what you want to say, then store it away (or send it if you dare). Or, you can write to an imaginary counsellor and pour it all out to them. You can do it in email form (with a blank "To" field for safety!) and then stash it in your Drafts folder if you prefer. (2) Spontaneous daydreams are the mind's way of telling us what we want. Sometimes they paint that picture accurately, sometimes they exaggerate, and sometimes they paint the feeling we yearn for even though the practical details of the daydream are just a useful backdrop. Whatever the case, I find it amazing to write down these daydreams as though I am writing a story. Doing this can be cathartic and also a great help in finding out what you really want deep down. Often what we long for are not the practical details we imagine (that job, that relationship, that holiday, that whatever). Rather, it is the *feeling* we yearn for that we believe these things will give us: that feeling of freedom and adventure, that sense of belonging and love, that pride and sense of meaning that comes with our talents being recognized, the excitement of novelty, or of breaking out of our shell and running wild, expressing ourselves, or a sense of personal strength and empowerment, and so on.

[@reynajelly]

Sounds like amazing advices!

[@riot_flowers]

Thank you for this!

[@carolinaardenghi2749]

Sometimes I do the (2) but I feel so stupid reading it!

[@pravashi_382]

I've done the first one a lot myself,didn't think about the 2nd one,maybe because i love to "act it out" instead 😅,not exactly like the way of the daydream but eh i roleplay it with whatever i have and then, waste HOURS,i just saw a video about maladaptive daydreaming hehe😅.

[@Sigma.Infinity]

@@pravashi_382 Roleplaying the fantasies is a great idea. Haha! I think I'll try that.

[@Makebuildmodify]

Dude! I just pre-ordered the book! I don't care if the book is bad (I know it won't be). I bought it because I want to support another KZbinr that is worth supporting; and I think that you and your team definitely are. I hope the book does well.

[@victor_cuc]

Same 🙋‍♂️

[@royetter1777]

Holy Crap! I just failed at a week-long "Journalling challenge" partially because I couldn't figure out what to write and couldn't motivate myself to even pick up the notebook. Thank You! Looking forward to the promised deep dive videos

[@brefritzsching455]

As soon as you pick it up you will feel inspired! Just start writing about literally anything. Weather, your 5 senses is a great one, hobby literally anything and then it sparks your inspiration. I have tried to follow prompts before and I always end up spending an hour looking for prompts rather than just writing. You can also brain dump a bunch of things that you want to find out about yourself and explore and then go off that

[@KirinChan1998]

you didn't fail! just starting is a wonderful thing!

[@royetter1777]

@@KirinChan1998 Nope, I'm gonna own it. I wanted to journal, but I failed to do it. Having the right tools is a step forward, though.

[@TheMoochiecat]

"What did I make it mean?" The first time I heard this concept it absolutely blew my mind and it shows how much power we really have even though we think we are powerless. Thanks for your journaling tips! I'm having a very difficult time with a coworker and any tool I can use to help me through this is welcomed.

[@BeckyValkyrie]

Same here. That bit really resounded with me.

[@lovewroteme]

My life spiraled down to rock bottom in 2009 - I was 18 as well. Journaling literally saved my life. And I've never stopped since.

[@snxlxphant09]

I've wanted to journal for a while now and just didnt know where to start. I wrote out all of your points at the start of my journal as prompts to go back to when I get stuck. Having the structure already there, and not having to stress about it really helps. Thank you so much!!

[@AngelaNortonTyler]

Such a good idea- so smart!

[@marina.artoflife]

Omg, who are you?? I love when YT surprises me like this from time to time... Congratulations on getting out of that place 12 years ago. And when it comes to anxiety, you're just afraid of the power you have inside. Nothing else. Don't be afraid to do great things you were meant to do. Stay well, stay sane, keep inspiring.

[@accenttraining4professiona864]

That’s an interesting point- I also had this inkling that anxious thoughts are due to being afraid of my power inside. We are all power houses, but afraid to entertain change that may lead to a better life. That is probably something to work on with a therapist ?

[@pritika5968]

I have adhd and tend to daydream a lot. I noticed this a year ago when i watched a video on maladaptive daydreaming and realised it was me. So I started journaling to start taking control of my life. Sometimes it makes me cry how hard it is to stop myself from escaping reality but I try to and apply all the practical stuff you teach in your vids as activities and they really help me a lot when I note down my thoughts. Thankyou so much. I know you won't read this textwall but I always wait for your next vid and it always makes my day man

[@cardisea]

It's more like a text fence.

[@pritika5968]

@@cardisea well yes but ykwim

[@yaoipurpleheart]

Do you remember the video you watched about maladaptive daydreaming

[@dragondancer5150]

It's kind of funny but journaling got me through high school with severe, undiagnosed major depressive disorder back in the early 90s. I've always been a writer, and I discovered almost by accident the magic of actually just sitting down and word-vomiting into the pages of a notebook one day because I just couldn't take the maelstrom in my head any longer. I wound up dedicating that notebook, and at least two more after it, to just brain-dumping when I needed to. I'd never heard of journaling, and I had no idea that WTH WAS WRONG WITH ME!?!?! was actually something real and not just me being some kind of screwed-up weirdo. All this to say - JOURNALING IS MAGIC. Thank you again for these videos that you put out. I adore both your sense of humor and your courage to get raw with strangers on the internet. I can tell you that what you do is amazing, and helpful, and we don't know each other but I'm really proud of you for giving of yourself like this, and if we ever had the chance to meet one of these days, I'd love to chat over coffee or something. Anyway, pre-ordered your book some time back and can't wait for it to come out. TAKE CARE!

[@ESaturday123]

I like how this is a journaling method that incorporates CBT skills in a way that’s really digestible. CBT has helped me a lot and this seems like a really organized and simple way to implement these skills.

[@johnathantai]

Hey man, I don't know if you'll ever see this. I'm 15 and I'm from Hong Kong, I just came across your channel yesterday and I think it's one of the best discoveries I've ever made. A lot of what you've done really resonated with me, I personally went on digital detox not too long ago, I just want to say thank you for taking your time to make these videos. Your philosophy really helped me a lot, and it finally feels like there's something sustainable I can do for my life. This video particularly helped me today, I was having a pretty bad day, or so I thought but your point on cognitive distortions knocked me out of that, after following your techniques it was like my mind was suddenly cleared again and I could make rational decisions. Honestly, I cannot express more gratitude, for the first time in 2 years I feel like I'm starting to gain control of my burnouts

[@jayg789]

As the daughter of an addictions councillor these are the exact things I wish everyone’s parents could teach them. Tools for a healthy lifestyle stem so much further than those to help you get college degrees, impress during job interviews and receive high pay checks

[@jakesheath8382]

Your videos on relatable self improvement have been a turning point in my life. I felt like I was stagnating at uni, my friends were all getting government jobs, my girlfriend graduated as a doctor and I felt like I couldn’t get my sh*t together. I was felt like a pathetic loser who wanted to make music all day. Since your videos I have started journalling, feel inspired by life again and I’m on a strong uni trajectory whilst balancing a music career. You are an absolute legend! Keen for the book! Stay awesome

[@waschell1]

I'm a licensed counselor and always felt kind of lame telling people to journal like, "really?" lol because it sounded so simplistic but now I can share this vlog to show just how profound it can be! Thank you, you Rock!

[@aurbb2u]

This was hands down the best video I've ever seen about journaling towards mental clarity and growth without including trite basic prompts, but by using prompts that truly dive down into the heart of the issues. I am genuinely excited at the prospect of starting to dig in. Thank you, really, so much.

[@danielfalboyt]

Hey, it's been 1 year since this comment. In the case you've found your journaling style and made it an habit, huge congrats! Otherwise, check out this tool I just built to reflect and improve the areas of your life that you need to the most, and make journaling effortless trywellbio.com ::) If you try it, feel free to contact me for any feedback at [e-mail]

[@jackielove00]

Wow! This was NOT what I expected, or what I've come to expect these days. It was LOADED with fantastic points, ideas, tips, fun, colourful and delivered some of the best bang for the buck I've seen in recent years. Loved the presenting style. Really happy I found this. Now going to force everyone I love to watch it and buy the book! Thank you so much.

[@CB-zs7lj]

I stopped buying diy books long ago but I had to buy yours. No regrets! I'm hitting my 60's and have started having constant memory flashbacks (good and bad). They have been making me crazy. I still don't know why its starting now, but your book is so enlightening! You've made a difference and wonderful contribution to mankind. I just wanted to say thank you.

[@Exhibit_my_Tidbit_of_Cheese]

Growing up I got diagnosed with bipolar type two. I ignored that illness for 3 years, granted I took my medicine, but I did emotionally accept it until recently this year. When you came out and said " I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder" it nearly brought me to tears. I was so happy that someone that I highly look up to has the disorder and can talk so freely about it. I can only name one famous person (Kanye west) who has the disorder, but I don't see him as a role model or as someone special to me. So, thank you, you are an amazing person and I look up to you. -Mckayla

[@dianeo]

"No amount of rehearsing tragedy will ever make you ready for it..." I need to remind myself this and shut my catastrophizing brain off.

[@jenniferfields10]

Hello, I'm a fellow writer and a chronic journaler as well. Love the video! You're going to change a lot of people's lives with this. AND you published a book?!? I am so proud of you! You should be super proud of you too!! If you don't have a mama to be proud of you, I will gladly be your beaming proud mama in Spirit. You rock!

[@hidden_trax]

I've slept on journalling, and I think it's time I wake up. Gave the first one a try, the mind dump, and it amazes me how easy it was to get rid off sudden thoughts. Also, that part I read in your book too, and that was an action I immediately took after reading it, wrote every single thought I had in my head into MS Word and BOOM, it became more of a quiet place than ever. Keep it up dude!

[@lorimcconnell9737]

Just preordered your book for my son - he’s going through a lot right now. Thank you so much for everything you’re doing and I’m so glad you were able to turn your life around - you are quite an inspiration! Keep up the great work!

[@jojoco6737]

I hope your son is doing better! You are a great Mom. Tell him to stay strong! Im praying for you Both. God Bless.

[@belifuna]

This is amazing! I usually do the brain dump method of journaling but sometimes don’t feel like doing that. It’s awesome to have different prompts to get the juices flowing.

[@beads2yarn]

That was so useful and enjoyable I watched it twice to make notes, then ordered your book. I am so looking forward to seeing it.. thank you for sharing 🙋🏻

[@caitlynwatts1855]

Something I've really started to realise in the last few years is that most of the corny cliche stuff we learn and are told growing up really does hold so much weight. There's a reason you hear the same quotes and concepts through life and when you finally stop trying to reject those concepts and take them on board in the way you live things get so much easier. There is always so much to learn about ourselves and the world around us, once you open yourself up to seeing things from a different perspective it can be a bit overwhelming but it's also very freeing at the same time. Listening to those messages that keep arising will show you what things you subconsciously are already wanted to change, you know before you're aware of it and will see and hear things more frequently that resonate with you or your situation invoking a change within yourself. By no means is it easy but if a saying of some kind or similar advice keeps popping up it would be a good idea to pay a bit more attention to it and ask yourself why.

[@georginatrousas8040]

You are my new favourite person! Finally, someone on KZbin who speaks factually and provides real and relatable struggles, and does it in such a wonderful, funny, serious and creative way. I'm so grateful for finding this channel

[@Jessica-df9js]

I took the first step today and spoke to a professional about my mental health. We were talking about journalling and I was really curious how to structure it for it to have the best effect. Timing on this video is excellent for me. Thank you. Love your work and pre-ordered your book :)

[@RealJamieBarclay]

Most people live the same day over and over again on repeat. Journaling allows you to break the bad cycle, improve your thoughts, and take back control of your life. Love from a small youtuber 💙

[@madwilliamflint]

Man I love your vids. Every time. It's insane. I wish you'd stop "apologizing" for not being an Expert. Who are the experts? Academicians who study the theory? Or the people who hit the road with this stuff in their life for real and improve the lives of people around them through their example? You haven't improved my life. That would be silly. But you've sure given me a bunch of tools and encouragement to do it my self. o7

[@VimblesArt]

I don't think that him disclaiming that he's not an expert is a bad thing, if we're truly honest: nothing is for certain. He's just aware of the things he does and doesn't know and i find that very admirable. Especially considering that truly, mental health tips don't universally work for everyone. So basically: nobody is an expert and everyone needs to find their own path. He's just here to tell us what has worked for him

[@madwilliamflint]

@@VimblesArt I REALLY think he's selling himself short.

[@riledmouse4677]

One of the smartest people I’ve ever worked with told me early in my career not trust anyone who calls themselves an expert, and it’s proven to be very solid advice.

[@madwilliamflint]

@@riledmouse4677 *nods* It's an easy one. You should have to tell someone you're an expert.

[@jamesaritchie1]

What you say sounds very, very logical, but it's pure, low IQ nonsense.

[@rebeccasmith4520]

I work in a creative arts university in the wellbeing department and have shared these techniques with students and they have helped some may people! I found them and used them for myself. So grateful for this video, absolute game-changer! 👏🙌

[@anthonywatanabe9913]

I watched this video about a year ago and added the book to my Amazon wish list. Finally bought the book and was blown away by it. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos and for writing that book. Much love and respect.

[@aysedemirci2092]

Man it's been such a blessing to have access to this type of content. Thank you for offering tools that have such a positive impact, especially for people that are struggling with severe mental health issues and don't have the financial means to see a licensed therapist. I'm supposed to work on my thesis, but have been heavily struggling with getting my PTSD symptoms under control. Dissociating has been the only coping mechanism to help me get through the day, but I believe that trying some of these techniques will immensely help me to make my situation a whole lot more manageable. Again, I can't thank you enough!

[@sarahroberts8110]

Never been compelled to comment on a video before, but wow. I’ve shared this with several people as well. First time a KZbin suggested video has been so completely and utterly bang on. Communicated so well, great suggestions that have never been explained in such a pragmatic way to me. Watched this twice yesterday, and have done several of the techniques you’ve suggested today. 🤯😊😎 I feel the best I have in ages. Thank you. 👏🤜👌

[@michellewhatsherface2749]

I can finally write something in my several empty journals lying around. I get anxiety whenever I sit down and try to write something. I never know what I’d like to write down but this video gave me such a nice direction. I enjoyed it so much I just pre-ordered your book. I can’t wait to own a copy, I cherish every book I add to my library very much. Thank you for helping people with this and sharing your experiences. I’m glad you’re in a better place now. Bless you ♥️

[@jazzyjamvs1125]

i love this dude. you can tell how journalling really helps by his example.

[@luhan5123]

This video is so good and one has to have such balls to be honest with oneself to do it, I will definitely do this and I hope you're doing even better every time bcause you deserve it

[@rawkrXbabee]

You're literally the older brother I've always wanted. I get so happy every time I see a video of yours pop up on my feed :)

[@MBS.FIT237]

Wow, this is so insane. I had never considered anything about journaling to help my anxiety until yesterday. I was thinking of ways of how to write down my overwhelming thoughts. I just now sat down for my lunch break, and turned on KZbin. This was the very first video that came in my recommendations. Either something of greater power is watching over us, or our phones have started listening to our thoughts:) great video!!

[@christinealessandrini4280]

I would say both ! ;-)

[@michaelaback3674]

Another great video! I love the actionable advice (because "journal about it" is overwhelming in itself for me!) and your homour as always. Pre-ordered the book because it seems right up my alley :)

[@ShellyGraham-wk9vy]

Thank you for this!!! I have wanted to journal for a long time. I have filled the first two pages of dozens of journals over the years and then abandoned them. I am sticking with it since I started watching your channel. i bought and love your book!

[@overthemoo]

I appreciate that you give a good amount of examples for the less familiar techniques. It’s a figurative push or nudge to get going, which is something I often need - even for the most basic assignments.

[@ryancoomber5709]

Struth. thank you for this. I really needed this today. I will start journaling with the help of your advice. I wish you the best

[@astamaisha5801]

I’m 20 years Old and recently I’ve started having a lot of anxiety and having really bad thoughts and watching this (and more of your videos) has help me a lot. Even just think about the things I would write to some the questions helped me calm my emotions and anxiety ❤

[@lilsun]

ahhh!! im so excited for your book! love your videos. you've totally made it possible for me to get out of funks and pursue my passions 🥺💗 i love you so so much and have a great day today! 💗

[@hlb0111]

This really opened my eyes to how these techniques can help me deal with trauma and stress and actively observe if I'm moving in the direction I want. Thank you for this video.

[@jasonarneson1814]

Well done to you, James. I’m probably reiterating but yours is the clearest, concise, and constructive methodology to journal. Thank you.

[@wordscrafter]

I'm so happy you're still here. And that you're so brave and open. I'm learning that my mother, grandmother, and sister are narcissists and I need to overcome their programming. I have a variety of journaling styles and I've done the point system, but not your way. Definitely going to adopt it. Thank you so very much for posting this. You're awesome. No, really. I admire you. Thanks.

[@julialedra]

I've started journaling about 4 years ago, but mostly just used the "dump all thoughts onto a blank page" technique and these seem like a more focused a specific way to deal with some of life's curveballs. I'll definitely try them out, I'm actually super excited to see how they would work out in my life, so thank you so much for sharing them ❤

[@athertondrenth]

Loved this! Boy, you really nailed it! Journaling is such a lifesaver and you have definitely taken it to a whole new level of deep introspection!

[@rosco-m]

Well this was the most concise and useful video on journaling techniques that I’ve seen. You cut the B.S. and got straight to the point rather than dance around the topic without actually saying anything like most people do. Thank you!

[@gitarmac]

This is the most useful journaling video I've ever seen. So many useful techniques and exercises. Thanks for posting 😊

[@Tasoan]

When I'm at one of my lowest mental points but I've started journaling and you come along and give me pointers. Suddenly today, I feel like I can do it. Thank you.

[@drranger4210]

I absolutely love love love this! I'm a therapist and have always given journal prompts because I know how anxiety-producing it can be to just sit before a blank page! I'm loving your categories and definitely plan to integrate that concept into my work.... is there a way to credit you?

[@tonicunningham9007]

Just wanted to point out that I've watched this video 5 times and am happily increasing your view count! You should TOTALLY make your own journal using these prompts and your ART!

[@suckmadicktits]

i have 3 months clean from iv addiction and its been difficult finding videos that i can actually relate with enough to listen to, but your videos have been lifting me up little by little. as an artist and recovering addict your channel has given me a nice little place i can go for a brief reminder/reprieve when i get bogged down. pretty much just watch your channel and After Skool these days

[@travisgardner8713]

When I’m having a rough day and can’t get grounded I put on one of your videos. I hope you know how much you are helping other people. I was so lost and had no idea where to turn for a long time. Your videos have helped guide me in the right direction. I had given up on myself. Now I’m studying and practicing my art and pushing myself to become a tattoo artist at 37. Next week I’m on my way around my city with my portfolio. I’m prepared to get shot down and that’s okay. I hope to pull some information from who I can to help me get better then head out again until I nail it. Thanks for all your help. Shit got hard there for a bit and I for one appreciate you. Keep doing what you are doing.

[@noniew0lf]

So excited for this, you’re incredible 🥰

[@sandopau]

Thank you for this! I learned so much in less than 11 minutes than in many other classes/videos. More power to you! 💖

[@jaimetan]

Loved these journal prompts, taking notes here! And CONGRATS on the book, how exciting!! 🙌❤️🙌

[@sketchypeoplepdx]

Keeping a journal is key to health! Thanks for these amazing tips! I haven't touched the bottle in nearly a decade and journaling has been such a great constant of a healthy mind-set.

[@Joyhopefaithlove]

That took discipline. Congrats!

[@Zedster42069]

Finally found someone who actually explains how to journal thank you for your time bro 🙏🙏

[@carolg.5313]

Love this channel and this video. Haven’t journaled in a while and I’m happy to have some new techniques! Thanks so much!!❤️😁

[@nayacmaynor]

"Rehearsing tragedy" I felt that.

[@spinsterpunk]

Thanks for this @struthless I needed a non cottagecore clusterf***ks guide to journals

[@borbitol]

God, that's the best journaling guide on KZbin. Thank you so much for your fresh ideas.

[@seren.itywrites]

For some odd reason, I continually put off watching this video for weeks. I felt like I had no direction, busted out my journal and decided to finally watch this video. Thank you so much for this video💛

[@dameanvil]

00:14 📝 Journaling is a powerful practice for mental clarity and direction, especially during challenging times. 01:38 🧠 Journaling provided relief from chaos and stress, allowing thoughts to be externalized and processed. 02:35 🗒️ Nine journaling techniques discussed, tailored to various aspects of life and personal growth. 03:59 🤔 Daily reflection questions (excitement, energy drains, gratitude) offer valuable self-insights. 04:55 📊 Lifestyle audit technique (identifying actions and their alignment with desired self-image) for personal improvement. 06:34 🚫 Separating anxieties into fears, fixes, and likely outcomes helps alleviate and manage anxiety. 08:56 🗂️ Prioritizing tasks and obligations through a strategic approach, ensuring focus on what truly matters. 09:51 🧭 Directional journaling involves reflecting on past desires and present goals to find a clear life path. 10:48 📚 Book available with additional journaling exercises for mental clarity and personal growth.

[@JeffNixonComedy]

My journals always devolve into doodles…doodles of a guy journaling, that is ;)

[@Nehway]

You should start calling these videos *“Struth’s Truths”*

[@Joe-ou1iw]

omg i love you

[@ashleybrown5252]

Wow, I don’t know exactly how I came across this video, did a search that was a shot in the dark at something to spark any sort of interest to me, or to bring any amount of productivity & positivity into my life / routine which I’ve been desiring but get stuck in ruts! I am a JOURNALING FOOL! Sometimes people think I am crazy I think. I have never ever met anyone that is as passionate about it and feels the exact same way about it that I do!! Thank you so much for putting this out here. I no longer feel absolutely insane & definitely like your suggestions as I currently ALWAYS keep a journal with me (and I will probably never ever stop) because its the only way I can get clarity like you said literally a mind dump!!! But I’m so excited to apply these strategies in my daily usually morning / night journal session idk I’m just SO HAPPY AFTER THIS VIDEO. I relate in every way. The anxiety. Ohhhh man the anxiety 😥 all of it. You are awesome, dude!!! Glad I found this channel these are some gooood vibes!!!!

[@GrubsAreTough]

My life has hit a point where it’s never been harder to think and function. This is going to help me start my journaling journey in hopes of better days. Thank you for this.

[@ItsMeShanalee]

idnt know u, n idnt evn have much $ rn but I’ve just subscribed n preordered bc...thank u. ifcks w ur vibes n I hope to better my life: shit show is an understatement friend 😅 im excited4 October n congrats !!!

[@nency6642]

I must say, this is literally the best journaling video I've ever came across! These tips that you've given, I'm gonna try it out and I already know that it's gonna help me alotttt!!! Love from India ❤️

[@S.Blackburn]

Thank you, your videos have been a tremendous help, I've found my self in a rut since my husband passed. I will be ordering your book. The journaling or "morning pages" have assisted in my mental health and over all positive growth more than I ever expected.

[@curryberry7930]

Im more than happy to have found Your channel. Ive already decided „7 things i wish i knew in my 20s” was in my top3 videos ever. Thank you for being authentic and sharing with us all. You motivate me to be kind to myself but also work on my self at the same time. Love love love your channel!❤️

[@JuliaBumstead]

I really really really appreciate this because my ADHD teen who wants to know how to journal could actually listen and take tools from it and he didn’t get exasperated with boredom. Thank you for just putting the information in there while still being yourself. Maybe the most helpful journaling video I have ever stumbled across!

[@lesliewells1062]

I love your videos!! I'm old enough to be your grandma, but that doesn't mean you don't have a lot of wisdom I can learn from! Thank you!

[@trinita5748]

Okay I'm just a teen who was searching a guidance for how to start a journal , and stuff , I searched through yt, and unfortunately couldn't find a good one like I wanted , then at last, when I was gonna give up, I found your vdo , and I absolutely loved it , thanks so freaking much for making this vdo and and helping many needy ppl like me out there , thanks so much again , it really helped me , I got the guidance I wanted and the vdo was really helpful , and freaking loved the way u explained every each single point thanks sm again!!! :) hope u have a good day

[@christinejoysantos5127]

wow, this video resonated with me in such a spiritual way i can't even describe it. i have been rambling about how i needed a way to vent out my thoughts strrategically, i have been journalling for years but i just realized that all i did was to make a planner lmao. this video helped me a lot, and it's not just me that got helped

[@kimberlytighe9094]

omg i think you just save me. this helped so much i cant wait to start my journalling journey. my PTSD and EUPD are driving me up the wall and i was told to watch this vidoe and i just cant wait to start. thanks

[@briannastevens9009]

i never post comments but i have to say this is my new fav video on youtube. the fact that ur a dude and are being vulnerable in the public eye is amazing. ur vulnerabilities helped me and clearly so many others. i struggle w vulnerability so i envy those that make it look easy lol thank u for this video. stay awesome