In September 2016, I published Journaling Power: How to Create the Happy, Healthy Life YOU Want to Live. I had no idea then how much personal growth and transformation this book would inspire. Now, as I publish its tenth anniversary edition, I find myself reflecting not only on how far I‘ve come, but on the people who have brought its message to life.
My own journaling power journey began during a challenging time. When multiple sclerosis affected the function of my right arm, I had to teach myself to write with my left hand. What began as a physical therapy exercise (thank you, Julia Cameron and your Morning Pages!) became an emotional, mental, and spiritual therapy adventure. Oh, the places I go!
Over the past decade, the responses I’ve received from readers have been among the most rewarding parts of this journey. People have told me how putting their thoughts and feelings on paper helped them make sense of difficult experiences, gain clarity about what they truly wanted, and recognize possibilities they hadn’t previously seen.
Some readers come to journaling feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about their next steps. Others want to understand themselves better or develop a more compassionate relationship with their inner critic. I’ve heard stories of people who knew what they needed to do but couldn’t seem to take that first step. By writing honestly about their fears and the beliefs holding them back, they began to find their way forward.
What moves me most is that there is no single journaling story. Each reader brings a unique set of experiences and questions to the page.
Readers have also reminded me journaling is about showing up for yourself, putting pen to paper, and being willing to explore what’s happening inside. You don’t need to know where the writing will take you. Sometimes, the most valuable discoveries emerge when you simply allow yourself to begin.
For this tenth anniversary edition, my Journal and I revisited the first book, reorganized chapters, refined the material, and added a bonus section on advanced journaling techniques. Revisiting these pages reminded me how much I’ve continued to learn, too. My own practice has evolved, incorporating meditation and deep breathing exercises alongside my daily writing.
As I look toward the next decade, I celebrate with everyone who has read Journaling Power, shared a story, written a review, or taken a chance on a journaling practice. I’m currently on a WOW-WomenOnWriting Blog Tour (highly recommend this as part of your book marketing plan!) where writers showcase Journaling Power-10th Anniversary Edition. Here’s Wendy’s review:
“Another bit of magic in this edition of Journaling Power are the a-ha moments, things like mini discoveries about myself, and others that are a result of exercises in this book. They may not even be directly related to what you have written, but BOOM, there it is—some distant memory of your childhood, or a realization of why you’re not getting enough sleep.”
Ten years later, my invitation remains simple: give yourself some me time each day, put the pen to the page, and listen to what you have to say. Your journal is there for you 24/7, and your next insight may be just a page away.