Writing

The Joyful Journaling Project

Lots of studies have found that people with higher self-esteem and higher self-confidence are usually happier people too. (You can learn about a few of them here.) But I have always believed that this can work the other way too. I believe that happiness can lead to more confidence.

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5 Ways to Start Your Journaling Practice

Do you have a consistent journaling practice?

I have a confession. I’m obsessed with journaling. And I want you to be obsessed with journaling, too, because my journaling practice helps me in every single area of my life.   

In my journal, I flesh out ideas for articles, essays, blog posts, social media and the See Jane Write community. 

I use journaling to process my feelings and to better understand myself and the world around me. 

In my journal, I write my prayers, my fears, my hopes, and my dreams. 

I even run to my journal when my husband makes me angry. 

To be clear, I’m not talking about your run-of-the-mill “Dear Diary” kind of journaling. When I journal, I’m not just jotting down a recap of my day. I’m writing with intention. And this type of journaling can be transformative. 

If you’re interested in beginning your own journaling practice, here are some ways to get started. 

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7 Reasons You Need to Join a Writing Group & 7 Writing Groups to Consider

Joining a writing group can be a game-changer for your writing.

In her book Writing Down the Bones, Natalie Goldberg says that we writers need to write with the whole world in our arms. I’ve long understood the importance of community for writers. In fact, that’s why I started See Jane Write.

I had just moved back to my hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, and I was looking for a writing group for women, one that would welcome multi-passionate writers who love poetry, creative non-fiction, blogging, and more. But I couldn’t find one. I searched for TWO YEARS. Then finally in 2011, I decided to start my own.

See Jane Write was born. And what started as a group for Birmingham-based writers, now has members across the country and around the world.

There are different types of writing groups. Some meet in person. Some meet virtually. Others do both. But the goal is the same — a group of writers gathers to write, give feedback, and offer encouragement.

Joining a writing group should definitely be on your end-of-the-year to-do list.

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