(Published 2024 August)
Jotting down your thoughts first thing in the morning, a technique known as meditative writing, can help you set aside any worries, jitters, and preoccupations that stand between waking and getting your day started. It’s a pretty simple process: Write first thing in the morning, fill three sides of paper, and do it every day.
Here are a few tips to get you going:
- Pick a morning. A weekend morning, when you have less on your plate, might be the best time to start meditative writing. Set aside 15 minutes to start the exercise.
- Write. Don’t overthink what you’re writing, just keep going. Use these prompts if you get stuck: Am I tired, cold, happy? You can even write, “I don’t know what I’m doing.”
- Practice patience. Moments of illumination will come with time.
- Secure your pages. This is a safe space for your thoughts. You don’t have to share your writing with anyone—unless you want to do so.
- Give yourself grace. This should be a daily practice, but the world won’t end if you miss a day. If this practice feels too negative, it might not be the right one for you.
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