The best journaling technique I've discovered so far.

Summary

In this video, the creator discusses overcoming a creative block and the benefits of a specific journaling method from Julia Cameron's book, *The Artist's Way*. The technique, known as 'morning pages,' involves writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness every morning without judgment or editing. The video explores how this practice can reduce stress, boost creativity, and help individuals understand their thoughts and emotions more clearly. It’s recommended for creatives, but also anyone looking for mental clarity. The creator shares personal experiences with morning pages and encourages viewers to give it a try.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker is currently experiencing a creative block and is trying to overcome it.
• 😀 The speaker often returns to Julia Cameron's *The Artist's Way* for inspiration during creative blocks, although the book has a controversial reputation.
• 😀 *The Artist's Way* has a journaling technique called 'morning pages,' which involves writing three full pages every morning without any filters or judgment.
• 😀 The morning pages method is not about creating good writing; it's about clearing the mind and letting out all thoughts.
• 😀 The technique has been particularly beneficial for the speaker, improving both mental health and creativity over time.
• 😀 Many people, even creatives, are unaware of the effectiveness of morning pages, though it can be valuable for anyone seeking clarity.
• 😀 Writing morning pages is a practice where you don't censor your thoughts and write freely, even if the content is incoherent or messy.
• 😀 The speaker highlights the mental benefits of morning pages, including reducing anxiety, managing stress, and promoting clarity.
• 😀 Morning pages are likened to meditation, where you let your mind pour out instead of focusing on a specific object or thought.
• 😀 The practice helps the writer understand their patterns and behaviors, revealing honest thoughts about what they like or dislike.
• 😀 Morning pages are most effective when they're not seen as a chore, and the practice should be taken at a comfortable pace (e.g., 30 days or a couple of weeks) to assess benefits.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The video discusses the journaling technique called 'morning pages' from Julia Cameron's book, 'The Artist's Way,' and the personal benefits the creator has experienced from practicing this technique.

Why does the creator mention taking a break from YouTube?

The creator mentions taking a break due to a creative block and expresses that they are working through it, trying to get better with their creative process.

What is the criticism faced by Julia Cameron's book, 'The Artist's Way'?

The book has been criticized for being 'too spiritual' or 'too woo-woo,' with some readers finding it unhelpful. However, others swear by it, especially for creatives.

What is the specific journaling technique mentioned in the video?

The technique is called 'morning pages,' where you write three full pages every morning right after waking up. The goal is to write without judgment, filters, or expectations, capturing every thought that crosses the mind.

How long does it take to complete the morning pages?

It typically takes around 30 minutes to complete three pages, which equals about 10 minutes per page. However, the creator sometimes writes one or two pages if they are pressed for time.

Why does the creator suggest using an old notebook for morning pages?

The creator uses an old, unfinished notebook because the goal is not to create a perfect or neat journal. The morning pages are meant to be messy and discarded, not to be kept or reread.

What are the main benefits of writing morning pages?

Morning pages help with mental clarity, creativity, and self-reflection. The practice offers a space free from inner criticism, helping to release stress and identify hidden patterns in one’s thoughts and behaviors.

How does morning pages compare to meditation?

Morning pages serve as an alternative to meditation for the creator. While meditation involves focusing on specific thoughts or breathing, morning pages allow a free flow of consciousness, which can help reduce anxiety and stress.

What kind of thoughts does the creator typically write about in the morning pages?

The creator writes about anything on their mind, such as the things they need to do, personal reflections, or emotional states. The purpose is to clear out these thoughts to prevent them from affecting the day ahead.

Why does the creator emphasize the importance of trying morning pages?

The creator believes that everyone should try morning pages for at least 30 days to see if it works for them. They stress that the practice is not meant to feel like a chore, and if it doesn’t help, there’s no harm in stopping.