Write Stuff
Tips for journal writing
Choose a book to write in that you really like.
It is your journal, the spelling and grammar doesn’t matter.
Keep your journal in a private place, for your eyes only.
If you write about difficult experiences or feelings, do something you enjoy before facing the
world again.
Write whenever you feel like it. Some people write for a few minutes before going to bed or first
thing in the morning.
Some journaling starting points:
With your journal and pen ready, read just one of the statements below and start writing
immediately – Try not to think too much, but discover what comes out the end of your pen.
Write as long as words keep coming. Then stop. Do as few or as many as you like.
 I am happiest when…
 I’m worried about…
 My favourite part of the day is...
 I feel most comfortable when…
 I’m angriest when…
 If I admit it, I’m afraid of…
 I’m optimistic about…
 The most important things in my life at the moment are…
 I wish I didn’t have to…
 If I had enough money I would…
 If I could do whatever I wanted right now I would…
 Words that describe me right now are…
 Things I like best about me are…
 People who know me and love me say that I’m…
Joy list
Make a list of 100 things that make you happy. Record obvious things like chocolate and
intangible things like a smile from a stranger. Add to this list often. Read it when you’re blue.
Unsent letters
Write a letter that says absolutely everything you have ever wanted to say. Address your letter to
whatever or whomever you need to e.g. Dear Mum, Dear Australian Government, Dear Birthday.
Pour everything out, don’t hold anything back - no one will ever read this. Keep writing until it
feels finished.
When you are finished decide what you would like to do. Is there an action that needs to be
taken? Or simply tear it up or burn it and scatter the ashes.
Adapted from Jennifer Louden, 1992