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08/22/2011

You Can't Lie to Your Journal

In a previous article, I wrote about how journaling can help you choose the right tools for your recovery. Of course journaling is a powerful tool in its own right. It's very difficult to lie to yourself when you're writing. There's something about putting pen to paper that always brings out the truth.
 
If you've been getting complacent with your recovery, your journal will start to reveal if you're headed towards relapse. Here are a few suggestions to make sure you get these important messages:
  • Keep writing, even when you don't feel like it. Start with "I don't feel like writing today..." and see where it takes you.
  • Read your journal entries to your therapist, support group or a trusted friend or family member. You'll get an outside perspective and they may recognize the warning signs before you do.
  • Re-read your own entries. You may see patterns, such as more negative thoughts or particular issues coming up day after day.
For additional free journaling tips, download the Therapist at Home e-book from our website. You may also benefit from the spirit of change 21-day journaling course. A new lesson is delivered by email every day for 21 days, but you're welcome to go at your own pace.
 
As we learned from Beth's story, even when you're doing many of the right things in your recovery, relapse can sneak up on you – especially if you're lying to yourself about what's going on. Keep talking to your journal and the truth will come out.