Yin vs YangThe Battle for Success in Life

Since the first scribblings of communication were drawn in a dark cave long ago, writing has been a therapeutic way for man to release his inner thoughts.   This ancient therapy has been around for a long time, but never has it been easier to write than today.  We have access to computers, phones, recorders, and all sorts of technologies that allow our inner creative juices to be captured.  However, to me, a simple notepad and a pencil is all you really need.

Writing is something many of us don’t do enough of.  I am not only speaking of keeping a diary, or just fiction writing, or any other one form of the art.  I am speaking of writing however you feel is best.  Maybe a blog, or a diary, or a movie script, or a song, or even a poem is your cup of tea.  Whatever form you choose to write in is perfectly fine.  It still has the same beneficial effects.

I personally find that writing this blog helps me each an every day.  I get to spend a little ‘alone‘ time writing about my past.  This gives me a chance to sit here and think about lessons and times I may have forgotten about long ago.  It gives me a chance to revisit parts of my life from a non-objective point of view and most of all, it helps me relax.

Writing can help in many ways throughout your day, so I’ve started a list for us.  I could use your help to continue to add to the list.  Simply leave a comment below with any of the ways you feel writing helps you that I may have forgotten.  Now for my list….

Reflection

Writing gives us a chance to reflect on our past, present, and even future.  The time alone with your writing tool lets you think clearly and uninhibited.  Reflection helps us grow, learn, and move on from our past.

Structure

Any form of writing forces you to structure your thoughts.  This helps strengthen your mind.  Structuring thoughts and organizing words on paper (or screen) helps you learn the best way to communicate.  Simply by forcing yourself to structure your thoughts, you are helping set up a structure for thinking in your head.

An Outlet

Writing is a great way to get things off of your chest, even if nobody else ever reads it.  It helps you tell the story to yourself, allowing you to learn from your past, and come to terms with your humanity.

Memory Enhancement

Even taking notes is a form of writing.  Writing something down gives you a much better chance of memorizing it.  Our mind has an easier time logging the things we write than the things we hear.  Therefore, I also use writing to help myself remember important facts and learn new things quicker.

Amusement

Writing is a creative outlet that allows you to go wherever you please.  Writing funny stories, jokes, quotes, or even one-liners is a great way to amuse yourself, and others if you are comfortable enough sharing.

A Challenge

Nothing is a greater challenge than creating a new habit.  Writing daily is definitely a challenge.  It is very easy to say, well, ‘I have nothing to write today’.  But, of course you do.  Anyone could write whenever they want.  There is no judge, no length, no format or any other kind of restriction.  Writing is good for you, so enjoy the challenge.  Don’t let the challenge get to you either.  Simply put the pen on the pad (or the finger to the keyboard) and see where it takes you!

Lasting

Writing is something you can save and review whenever you desire.  It is a great way to remember your state of mind during the past as well.  I have some old notes my wife sent me when she was in her mid teens.  They are about absolutely nothing, but I treasure them for their ability to transport me back to that time.

Measure of Growth

Continuing on the idea of reviewing writings from long ago, they are also a great way to measure your own growth.  Reading something from a younger state of mind always brings a smile to my face.  It’s amazing the innocence, ignorance, and humanity that comes out from looking back on your past writing.  It also reveals your own growth as a person, and allows you to wonder, ‘was i really that stupid?‘

Self-Fulfilling

Nothing is more self-fulfilling then all of the items mentioned above.  Giving yourself an outlet to reflect on your past helps you grow as a person.  Meeting a challenge helps build confidence.  Structuring your thoughts helps you communicate better.  Reviewing your writing is an amusing, lasting way to help measure growth.  And all of these things help fulfill our soul as a person.

Please add to the list some of the ways writing helps you by leaving a comment…..