Until now, I have NEVER finished an entire journal.. I have about ten of them with a dozen or so pages scribbled on that I’ve started and abandoned over the last twenty years but I FINALLY got one and stuck with it till the end.

My secret, emptying whatever comes with NO Judgement, NO evaluation—only curiosity. I write with daily prompts and then complete after them the thoughts/feelings/reflections/memories that are top of mind. I honestly sit there and listen to myself as I write and am fascinated by what I learn from this process. I have more peace, more clarity, and more focus. I find it important not to write with anyone in mind, just put whatever bubbles up to paper. Sometimes it’s messy, contradictory, narcissistic, self aggrandizing.. Sometimes it’s compassionate, grateful, curious, and open. Being open to that and honest, I then focus on my attitude, actions, and my values to grow each day.

I was inspired to stick to journaling after reading Meditations, by Marcus Aurelius, the last great emperor of Rome.

Marcus was the most powerful man in the world, but his journal reflects the humility, contemplation, and honesty I aspire to have as a leader. In the last two years, I’ve read Meditations four times, and each time I end inspired.

Using the following prompts as a leader, I am able to focus on my day, anticipate my emotional reactions, pre-meditate on issues, and arrive prepared and clear for each event. #secretsauce

Here they are, I hope they are as helpful for you as they have been for me each day.