by ABFRLadmin | November 21, 2024
Corporate life is a whirlwind, where meetings blur into each other and the relentless hum of responsibilities drown out our inner voice. Staying adrift in the chaos without checking in on yourself has become a practice far too many of us have gotten used to, but Adit Ahuja, the Head – HR of Ethnic Brands at Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited, has found a sanctuary from this noise that may just be enlightening for all of us.
And fortunately for you, it’s not a place in the mountains or the calming shores of a quiet beach, but within the simple act of journaling. For Adit, this practice is not just about pen and paper; it’s a profound journey inward, one that clears the fog of the mind and opens up the heart.
The First Pages Are A Personal Dawn
It began ten years ago with Adit’s journey of being mentored by someone he admired, a commitment that soon became a mirror to his own need for reflection. “All conversations need time to breathe,” Adit says, recalling how he began taking notes, letting thoughts settle like morning mist on a quiet lake. The practice revealed the power of pausing—of looking back to understand better, much like how the first light of dawn reveals the contours of a landscape previously cloaked in darkness. Journaling became his way of capturing these quiet moments, a way to see his life from a third-person perspective, stripping away the layers of ego and bias.
A Morning Ritual Where Thoughts Take Flight
Adit’s journal is his morning companion, a canvas for his thoughts and feelings, best met in the early hours when the world is still and the mind is uncluttered. “I find weekend mornings the most conducive,” he says. These moments are like a sunrise over a tranquil forest, where the only sound is the quiet scratching of a pen on paper. He avoids journaling when emotions run high, preferring instead to let the storm pass, to wait for the calm waters that allow for true reflection. Mornings are when emotions bloom, while nights are reserved for the functionality of to-do lists and tasks—one is for the heart, the other for the mind.
The Handwritten Connection has Special Significance
Choosing handwritten notes over digital ones, he draws a connection between the act of writing and planting seeds. “Handwriting forces you to express yourself,” he explains. “It’s like feeling the soil between your fingers.” Each word is a seed planted with intention, growing into thoughts and ideas nurtured over time. Unlike the rapid keystrokes on a keyboard, handwriting offers the slowness that allows thoughts to breathe, emotions to unfold, and memories to take root. It’s a grounding practice, akin to walking barefoot on grass, feeling each blade beneath your feet.
Walking Through the Garden of Thoughts
His journal is not confined to prompts or strict formats; it’s a where thoughts are free to grow in any direction. This freeform approach allows for the unexpected—a revelation, a moment of clarity, a memory resurfaced. Over time, Adit has noticed the benefits: a deep sense of belief in his goals, a cultivated habit of gratitude, and a clearer understanding of his emotional landscape. “Journaling makes you believe,” and it’s a practice that helps one count blessings.
Navigating the Wilderness Without Fear
The journey of journaling isn’t without its obstacles. Adit initially faced the fear of vulnerability—what if someone reads these private thoughts? But like a traveller who sets out despite the fear of the unknown, he created a space of respect for his practice. “Buy a nice book, a good pen. Create a ritual,” he advises, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries with loved ones, ensuring this sacred time remains undisturbed. It’s about finding a quiet clearing, a place where one can sit and simply be.
Building Resilience Like A River Gently Carving its Path
Since adopting this practice a decade ago, Adit has experienced a shift in his mental landscape. Journaling has helped carving out channels of clarity. “I find myself far more resilient,” he says, attributing this strength to the regular outpouring of thoughts. His relationships have flourished, nourished by the honesty and openness that journaling fosters. In his own words, this practice has made him a better partner, a more understanding father, and a kinder friend. It’s taught him to celebrate not just the rain but the rainbows that follow, to acknowledge the storms and the calm that ensues after.
Clearing the Fog Of Indecision From Intention
At the start of each year, he dedicates a page to reflect on the past and set intentions for the future. This page is revisited monthly, serving as a compass guiding him. Imagine standing at the base of a mountain, looking up at the peak, knowing the path will be steep but the resolve to climb never leaves. This practice keeps him focused, reminding him that even the highest peaks are scaled one step at a time.
Dispelling Myths
There are myths about journaling that Adit feels compelled to dispel. It’s not just a tool for when things are bad. It’s not about chronicling problems or maintaining a daily ritual. “You don’t need to be a good writer,” he says. “It’s about self-expression.” Like nature, journaling is messy, unpredictable, and beautiful. It’s about honesty—speaking your truth, even if it might be uncomfortable.
An Invitation to Begin: The First Step on a Long Path
For those hesitant to start, his advice is both simple and profound: “Just flow.” Let your thoughts wander like leaves carried by the wind. There’s no need for structure or perfection; the first pages might seem like a tangle of words, but that’s part of the process. Journaling is like a river finding its course.
For those inspired to take the first step into the world of journaling, here’s a simple guide to help you get started. Remember, the practice can be as unique as you are—there’s no right or wrong, only your way. Let these points be your guide as you explore this practice.
1. Create a Sacred Space
Find a quiet corner, a serene spot where you feel at ease—your own little sanctuary. Whether it’s a cozy chair by the window, a seat in your balcony, or a quiet, dimly lit room, make this space your own. Fill it with things that comfort and inspire you. Your journaling spot should feel like a place where thoughts can wander freely, much like a bird taking flight.
2. Choose Your Tools Wisely
Invest in a beautiful journal and a pen that feels comfortable in your hand. Treat your tools with respect—they are the vessels that will carry your thoughts. The tactile experience of writing by hand can be meditative, grounding you in the present moment. Let the ink flow like a river onto the pages, capturing your reflections, dreams, and musings.
3. Allow Yourself to Flow Freely
Don’t worry about structure, grammar, or style. Just write. Let your thoughts pour out, unfiltered and raw. Like waves crashing on a shore, some days will be tumultuous, while others will be calm. Embrace the ebb and flow of your mind. The act of writing is itself the goal; there’s no need for perfection. Let your words be the map that guides you through your inner landscape.
4. Start Small, Be Consistent
Begin with a commitment you can keep—perhaps once a week or a few times a month. Consistency is key, but don’t pressure yourself to write every day. Journaling is a marathon, not a sprint. Over time, you’ll find your rhythm. Set aside specific times, like early mornings, to turn inward and write. Much like a seed growing into a tree, your journaling habit will strengthen with care and patience.
5. Be Honest, Be Vulnerable
Your journal is your safe space—a place where you can be your true self without judgment. Write about your fears, your hopes, your triumphs, and your failures. Let your words be as real and raw as the earth beneath your feet. Honesty is the heart of journaling. The more authentic you are, the more transformative the practice will become. Remember, it’s okay to stumble; every word you write is a step toward self-discovery.
