Happy Sunday!
Below are 6 journal prompts for you to explore, one for each dimension of your perspective.
Personal History
We are a mystery to ourselves, which is why we spend so much time self-discovering.
What part of your past do you feel called to explore further?
Environment
Often, our sense of belonging is deeply influenced by the environments we are immersed in.
Does your environment make you feel like you belong, or does it leave you searching for a sense of belonging?
Beliefs
I am currently reading The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, and there is an excerpt from the book I would like to share with you.
For context, Santiago, the protagonist, asks the crystal merchant why he has never prioritized his greatest dream of traveling to Mecca.
The crystal merchant responds:
"Because the thought of Mecca keeps me alive. That's what helps me face these days that are all the same, these mute crystal shelves, and lunch and dinner at that same horrible cafe. I am afraid that if my dream is realized, I'll have no reason to go on living.
You dream about your sheep and the Pyramids, but you're different from me, because you want to realize your dreams. I just want to dream about Mecca. I've already imagined a thousand times crossing the dessert, arriving at the Plaza of Sacred Stone, the seven times I walk around it before allowing myself to touch it. I've already imagined the people who would be at my side, and those in front of me, and the conversations and prayers we would share. But I am afraid it would all be a disappointment, so I prefer to just dream about it." (Coelho, Paulo. The Alchemist. HarperOne, 1988, p. 57)
Is there a dream you’ve kept at a distance because you’re afraid of what will happen if it comes true? What beliefs are behind that fear?
Emotions
Emotions are not just fleeting feelings, they are invisible threads that weave together every dimension of our perspective. They are foundational to the unspoken agreements that society is built upon, shaping our values, behaviors, and interactions.
How in touch are you with your emotions? Do you know what purpose they serve, and the messages they are trying to convey?
Relationships
"Don't let pride get in your way. Pride is a luxury that sometimes you can't afford."
— Robert Sharenow
Are there any important relationships in your life where pride has built a barrier?
Identity
The person you aspire to be is something that can intentionally be carved into reality.
Every year as a part of my Annual Personal Retreat, I have a tradition called the "Envisioning Dinner". I make a reservation for one at a special place that feels elevated and inspiring. During this dinner, I envision myself sitting across from the person I want to become 365 days from now. I bring a pen and a paper, and I describe who this person is in as much detail as possible—the qualities, accomplishments, mindset, priorities, and emotions. This time allows me to begin turning the vision of my ideal self into a tangible reality. It's a transformative practice that I've done for several years now, and I highly encourage others to try it.
As you envision a future version of you, what do you see? Who do you wish to become?
P.S. DIMENSIONS is still available at 30% off, until the end of the day Monday!
Until next week,
Sadie Sanchez
Author of DIMENSIONS