GIVE THE GIFT OF AN EXPERIENCE: Create a 2024 Journaling, Self-Discovery Book Club

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The day following Thanksgiving, commonly referred to as Black Friday, has become one of the busiest shopping days of the year in the United States, and traditionally symbolizes the start of the holiday shopping (and stressful) ) season. This tradition has now spread globally, with many other countries joining in on the  shopping bargains and discounts. 

For so many, today is the day they start creating their holiday gift-giving list. While this is often approached with the mindset of checking items off of a to-do list, there still is the intention of turning this perfunctory activity into intentionally wishing to select that "perfect gift" for those listed.  

Something just feels so good inside when we know our actions bring joy to another. 

This holiday season, consider bringing the joy of connection, togetherness, and a powerful transformation to those in your circle who would enjoy the experience of starting 2024 in this manner. A key outcome of the pandemic is the recognition of how isolated so many of us felt when unable to come together for group activities, whether in-classroom learning, yoga and/or fitness classes, or celebrating holidays and festive occasions in-person with family and friends. The isolation took its toll on us emotionally and physically, and we, more than ever, are seeking experiencing the richness of soul-satisfying interpersonal connections. 


THE GIFT OF AN EXPERIENCE

Consider forming a journaling, self-discovery book club with key individuals that you believe will embrace (or at least be open to) this experience. Through the formation of this group, which would ideally consist of approximately 5-6 members, there will be the sharing of personal wishes, aspirations,  and experiences as pathways to emotional growth through engagement in meaningful conversations. Resulting is a deeper understanding of oneself through the powerful effect of group feedback (within a supportive and caring environment). 

The sense of community, in and of itself, is powerful as it serves to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and enhance bonding and emotional connection. Relationships are key to emotional and physical well-being and health! 




THE STEPS

1. Select 5 Individuals for this Journaling, Self-Inquiry Book Club.

You can choose more but if you do, then allot extra time so that everybody (who wants to) will have the opportunity to share and participate. Five to six in a group is typically a good number. 

2. Choose a Weekly Meeting Time & Location  

For the next 12 (or more if you'd like) weeks, decide on an ideal meeting time that spans 60-90 minutes and a location. It can be outdoors at a nearby park, on the beach or lake front, at a local cafe, or rotate homes, with each week having a different member host the group. Make this fun. This is your group! 


3. As Holiday Gifts, Purchase the Journal for Each Participant.

4. Enjoy the Holiday Season and Recognize Your Presence is Your Greatest Present!




THE RULES

The LIFE IN FOCUS: A Self-Discovery Journal for Powerful Transformation is a personal discovery journal that invites the journaler to connect with intentions, goals, and gratitude and, weekly, there is an opportunity for self-inquiry; or self-reflection.

The journaler would complete the exercises and prompts alone and then share with the group (any aspect of this experience) when the group meets. 

Sharing allows for the richness of group discussion and feedback. 

Sharing and contributing to the group is invited but not mandatory. It will be important to create a comfortable environment for all. Some will come to the group much more ready to share than others. Others may need more time, especially for the first few weeks as trust is building! 

An additional benefit to group participation is that when we join forces with others, we will feel more responsible to remaining consistent and following through than when we embark on a healthy, self-care journey alone. Groups help motivate and encourage us to continue and not give-up, and serve as powerful accountability partners. 

Make this fun, comfortable and an amazing opportunity for connection!



Let's connect:

FACEBOOK: Marie Therese Rogers

 Atlantic Behavioral Health Professionals

 Life in Focus

 LINKEDIN:  Marie T. Rogers, Ph.D. 

 INSTAGRAM: Mariethereserogers

YOU ARE ALSO INVITED TO LISTEN TO THE LIFE IN FOCUS PODCAST ON APPLE AND OTHER STREAMING DEVICES. 

The information presented in this blog is intended for general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. As with most things in life, there isn't a magic pill or "cure-all" but there are strategies to help regain control of your life.










Comments

  1. MimiNovember 29, 2023 at 10:16 AM

    Hi, I’m trying to find your book, can you help me out, it’s not available on Amazon right now

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AnonymousNovember 29, 2023 at 11:45 AM

      Thank you for trying to find it. I truly appreciate it. Unfortunately Amazon has had a difficult time keeping it in stock. I believe you can still place an order but it will be awhile before you get it. The best way is to go directly through the publisher book baby.com I'll see if I can add the link here. https://store.bookbaby.com/book/life-in-focus

      Delete
  2. AnonymousNovember 29, 2023 at 11:47 AM

    I see that the BUY button has been taken down. Ugh. https://www.amazon.com/LIFE-FOCUS-Self-Discovery-Powerful-Transformation/dp/B0CFGLZJH8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10JCXK3OT62JL&keywords=life+in+focus+a+self+discovery+for+powerful+transformation&qid=1701276390&sprefix=%2Caps%2C225&sr=8-1

    ReplyDelete

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