I have that book. I tried this routine. I did not have the same results. That much writing uninhibited became a place to be really negative. As soon as I gave room to that kind of thinking it escalated and wound me up to set me on a horrible path for the day. My emotions became all negative. Today, I still have a routine of being with a journal each morning but I limit the run away negativity by sticking to listing things to be grateful for and checklists like to do lists. For me, the way to be optimistic all day is to practice on purpose. I am leaving this comment because it took me awhile before I realized I was getting the opposite results and I want others understand that it is OK if it doesn’t work for them.
Of course different people can have different experiences, but I'm wondering if you were also doing the rest of the program from the book? Because part of the value for me was that doing the Morning Pages exposed the negative patterns in my thinking, which is what allowed me to work through them - i.e., figuring out where the voice of my inner critic stemmed from, and how to respond to him, and so on. Or figuring out what parts of my life / people in my life were making me really unhappy, so I could figure out where I needed to make changes. And so on.
You speak of practicing on purpose. Make your morning pages about that. The idea of morning pages is simply an a lot of time to review your feelings, and you are solutions to barriers, to overcome the day.
I really appreciate this comment as I have experienced a similar process and started to question if I was doing it wrong or just not doing it long enough to get the benefits, but your experience was spot and I find it really comforting to be reminded just different things work for different people and it’s not always a one size fits all thing, so thanks for that ❤
I found The Artists Way in the 90’s and started writing in 1998. I’m now on volume 108 (I use a standard journal with 256 pages) and will hit my 25th anniversary soon. It has evolved for me over the years. I have periods of creativity, periods of introspection and periods of mundane daily review. I still enjoy and believe in the process.
Interesting. I destroy mine monthly because I wouldn't want anyone to find them after I'm dead and think they were a journal, because they're honestly insane.
Is there any way you could share it .........I am a little interested in reading it (if u don't mind)........ A stranger reading ur journal who u r never gonna meet in ur life.... wouldn't affect u at all
I destroy mine too and with 100+ volumes is would be crazy to go through. Part of the Artists Way process is to not re-read them. It’s an exercise to push past the mundane and open up your thinking. I have kept a few that contain significant events like weddings, births, etc. I do find the focus evolves based on where my head is at. For a time I found myself writing prayers for others. At other times I worked through problems. Right now I’m writing a lot of “to do” lists as I moved last year and am getting the basement on the new house finished and there are a lot of balls in the air. Oh, and retiring next year so there is a bit of panic/excitement in my writing too.
I'm one of those people who says this practice changed my life, and I'm leaving this comment in case anyone is on the fence. Specifically, I credit them with the fact that I speak a second language now (which I didn't realize I wanted to learn until my own writing revealed it to me); play an instrument (ditto) and have musician friends I can jam with; identified and consciously overcame my self-image issues so that I was able to approach people, with the result that I am now in a loving, fulfilling relationship (about to reach our 8th anniversary). I started exactly this way: 30 days, no skipping, in the hopes of setting a new habit. That was nearly 15 years ago. I have filled 61 books to date. The pages clear the clutter out of my head, help me find mental and emotional quiet to start my day, and identify likes and priorities, much as you mention here. I don't have a therapist (can't afford one) and I 100% believe that the Pages have become my therapist, by revealing myself to me, and often uncovering a deeper wisdom that I can follow, instead of the frenetic fretting and darting of my usual thoughts. I feel like I get to meet myself, have a quiet, deep conversation with myself, every day. I'm also a proponent of longhand for this practice, even though I'm an extremely fast typist and do everything else with a keyboard. I agree that writing by hand slows you down to the mental equivalent of a walking pace, very conducive to being thoughtful. A secondary benefit is that my handwriting provides visual feedback revealing my my emotional state. Anger makes me write one way; optimism another. When I feel tied up in knots, my handwriting comes out small and cramped; balanced, the writing becomes fluid and generous; angry, and it's big and angular. Everyone does this a little differently. Here's what I kept from Cameron's guidance: I do write in the mornings, to start the day; I write longhand; I write a set number of pages. My version is that I write four pages of a 8"x6" lined journal. I use a fountain pen, not to be pretentious but because after trying a lot of different implements I found that fountain pens allow me to go fast (ballpoints have too much friction) and that the look of the filled page pleases me (gel pens are too even, compared to fountain pens' rhythm of heavier and thinner ink placement - ink pools a little; and pencil is too faint). It's not always the first thing I do upon rising, but I find it's best to do them before consuming any media or engaging in any significant tasks. It's not for everyone. I can imagine someone who is not as 'verbal' or language-based wouldn't find the same level of benefit. But for me, I think in words most of the time; and the thoughts and feelings that don't have words, and can therefore go unacknowledged and unaddressed, reveal themselves when I routinely sit down to just write.
I tried the morning pages routine a few years ago. I was more like a night owl back then, so I used to write them at night, before going to bed. I remember it was hard to fill those three pages, in the beginning, but after a few weeks of doing it, I sometimes got into a flow in which I couldn't recognize my own thoughts. It's hard to explain, it felt like reading someone else's ideas, someone with a different thinking pattern. Did you ever have this experience?
Not sure it it is the same, but I had the feeling that something was going through me and I just wrote it down as a tool. Idk, it was a special experience in my life. But I stopped and I can't get back to it. Maybe it needs some time once again before it will flow.
I have read this book and I tried morning pages and went on date with my self I start loving alone time most and spending time with people with loud voices and pointless talks makes me irritated and I left the place I don't feel comfortable I started loving my own company but when it comes to write 3 pages I got tired after a month and it's get hard to write and I quite but I know it's a sign from universe that I need to be more disciplined to achieve more so I need to start writing it again.
I’ve done braindump writing before and found it very therapeutic. You make a good point about not reading what you’ve written. I really like the idea of filling a notebook then burning it. The excess rubbish is no longer taking up space in your brain, nor is it taking up space physically.
That’s interesting. One of the many reasons that I journal is to read them when I’m older and think back on those moments. Be it good or bad or hectic or peaceful.
One of my teachers in primary school made us do 2 morning pages first thing in class. And at the end we put all the pages together as a background for an exposition poster about… something I don’t remember what. I really liked that I started writing faster, I liked the moment of quiet and rest with which class started rather than all the noisy messiness you usually have at the start of a primary class. Last semester I had a lecturer who let us meditate for 5 minutes halfway through, and that helped a lot in keeping up my attention. It provides energy and a breather :)
Expressive writing is a game changer. Write about your deepest, darkest thoughts. Writers seek to exorcise their thoughts, the process is cathartic, and at the end of the day with the thoughts on the page your mind is freed. Happy writing!
I've been doing morning pages for years. It really clears the mind. At times when I've been seriously depressed I don't even get out of bed. I just lay there on my stomach and write. If the depression is really bad I'll most likely fall back to sleep. Morning pages help immensely. It gets easier and more insightful as time goes on. It's as crucial as breathing. I wouldn't be the successful person I am today without this practice.
@Fofa Yaseen The idea of morning pages is not to decide on a thing to write about, but to let the jumbled thoughts that are already going through your mind spill out onto the page. It takes time and practice to learn not to deliberately filter or structure those thoughts. I really suggest trying to find the book, The Artist's Way, and try the Morning Pages while working through the rest of the book.
Been doing this for decades, since the book was first published. A few comments. Doing it longhand is important. It has to do with the difference in brain function. You are stimulating the right part of your brain when you do it longhand. Do it in the morning. I keep my MP journal next to my bed with the pen. As soon as I wake up, I grab them and get my pages done. That was my reading of the book, and it was reinforced by my sister who works with people's brains. Longhand, first thing in the morning. The other benefit for me is that by doing the pages, I get more clear on what I want and by doing that, I tend to get it. And do not forget the artist date.
Ah that explains what’s been missing for me from trying to be digital - I get such better creativity and productivity scribbling messily in a crappy notebook!
Writing longhand activates both sides of the brain, the logical left hemisphere and the creative right hemisphere. So your brain is more actively involved in it. But personally for me, the best benefit of analog writing over typing is the lack of distraction that is inherent in every device. Too often, when I write with my iPad (with a keyboard) I open TH-cam or some social media just out of habit. If it’s on computer, there are notifications and email pings that bug you. Plus, writing with a good fountain pen is just sooo satisfying.
I'd definitely recommend the actual Artist's Way book instead of just the workbook! I've gone back and reread it at least once a year for like 15 years now and I always get something new from it!
Loved this video. Tomorrow I will finish my 2nd notebook, having done 115 days of Morning Pages, not having missed a day. I actually write them in bed, only slightly propped up. I hold my book almost vertically, so my handwriting is horrible and I can barely read what I write as I am writing them. But, it gets all the 'gunk' out, , or I come up with ideas or solutions to problems I did not even know that I had. And then I can get on with my day. It's become a non-negotiable thing I want to do every single day, even if I fill a page with 'and bladiblah, don't know what to write, but will continue writing and keeping the pen moving and then I will think of something and....' and then I think of something and carry on. Just keep the pen moving for those three pages, you'll be surprised what comes out.
@@Skatinovaa I keep the journals just to see the stack grow, but don't reread them. The way I write them my handwriting gets so bad I can't even if I wanted to. ;)
@@Skatinovaa I personally neither re-read them nor keep them...I have been doing m.pages for years now (on and off), since i do know that they are medicine in moments of confusion, dissatisfaction and other negative emotions. and now I write them and throw them away immediately after, since their 'physical', material use and service is over the moment you finish them. but the movement of the inner process is active inside you and remains active throughout the day and longer. but read the book as well, it has been an invaluable source of inspiration and change for generations of people and artists
@@Skatinovaa ....p.s. to my previous comment, since I remembered one thing I usually do. I absolutely do not re-read them, but if while I am free-flow writing something like an inspiring idea or maybe a poetic sentence or image comes out in the chaotic flood, I just underline it and at the end of the three pages I can copy it in my diary or journal, or stick it to my wall. underlining lets me find it quickly and copy it without reading and going back to that chaos 🙂
Also writing by hand forces you to keep your brain active and in case you're studying something. It makes the learning process 2x times effective. When I'm coding, of course I do have to use a computer, but in the meantime. I do write the code by hand and it helps me out Back then I used to write short stories, even tho English isn't my first language. I did write those short stories in English, kept my mind focused into what I wanted to say and how I wanted to express what I wanted with the language limitations I did (do) have. Walk around with a notepad and a pen, write something anywhere, anything you've seen. Some artist I do listen when I'm overwhelmed or just want something as ambiance music Lemongrass Ulrich Schnauss re:plus Akira Kosemura Zero7 Blazo Lullatone Nils Frahm Jon Hopkins Steve Jablowsky aka sims 3 ost Bill Evans
@@leighanncreates it truly does. Forces the coordination between mechanical movement ( the coordination your arm, hand by the brain ) and also the processing data on your brain ( to express what you want
Love it. I used to do morning pages and yes it feels like a chore after sometime, so anytime of the day I wrote something 2-3 pages or sometimes even more. Though I love and dumping my brain on a paper, I couldn't keep up the consistency. So then I started what is generally called "meditation". I simply sit with my eyes closed and spine straight and let my brain talk and I listen. After 30-45 minutes when it is done talking, I say "very well" or "thank you" and then slowly open my eyes. It's almost magical, I love it.
To me, it's a Dream Journal. Quite similar to what you're doing, but I write whatever dreams I had while sleeping first time in the morning. At first, it was hard to recall all of the 'messy' dreams I had. However, I kept doing it daily until I could remember more of my dreams. It does hace a significant impact on me while generating ideas to work on my novel.
@@eallae took me around 2 months to remember all the details (even like smell and taste) from my dreams. It's not that hard, really. Just write it down right after you wake up because that 5-10 seconds is when it's still 'fresh'. About the generating ideas thingy, reading all those crazy weird dreams helps me to get some ideas to avoid writer's block.
My daughter has done this for about 5 years and is highly sensitive to everything so she basically lives another vivid life when she sleeps, even gets lucid regularly but never has full control of the situation. They’re genuinely interesting to hear about! I did the same when I was a teenager and had a “Dreams Dictionery” with a mystical cover that I treasured.
Saw Julia Cameron speak in santa monica CA Bought her book. Did the practice which seemed to bring balance. The pages practice ..inspired me....i prepared a portfolio ...applied to art school and got in. It definitely is an Interesting experience!!🗝
Thanks to your video I tried morning pages. It has been a month and a half and, although some days are rough, I'm enjoying this habit. It's helping me to gain more mental clarity, focus on what's really important, and practice my writing skills 🥰
I don't write morning pages, but I have been doing journaling every other day or so. Once you get into a rhythm, it's really weird to see thoughts you didn't know you had and how you're suddenly able to think straight and find solutions to your issues. I easily write 5-6 pages once I get into it, sometimes they're happy and sometimes I'm literally just complaining lmao. And after almost every entry I feel positive and motivated. I usually start every entry by writing how I've been feeling (mainly because my reason for journaling is depression) and I follow it up with why I've felt like that. After that I may bring up things or situations that made me feel a negative emotion followed by why I think that happened, why I felt what I felt etc. An important part of my journaling for me is my goals. I usually end with reviewing my goals, what has worked and what hasn't, do I need to change something etc. For some reason I find it so much easier to be kinder to myself in my journal than in my head; so far I haven't written a statement that in any way resembles the self-deprecating thoughts I have. I have no idea why, but journaling helps me be kinder and more understanding towards myself.
I am on day 108! and I am either dumping my brain or adding what happened during the day. I have added my habits of the day, what are my emotions in that moment and the things I am grateful for. I have identified many things about my behaviour... which is awesome!
I have been doing morning pages and i never even knew it was called morning pages! I also used as sort of reminder and affirmations I'd set for day, it help me overcome anxiety to a very great extent
@@leighanncreates This is the second day doing the morning pages and curious enough I found the first page harder than the last two, unlike you. Of course I'm just starting but I can tell the benefits of it, are you keeping this habit onward until some point?
@@MrEllinan there might be times when I’m not as good about keeping the habit, but it will definitely be something I continue to do! It’s cool how quickly you can see the benefits
@@leighanncreates That's great, besides a well earned habit is hard to neglect. I don't know if it is related but I used to write a lot in college (not exactly this kind of content but still) so words come fairly easy. Maybe I already knew what was troubling me yet, until written, I did not give the proper atention to it
I've been doing morning writing and drawing for a while. I wake up before everyone and sketch / write my dreams (have always had very vivid dreams my whole life) it helps alot I find.
I've been doing morning pages on and off for many years. I tend to only write one page due to time, but I always find the practice to be calming. Your video certainly touched on the reasons why I keep starting up with the practice. :) Keep up with the videos. You have a good hand with the art.
This video is very helpful and inspiring. I've had Julia's book, on my shelf, for probably 15 years ... you've inspired me to pull it off the shelf and also to give morning pages a try. Thank you! ❤
Unfortunately for me, I did this according to the book. I actually found my own copy during one of my "artist's dates", which was weird because I had borrowed it originally. The hard part was that during the 49 days I had done it (the book is for 7 weeks), something very challenging changed my life. After a few weeks, you have to actually reread your morning pages. This was a disheartening experience since it was a time capsule from before the event occurred. I forced myself to do the full 7 weeks though, and instantly stopped. I couldn't reflect anymore since it made things even worse.
Hi there, sorry to hear about the challenges. I hate to sound like a person with a hammer (shaped like a journal) but there was an episode on the Huberman Lab where he discussed how to use journalling to get through traumatic and challenging events. It seemed pretty solid so I tried it for something I was going through in December. It's pretty good. Still feeling a bit of grief but feeling so much stronger. Almost waiting for the next challenge so I can test it out again :D Sending you hugs through the internet!
Leighann. Everything you create is beautiful. I can’t imagine how much work went into this video, but it turned out flawlessly. I’ve been doing morning pages for a few months as well and they’ve been a game-changer!
I've tried doing morning pages multiple times before but couldn't stick to it. Thinking back I realized that the time I seamlessly finished a draft is when I was doing morning pages. Atm I am facing a creativity block. I think I'll start this habit for good this time. Also, the content, structure and cinematography of this video is beautiful.
Wow! This is probably one of the best videos I've seen on youtube! Your video editing skills are amazing and I loved your message. Definitely inspired to start morning pages! Thank you for your content!
I decided on a whim to start writing first thing in the morning… I haven’t done 3 pages but I may change it up. I love it… I called it journaling but “morning pages” is so much better… I look forward to it every morning. It helps to clear my mind for my fiction writing
I was writing daily one page journal. As I was moving around , there was something was happening everyday. So It kinda great to write about my experience at the end of the day..after doing this for 50 days or so , I kinda didn't like the process. It was not helping me to focus on something. Just that I have made a habit out of it. After listening to you , I liked the ideas of Morning pages. It made me fall in love with the ideas and simplicity. It is kinda of telling me to be a Kid again. An artist again and keeping it forward to the things you wish for. And well a Whole hearted Thank you for making this beautiful video. My tendencies to skip videos are huge. But with this video I told myself to stick with it. And stick with it till the end and yes it's just a powerful feeling and emotion I am getting after the video ends. ❤️
I started reading The Artists Way just the other day and then this video popped up... Crazy. 😅 Did my first morning pages today, will be interesting to see how it changes my daily emotions and creativity.
As someone already commented, the shots, editing and audio are awesome! It's truly a beautiful video. Also, you're so pretty I was stunned. Love the idea of morning pages and it's benefits. Thank you!
I’m glad this showed up in my TH-cam viewing today. Great work. I agree with what you’ve shared and how you shared it. Now to search for a Fleetwood Mac tshirt and Luna moth sticker!
i have benefitted from julia cameron's writings for 20+ yrs. i think you have done a wonderful job of presenting an understandable expression of her important ideas on journaling. thank you for reminding me to get back at it!
My friend introduced The Artists Way to me last year.I have never journaled before and did not think I would like it. Well I was wrong. This is a game changer.I have found so much help in processing my thoughts through writing them down.I have become a better writer and am more creative. We are getting ready to start again in September. We fell off the wagon so to speak and are ready to start again.The thing I struggled with was the weekly self dates.
Hi Leighann. I'm in my 6th week of the Artist's Way program and I know that the one thing I will continue to do after the 12 weeks, is the Morning Pages. For all the reasons you mention, I'm finding them so helpful in my life. I want to say also, that I've watched a ton of videos about the Morning Pages, many of them very good, but yours is the one I keep coming back to. I've watched it several times already. I love how you presented the material, shared your journey with the pages, and listed the benefits of doing them. Thanks so much. Wishing you joyful creativity along your path.
I usually do not comment on TH-cam videos, but I have to say that this video's pacing, B-roll, and craftmanship are off the charts. You spoke extremely eloquently and captivated my attention the whole time. Bravo :) I will be subscribing and look forward to more videos!
Good on you for getting through it Leighann. I too have found morning pages very helpful. I did all the exercises but it took me way longer than the 12 weeks or whatever... It's a ton of work. The Morning Pages sure helps me center up and be more, open maybe? anyhow I just wanted to throw my two cents in for anyone who was thinking about trying it. You don't have to do all the exercises. Even if you just pull out the morning pages for yourself that's really worth the price of the book. The mental fight that ensues to just get it on the page will turn into something good if you stay after it. You turn that got to do into a get to do and then those three pages in the morning becomes your friend.
Okay, so I’ve adopted this method and have modified it a bit. I have particular journals for different subjects or areas of interest like reading or prayer, but I have committed to doing the three page spread when I write in my Journal, “diary”. I find that the first few lines or paragraphs will be light work but committing to the three pages allows me the space and time to ease or coax the heavier worries out of the depths of my heart. Like one moment I’ll be writing about the weather and my awareness in the present moment and as soon as i feel the switch its on to the deeper heavier things yah know? So even if you can’t commit to doing it everyday. I find it beneficial to stick with that three pages. THaaaaaaanks
I'm new to your channel. The algorithm knew I'm trying to better myself so I stumbled upon you. I wanted to say that you're REALLY great at making and editing videos. You're communication is also very clear. This is very helpful thank you. Going to finish the video now! Lol thank you!
Super happy to have found this. I used to do mid-day brain dumps to help clear mental static, and kinda went from pen and paper to recording voice notes instead since it seemed better for expressing and capturing emotions. Really stoked to try doing it in the morning instead now. P.S., Just discovered this channel today and am shocked it's not more popular. Really high quality and fun to watch.
Great place to work on our feelings and leave them till the next day. I have become a better worker and have quit talking about my problems at work. I have been practicing for the last 14 years. Yea!
The concept is great and all, but I want to talk about the quality of your video. My god... Its really beautiful! There are stills in these videos which I can keep as my screensaver... Awesome!
I'm 73. I wish I'd been as smart as you in my teens or twenties. Anyway, very insightful and practical video. I've been journaling for many years... it really helps "herd the cats" in my mind, de-clutter, slow down and focus. Here's a tip you might like after going to bed😅... sometimes, frequently actually, I'll think of something important to do or think about, but these thoughts come after lights are out. These things will sit in my head like rocks until I write them down (because I don't want to forget them)... I sure don't want to turn the light back on and get out of bed... so I keep a notebook and pen on my nightstand... use a notebook with tear out pages... in the dark, I jot down one thought or thing to do... it doesn't matter about staying in the lines or neatness... the whole page is dedicated to that one thing... jot it down, then tear it out of your notebook... this may sound weird, but after you tear it out, just fling it onto your floor wherever it lands on is "okay". Then in the morning you could have one or several sheets of paper to pick up... by this time I've often forgotten what I've written in the wee hours and am surprised when I collect the sheets with my scribble-y notes... oh yeah, that's right... then I review them and digest, putting to-do things on my master list, and expanding on profundities in my Moleskine notebooks (which I've used for years)... and, voila! An undisturbed and good night's sleep and a calm mind.
I usually write weird dreams I had that I then turn into short stories or sketches (in a different notebook). But it's not just for dreams but interesting things I observe in my everyday life or things that inspire me to write, my worries, fears, or like you said, rants. It's usually stories, short ones or ideas and plots for stories or poems. I take my notebook everywhere I go. And I put it next to my pillow so that when I wake up I could write, even if it's just one sentence, and usually one sentence is enough for me to continue to write until I don't wish to write.
I firstly came to know about from Tim Ferris and purchased it and today morning I wrote my morning pages, whatever in my mind I just pen down on paper. Thank you for sharing
Wow, it was really good to hear your thoughts about morning pages. I am just embarking on the journey and they seem a little meaningless and time consuming, if I'm being honest. But your really well thought out and insightful experience as you conveyed it helped me understand how they can be helpful. And beside all that, your hair is totally on point! x
I don't like morning pages, because I don't like to leave my bed first thing in the morning and journal, because I'm usually very cold. But I usually journal every evening(record events that happened) and if I feel like it. Often if I have a problem starting with my to-do list or like my head is too cluttered or I want to vent, I pick up my journal. Outlining the tasks at hand and a time line in my journal makes it easier to starr, because I know what should happen and the mental static is reduced because I wrote it down and don't worry about forgetting
Wow! Really nice video Leighann! The algorithm pushed your video to me probably because I write in "Day One" every morning and I'd heard about Morning Pages on Ali Abdaal's channel. I've been journalling for 2 weeks and find it really does clear my mind but I can't stand my hand writing, so I have to type. This also allows me to add a picture every day. Anyway, I LOVE small channels like yours that are growing with beautiful shots, a clear message and great editing. Love that circle drone shot up front and your voice is very consistent between VO and on camera. Anyway, nice piece of TH-cam film making, so I hit that button!
I'm here from my ALX AICE program where your video was linked, i just had to take a moment to come drop this comment. You just have this calm refreshing aura that pulled me in. I love love love the video, you have a new subscriber. 🥰🥰🥰
Even doing it first thing in the morning, I find my mom is often ruminating through what went on the day before, and it's helpful to work out those worries/ preoccupations first and feel clear for take-off for the day!
I think I bookmarked this idea like a year ago and never jumped on it. But your Insta just told me to watch this video, and you're right, it does sound pretty useful. Going to actually try it this time! Thanks!
Hey! I watched this video 3 months ago. I started writing every morning. Some hangover mornings ofc skipped... However: with the help of other things ofc, I must say, that if I write my morning pages first thing in the morning (whilst my eyes barely open, but doesn't matter) I CAN OBSERVE AND CONTROL MY FEELINGS/THOUGHTS/IDEAS. I can see, what is going on around me, I can see what is going on within me way more clearly. You know that one person who thinks that the world is turning around them... Yeah, you may realise so much more is going on around you too.
I type to myself almost every day for the last two years. I call it a journal or diary for lack of a better term. Although it could very well be a "Morning Pages" except it is sometimes in the evening, or whenever I have the time to write. I don't know if it is a journal in its true sense, as it's quite repetitive at times, more like a daily record-keeping of some kind. Such as "I slept six hours" or I'm drinking coffee" or "preparing to go to work". Then of course in between there are my musings of certain feelings I have, or people I'm dealing with on a daily basis due to my work-situation. Then I let out a cry about some people's behavior, my frustration with them, or occasionally praise someone. Furthermore, oftentimes I write down my wishes, my desires, what I wish for, what I want, what I would like to have, and all what I have missed out on over the years, or botched, never fulfilled desires. But with it my dreams too, and how I seem to be unable to tackle my to-do-list, which is ongoing for the last 35 years(!) sadly, for the reasons of procrastination. You might say that my head is in the clouds. But I became addicted to this type of writing. I rarely go back to re-read it, mainly because I don't have the time, or because I'm more inclined to I'm more inclined type again, and again. How would this help me in the long run? I think it will help me if one day I won't have nothing better to do, but read my entries, and remember many seemingly useless details which might put a smile on my face, some things otherwise I would have forgotten about by then.
This seems pretty cool and helpful and I might try it out in the near future, but I am slightly inhiberated at the moment and can't get over how massive your cat is. That is one chunky boi. Regardless, I will revisit this video in the future and attempt these morning pages. Best wishes to you and your cat.
I read the book and did the exercise for about 6 months, made some changes for me for sure. Not sure why I stopped. Thanks for the video. I'm going to start again.
This is great but as someone who has done morning pages for a very long time, one of the core tenants is that they are full-sized pages, regular rule (not college). All your videos show a small journal, which isn’t what she suggests. Full sized, regular old cheap notebook is the best. it’s really important. Smaller pages stimulate smaller thoughts. And she is adamant that it’s long hand. Not typed. That said, keep going! It’s a “writing meditation”. Just keep moving through the resistance. the payoffs are worth it!!!
3 pages is too much. I have issues with starting and forming a habit (continuing). I like Nail Gaiman's advice to making writing a habit: write ONE SENTENCE per day at the same scheduled time everyday. If you want to write more, you can, but if all you manage to do is 1 sentence, it's fine. You are done.
Different kind of writing, different objective. He's talking about one sentence of creative writing (great advice, BTW, and I like Gaiman). This is not that. This is more like a deep cleaning of your head. If you stop at one page you might not get into the corners and there can be real treasure there. That's why you have to go a little past the resistance. Sometimes the urge to stop is actually part of your brain trying to avoid acknowledging and addressing something. The morning pages are there to help you get past that first guardian, so you can see what you've been hiding from yourself. That's where their real power lies.
i think the point of three pages is the physical amount, less so the actual number of words. you could try starting with a pocket sketchbook/notebook if you want to start with a smaller goal?
You find three pages tough because you're trying to write out ideas that are coherent. Just write any damn thing in/on your mind. I swear you would be flowing like the stream that never dries. You can and would write more than three pages and would only stop because you have to do other things or the writing makes your fingers hurt. Try it! You'll be amazed!
You can even write in bullet lists and mind maps for broad ideas. Then when you want to dig deeper on an idea, write full sentences about it to fully explore that idea.
Love the images of you thinking, pondering, as you illustrate the challenges and repeated thoughts and how to think on them. Well done video on "how to" through your experience. Thanks
My wife bought The Artist’s Way for me over 20 years ago. Although I found it helpful, I haven’t looked at it for many years. Your video has made me want to go find it and start again, especially with morning pages. 🙏
I personally don't do morning pages because I'm still half way asleep but I do recommend evening pages because some people like myself feel more comfortable at night to write than in the morning. But everyone is different of course.
in brief: The video explores the concept of "morning pages," a daily writing practice introduced in the book "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron. 1. **Introduction**: Leighann describes the feeling of a cluttered mind and how it can hinder creativity. She introduces the concept of morning pages and her decision to try them for 30 days. 2. **The Basics of Morning Pages**: - They consist of three pages of daily long-hand, stream-of-consciousness writing done first thing in the morning. - They are not a recounting of the previous day but a way to clear the mind for the day ahead. - They help in discovering an inner voice and provide clarity. 3. **Benefits of Morning Pages**: - **Clarity**: Helps in clearing noisy thoughts, making the day less overwhelming. - **Problem Identification & Solving**: Reveals underlying issues and helps in addressing them. - **Stress & Anxiety Reduction**: Writing down anxieties can diminish their impact. - **Ranting Space**: A private space to vent without affecting others. - **Productivity & Decision Making**: Helps in prioritizing tasks and setting goals. - **Self-Discovery**: Assists in understanding personal likes, dislikes, and desires. - **Boosting Creativity**: Helps in overcoming creative blocks and finding new ideas. 4. **Leighann's Experience**: - She found the practice beneficial in removing mental clutter and focusing on creativity. - While not "life-changing" for her, she found them valuable and plans to continue the practice. - She also created a prompt list for those considering trying out morning pages. 5. **Conclusion**: Leighann recommends morning pages for everyone, not just artists, and encourages viewers to give them a try for at least 30 days. Throughout the video, Leighann shares her personal experiences, challenges, and insights gained from the practice, emphasizing the transformative potential of morning pages in enhancing self-awareness, creativity, and overall well-being.
The editing of the video i must say is appreciative. You should make another video on how you manage to edit your videos on a whole another professional manner.
I totally agree! I have been using Apple Notes to do this, but I usually do it at night. After hearing what you said, I wanted to try doing it in the morning.
I didn't know that a diary (morning pages + evening pages) or log book are usefull beside work (as I already did, see next sentence) and as a skill to structure private free time / hobby. So I hope introducing mmorning pages may bring back my creative side again (drawing & do-it-yourself, handicrafts, ball room pair dance) which has been displaced by everyday life as an engineer of computer engineering and father of 3 children. In my work life I practiced some basic kind of daily morning pages in a abbreviated way structured for pre-work focusing the next todos (revisiting unfinished tasks from yesterday to today about ideas what and how to do/try differently, also upcoming thougths for following next tasks, next days or social interaction with personal or people groups and preparation with topics/question or answers for next meeting like daily stand up, weekly, retospective).
Since this habit kicked in me six years back, I have been writing down my thoughts irregularly. It helps me navigate out of many problematic thoughts and focus on the important tasks. Yet, I have struggled to do it regularly because of time and effort
Hi Leighann! Emilie here from Mauritius. I was wondering if you consider doing one or two tutorials on video editing? It was such a pleasure to watch this... I gathered from the comments you were a video editor before... I understand it takes huge amounts of skills to get to your level but nonetheless would appreciate any tips or shortcuts you have to offer. I especially loved the way you inserted text "in" your videos, like behind you, following you... or how to cut seemlessly when having a "converation" with the camera.. so it isnt jarring... that kind of stuff... anyways keep up the good stuff, you have a new suscriber!
I have that book. I tried this routine. I did not have the same results. That much writing uninhibited became a place to be really negative. As soon as I gave room to that kind of thinking it escalated and wound me up to set me on a horrible path for the day. My emotions became all negative. Today, I still have a routine of being with a journal each morning but I limit the run away negativity by sticking to listing things to be grateful for and checklists like to do lists. For me, the way to be optimistic all day is to practice on purpose. I am leaving this comment because it took me awhile before I realized I was getting the opposite results and I want others understand that it is OK if it doesn’t work for them.
Of course different people can have different experiences, but I'm wondering if you were also doing the rest of the program from the book? Because part of the value for me was that doing the Morning Pages exposed the negative patterns in my thinking, which is what allowed me to work through them - i.e., figuring out where the voice of my inner critic stemmed from, and how to respond to him, and so on. Or figuring out what parts of my life / people in my life were making me really unhappy, so I could figure out where I needed to make changes. And so on.
I Had the Same experience and found a similar solution to yours.
You speak of practicing on purpose. Make your morning pages about that. The idea of morning pages is simply an a lot of time to review your feelings, and you are solutions to barriers, to overcome the day.
I switched to a gratitude list instead of journaling, too. It was that moment I looked back at my journal and it was all negative
I really appreciate this comment as I have experienced a similar process and started to question if I was doing it wrong or just not doing it long enough to get the benefits, but your experience was spot and I find it really comforting to be reminded just different things work for different people and it’s not always a one size fits all thing, so thanks for that ❤
did morning pages for 10 years. then i stopped. now i want to go back. totally helped me with my anxiety
why you stop after 10 years?
@@AbuAbdirohman it's probably a bot comment
@@lorenzomizushal3980 what? Is that a thing?? I mean, it looks like a normal comment idk
@@Ana-vq6tp No, it’s probably not, the person who said that is wrong. The person probably just didn’t respond.
I found The Artists Way in the 90’s and started writing in 1998. I’m now on volume 108 (I use a standard journal with 256 pages) and will hit my 25th anniversary soon. It has evolved for me over the years. I have periods of creativity, periods of introspection and periods of mundane daily review. I still enjoy and believe in the process.
Interesting. I destroy mine monthly because I wouldn't want anyone to find them after I'm dead and think they were a journal, because they're honestly insane.
@@helpfulcommenter i destroy my physical journals too 😂 But first i take a photo of them with my phone and then upload them to my drive.
@@oddball_oddityHey , if you don't mind I would like to read that......i know it's personal but I'll share mine too if you are interested?
Is there any way you could share it .........I am a little interested in reading it (if u don't mind)........ A stranger reading ur journal who u r never gonna meet in ur life.... wouldn't affect u at all
I destroy mine too and with 100+ volumes is would be crazy to go through. Part of the Artists Way process is to not re-read them. It’s an exercise to push past the mundane and open up your thinking. I have kept a few that contain significant events like weddings, births, etc. I do find the focus evolves based on where my head is at. For a time I found myself writing prayers for others. At other times I worked through problems. Right now I’m writing a lot of “to do” lists as I moved last year and am getting the basement on the new house finished and there are a lot of balls in the air. Oh, and retiring next year so there is a bit of panic/excitement in my writing too.
I'm one of those people who says this practice changed my life, and I'm leaving this comment in case anyone is on the fence. Specifically, I credit them with the fact that I speak a second language now (which I didn't realize I wanted to learn until my own writing revealed it to me); play an instrument (ditto) and have musician friends I can jam with; identified and consciously overcame my self-image issues so that I was able to approach people, with the result that I am now in a loving, fulfilling relationship (about to reach our 8th anniversary).
I started exactly this way: 30 days, no skipping, in the hopes of setting a new habit. That was nearly 15 years ago. I have filled 61 books to date. The pages clear the clutter out of my head, help me find mental and emotional quiet to start my day, and identify likes and priorities, much as you mention here.
I don't have a therapist (can't afford one) and I 100% believe that the Pages have become my therapist, by revealing myself to me, and often uncovering a deeper wisdom that I can follow, instead of the frenetic fretting and darting of my usual thoughts. I feel like I get to meet myself, have a quiet, deep conversation with myself, every day.
I'm also a proponent of longhand for this practice, even though I'm an extremely fast typist and do everything else with a keyboard. I agree that writing by hand slows you down to the mental equivalent of a walking pace, very conducive to being thoughtful. A secondary benefit is that my handwriting provides visual feedback revealing my my emotional state. Anger makes me write one way; optimism another. When I feel tied up in knots, my handwriting comes out small and cramped; balanced, the writing becomes fluid and generous; angry, and it's big and angular.
Everyone does this a little differently. Here's what I kept from Cameron's guidance: I do write in the mornings, to start the day; I write longhand; I write a set number of pages. My version is that I write four pages of a 8"x6" lined journal. I use a fountain pen, not to be pretentious but because after trying a lot of different implements I found that fountain pens allow me to go fast (ballpoints have too much friction) and that the look of the filled page pleases me (gel pens are too even, compared to fountain pens' rhythm of heavier and thinner ink placement - ink pools a little; and pencil is too faint). It's not always the first thing I do upon rising, but I find it's best to do them before consuming any media or engaging in any significant tasks.
It's not for everyone. I can imagine someone who is not as 'verbal' or language-based wouldn't find the same level of benefit. But for me, I think in words most of the time; and the thoughts and feelings that don't have words, and can therefore go unacknowledged and unaddressed, reveal themselves when I routinely sit down to just write.
Thank you for this
Thank you so much for this comment, it was really helpful.
I tried the morning pages routine a few years ago. I was more like a night owl back then, so I used to write them at night, before going to bed. I remember it was hard to fill those three pages, in the beginning, but after a few weeks of doing it, I sometimes got into a flow in which I couldn't recognize my own thoughts. It's hard to explain, it felt like reading someone else's ideas, someone with a different thinking pattern. Did you ever have this experience?
Thank you for sharing. What benefit you got while doing the morning pages ? Of course you did at night . Just asking . Would like to start
Not sure it it is the same, but I had the feeling that something was going through me and I just wrote it down as a tool. Idk, it was a special experience in my life. But I stopped and I can't get back to it. Maybe it needs some time once again before it will flow.
Once
I have read this book and I tried morning pages and went on date with my self
I start loving alone time most and spending time with people with loud voices and pointless talks makes me irritated and I left the place I don't feel comfortable I started loving my own company but when it comes to write 3 pages I got tired after a month and it's get hard to write and I quite but I know it's a sign from universe that I need to be more disciplined to achieve more so I need to start writing it again.
Thats actually how 'A Course In Miracles' was written! A super fascinating story, they believed Jesus was channeling through them to write it!
I’ve done braindump writing before and found it very therapeutic. You make a good point about not reading what you’ve written. I really like the idea of filling a notebook then burning it. The excess rubbish is no longer taking up space in your brain, nor is it taking up space physically.
That’s interesting. One of the many reasons that I journal is to read them when I’m older and think back on those moments. Be it good or bad or hectic or peaceful.
Dont burn them! Get a rocketbook or another erasable book. fill it, wipe it, start again
Your editing is worthy of a TV production. So professional yet refreshing.
YES!!! First video of hers I'm watching. Outstanding!! Very talented and SO much potential!! Content is outstanding also!
Agree.
One of my teachers in primary school made us do 2 morning pages first thing in class. And at the end we put all the pages together as a background for an exposition poster about… something I don’t remember what. I really liked that I started writing faster, I liked the moment of quiet and rest with which class started rather than all the noisy messiness you usually have at the start of a primary class. Last semester I had a lecturer who let us meditate for 5 minutes halfway through, and that helped a lot in keeping up my attention. It provides energy and a breather :)
Expressive writing is a game changer. Write about your deepest, darkest thoughts. Writers seek to exorcise their thoughts, the process is cathartic, and at the end of the day with the thoughts on the page your mind is freed. Happy writing!
I've been doing morning pages for years.
It really clears the mind.
At times when I've been seriously depressed I don't even get out of bed. I just lay there on my stomach and write. If the depression is really bad I'll most likely fall back to sleep.
Morning pages help immensely. It gets easier and more insightful as time goes on.
It's as crucial as breathing.
I wouldn't be the successful person I am today without this practice.
Can u help me about what I can write in morning pages please
@Fofa Yaseen The idea of morning pages is not to decide on a thing to write about, but to let the jumbled thoughts that are already going through your mind spill out onto the page. It takes time and practice to learn not to deliberately filter or structure those thoughts. I really suggest trying to find the book, The Artist's Way, and try the Morning Pages while working through the rest of the book.
thanks
@@fofayaseen8295 if you don’t know what to write you can write “I don’t know what to write because …” or “I am sitting here writing this in…with…”
@@Boppip thank you
Been doing this for decades, since the book was first published. A few comments. Doing it longhand is important. It has to do with the difference in brain function. You are stimulating the right part of your brain when you do it longhand. Do it in the morning. I keep my MP journal next to my bed with the pen. As soon as I wake up, I grab them and get my pages done. That was my reading of the book, and it was reinforced by my sister who works with people's brains. Longhand, first thing in the morning. The other benefit for me is that by doing the pages, I get more clear on what I want and by doing that, I tend to get it. And do not forget the artist date.
Ah that explains what’s been missing for me from trying to be digital - I get such better creativity and productivity scribbling messily in a crappy notebook!
Writing longhand activates both sides of the brain, the logical left hemisphere and the creative right hemisphere. So your brain is more actively involved in it.
But personally for me, the best benefit of analog writing over typing is the lack of distraction that is inherent in every device.
Too often, when I write with my iPad (with a keyboard) I open TH-cam or some social media just out of habit. If it’s on computer, there are notifications and email pings that bug you.
Plus, writing with a good fountain pen is just sooo satisfying.
I'd definitely recommend the actual Artist's Way book instead of just the workbook! I've gone back and reread it at least once a year for like 15 years now and I always get something new from it!
Loved this video. Tomorrow I will finish my 2nd notebook, having done 115 days of Morning Pages, not having missed a day. I actually write them in bed, only slightly propped up. I hold my book almost vertically, so my handwriting is horrible and I can barely read what I write as I am writing them. But, it gets all the 'gunk' out, , or I come up with ideas or solutions to problems I did not even know that I had. And then I can get on with my day. It's become a non-negotiable thing I want to do every single day, even if I fill a page with 'and bladiblah, don't know what to write, but will continue writing and keeping the pen moving and then I will think of something and....' and then I think of something and carry on. Just keep the pen moving for those three pages, you'll be surprised what comes out.
That's how I used to do them too ... must get back to it!
Do you keep these journals with morning pages or you throw them away? Do you ever re-read them if you keep them?
@@Skatinovaa I keep the journals just to see the stack grow, but don't reread them. The way I write them my handwriting gets so bad I can't even if I wanted to. ;)
@@Skatinovaa I personally neither re-read them nor keep them...I have been doing m.pages for years now (on and off), since i do know that they are medicine in moments of confusion, dissatisfaction and other negative emotions. and now I write them and throw them away immediately after, since their 'physical', material use and service is over the moment you finish them. but the movement of the inner process is active inside you and remains active throughout the day and longer. but read the book as well, it has been an invaluable source of inspiration and change for generations of people and artists
@@Skatinovaa ....p.s. to my previous comment, since I remembered one thing I usually do. I absolutely do not re-read them, but if while I am free-flow writing something like an inspiring idea or maybe a poetic sentence or image comes out in the chaotic flood, I just underline it and at the end of the three pages I can copy it in my diary or journal, or stick it to my wall. underlining lets me find it quickly and copy it without reading and going back to that chaos 🙂
Also writing by hand forces you to keep your brain active and in case you're studying something. It makes the learning process 2x times effective.
When I'm coding, of course I do have to use a computer, but in the meantime. I do write the code by hand and it helps me out
Back then I used to write short stories, even tho English isn't my first language. I did write those short stories in English, kept my mind focused into what I wanted to say and how I wanted to express what I wanted with the language limitations I did (do) have. Walk around with a notepad and a pen, write something anywhere, anything you've seen.
Some artist I do listen when I'm overwhelmed or just want something as ambiance music
Lemongrass
Ulrich Schnauss
re:plus
Akira Kosemura
Zero7
Blazo
Lullatone
Nils Frahm
Jon Hopkins
Steve Jablowsky aka sims 3 ost
Bill Evans
Great points! Thanks for sharing! Seems as though something about being active with your hand also helps the brain with processing
@@leighanncreates it truly does. Forces the coordination between mechanical movement ( the coordination your arm, hand by the brain ) and also the processing data on your brain ( to express what you want
thanks
@@فاطمةعلي-س3د9ش You're welcome
Love it. I used to do morning pages and yes it feels like a chore after sometime, so anytime of the day I wrote something 2-3 pages or sometimes even more. Though I love and dumping my brain on a paper, I couldn't keep up the consistency. So then I started what is generally called "meditation". I simply sit with my eyes closed and spine straight and let my brain talk and I listen. After 30-45 minutes when it is done talking, I say "very well" or "thank you" and then slowly open my eyes. It's almost magical, I love it.
To me, it's a Dream Journal. Quite similar to what you're doing, but I write whatever dreams I had while sleeping first time in the morning. At first, it was hard to recall all of the 'messy' dreams I had. However, I kept doing it daily until I could remember more of my dreams. It does hace a significant impact on me while generating ideas to work on my novel.
May I ask how long it took for you to start remembering and generating ideas from this practice ?
@@eallae took me around 2 months to remember all the details (even like smell and taste) from my dreams.
It's not that hard, really. Just write it down right after you wake up because that 5-10 seconds is when it's still 'fresh'.
About the generating ideas thingy, reading all those crazy weird dreams helps me to get some ideas to avoid writer's block.
@@eyescream4767 Thank you for answering !
My daughter has done this for about 5 years and is highly sensitive to everything so she basically lives another vivid life when she sleeps, even gets lucid regularly but never has full control of the situation. They’re genuinely interesting to hear about! I did the same when I was a teenager and had a “Dreams Dictionery” with a mystical cover that I treasured.
The cinematography of this video was as good as the content you shared. Splendid! ❤️
you noticed too!!!!!
Saw Julia Cameron speak in santa monica CA
Bought her book. Did the practice which seemed to bring balance. The pages practice ..inspired me....i prepared a portfolio ...applied to art school and got in. It definitely is an Interesting experience!!🗝
Thanks to your video I tried morning pages. It has been a month and a half and, although some days are rough, I'm enjoying this habit. It's helping me to gain more mental clarity, focus on what's really important, and practice my writing skills 🥰
I don't write morning pages, but I have been doing journaling every other day or so. Once you get into a rhythm, it's really weird to see thoughts you didn't know you had and how you're suddenly able to think straight and find solutions to your issues. I easily write 5-6 pages once I get into it, sometimes they're happy and sometimes I'm literally just complaining lmao. And after almost every entry I feel positive and motivated.
I usually start every entry by writing how I've been feeling (mainly because my reason for journaling is depression) and I follow it up with why I've felt like that. After that I may bring up things or situations that made me feel a negative emotion followed by why I think that happened, why I felt what I felt etc.
An important part of my journaling for me is my goals. I usually end with reviewing my goals, what has worked and what hasn't, do I need to change something etc. For some reason I find it so much easier to be kinder to myself in my journal than in my head; so far I haven't written a statement that in any way resembles the self-deprecating thoughts I have. I have no idea why, but journaling helps me be kinder and more understanding towards myself.
I love this idea! Also, this video is perfection. Great shots, fantastic editing, and beautifully mixed audio. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
😁🥰 thanks for you support and encouragement as always!!
This video is so underrated! Keep up the good work, the editing is immaculate btw!
I am on day 108! and I am either dumping my brain or adding what happened during the day. I have added my habits of the day, what are my emotions in that moment and the things I am grateful for. I have identified many things about my behaviour... which is awesome!
The visual production on this video is breathtaking.
The whole video is a work of art. Keep making these and your channel will grow huge.
I have been doing morning pages and i never even knew it was called morning pages! I also used as sort of reminder and affirmations I'd set for day, it help me overcome anxiety to a very great extent
As someone who overthinks anything, relentlesly, this could not be more appropiate. Thanks.
I’m a fellow over-thinker and it has helped so much in that regard!
@@leighanncreates This is the second day doing the morning pages and curious enough I found the first page harder than the last two, unlike you. Of course I'm just starting but I can tell the benefits of it, are you keeping this habit onward until some point?
@@MrEllinan there might be times when I’m not as good about keeping the habit, but it will definitely be something I continue to do! It’s cool how quickly you can see the benefits
@@leighanncreates That's great, besides a well earned habit is hard to neglect.
I don't know if it is related but I used to write a lot in college (not exactly this kind of content but still) so words come fairly easy. Maybe I already knew what was troubling me yet, until written, I did not give the proper atention to it
@@MrEllinan How's progress? I'm yet to start. Over-thinking it. Absolutely no way to get 8x11" paper in my country, for instance :-D
oh my gosh u did a big project. you tube need more people like you. dont give up and go as far as you can. wish you best of luck
I've been doing morning writing and drawing for a while. I wake up before everyone and sketch / write my dreams (have always had very vivid dreams my whole life) it helps alot I find.
I've been doing morning pages on and off for many years. I tend to only write one page due to time, but I always find the practice to be calming. Your video certainly touched on the reasons why I keep starting up with the practice. :) Keep up with the videos. You have a good hand with the art.
This video is very helpful and inspiring. I've had Julia's book, on my shelf, for probably 15 years ... you've inspired me to pull it off the shelf and also to give morning pages a try. Thank you! ❤
Unfortunately for me, I did this according to the book. I actually found my own copy during one of my "artist's dates", which was weird because I had borrowed it originally.
The hard part was that during the 49 days I had done it (the book is for 7 weeks), something very challenging changed my life. After a few weeks, you have to actually reread your morning pages. This was a disheartening experience since it was a time capsule from before the event occurred.
I forced myself to do the full 7 weeks though, and instantly stopped. I couldn't reflect anymore since it made things even worse.
Hi there, sorry to hear about the challenges. I hate to sound like a person with a hammer (shaped like a journal) but there was an episode on the Huberman Lab where he discussed how to use journalling to get through traumatic and challenging events. It seemed pretty solid so I tried it for something I was going through in December.
It's pretty good. Still feeling a bit of grief but feeling so much stronger. Almost waiting for the next challenge so I can test it out again :D
Sending you hugs through the internet!
Your video editing is incredible, also great message. Really enjoyed it
Thank you! I used to work as a video editor so I guess that skill is still coming in handy 😁
@@leighanncreates They look so good can you make a video about it?
@@leighanncreatesgood
Leighann. Everything you create is beautiful. I can’t imagine how much work went into this video, but it turned out flawlessly.
I’ve been doing morning pages for a few months as well and they’ve been a game-changer!
Thank you so much!! 🙏❤️ truly a game-changer habit!
Your effort for this video, editing, script is just WOW
The whole video is a work of art. Keep making these and your channel will grow huge.
I've tried doing morning pages multiple times before but couldn't stick to it. Thinking back I realized that the time I seamlessly finished a draft is when I was doing morning pages. Atm I am facing a creativity block. I think I'll start this habit for good this time.
Also, the content, structure and cinematography of this video is beautiful.
Did u do it today?
Wow! This is probably one of the best videos I've seen on youtube! Your video editing skills are amazing and I loved your message. Definitely inspired to start morning pages! Thank you for your content!
This editing was not just beautiful but thoughtful and so is your banner!🤌🏽💕
Thank you! 🥰
I decided on a whim to start writing first thing in the morning… I haven’t done 3 pages but I may change it up. I love it… I called it journaling but “morning pages” is so much better…
I look forward to it every morning. It helps to clear my mind for my fiction writing
I was writing daily one page journal. As I was moving around , there was something was happening everyday. So It kinda great to write about my experience at the end of the day..after doing this for 50 days or so , I kinda didn't like the process. It was not helping me to focus on something. Just that I have made a habit out of it. After listening to you , I liked the ideas of Morning pages. It made me fall in love with the ideas and simplicity. It is kinda of telling me to be a Kid again. An artist again and keeping it forward to the things you wish for. And well a Whole hearted Thank you for making this beautiful video.
My tendencies to skip videos are huge. But with this video I told myself to stick with it. And stick with it till the end and yes it's just a powerful feeling and emotion I am getting after the video ends. ❤️
I started reading The Artists Way just the other day and then this video popped up... Crazy. 😅 Did my first morning pages today, will be interesting to see how it changes my daily emotions and creativity.
As someone already commented, the shots, editing and audio are awesome! It's truly a beautiful video. Also, you're so pretty I was stunned. Love the idea of morning pages and it's benefits. Thank you!
I’m glad this showed up in my TH-cam viewing today. Great work. I agree with what you’ve shared and how you shared it. Now to search for a Fleetwood Mac tshirt and Luna moth sticker!
i have benefitted from julia cameron's writings for 20+ yrs. i think you have done a wonderful job of presenting an understandable expression of her important ideas on journaling. thank you for reminding me to get back at it!
My friend introduced The Artists Way to me last year.I have never journaled before and did not think I would like it. Well I was wrong. This is a game changer.I have found so much help in processing my thoughts through writing them down.I have become a better writer and am more creative. We are getting ready to start again in September. We fell off the wagon so to speak and are ready to start again.The thing I struggled with was the weekly self dates.
Hi Leighann. I'm in my 6th week of the Artist's Way program and I know that the one thing I will continue to do after the 12 weeks, is the Morning Pages. For all the reasons you mention, I'm finding them so helpful in my life. I want to say also, that I've watched a ton of videos about the Morning Pages, many of them very good, but yours is the one I keep coming back to. I've watched it several times already. I love how you presented the material, shared your journey with the pages, and listed the benefits of doing them. Thanks so much. Wishing you joyful creativity along your path.
Thanks for sharing, Heidi! I love that you’ve found Morning pages helpful as well, and that you enjoyed my video 😊
I feel. I’ve been looking for this exact video for several years now. You’ve helped me. A lot. Thank you. Dearly ❣️
Your video editing is really good! The smoothness of that highlighting at 0:23 was an eye candy
I usually do not comment on TH-cam videos, but I have to say that this video's pacing, B-roll, and craftmanship are off the charts. You spoke extremely eloquently and captivated my attention the whole time. Bravo :) I will be subscribing and look forward to more videos!
Good on you for getting through it Leighann. I too have found morning pages very helpful. I did all the exercises but it took me way longer than the 12 weeks or whatever... It's a ton of work. The Morning Pages sure helps me center up and be more, open maybe? anyhow I just wanted to throw my two cents in for anyone who was thinking about trying it.
You don't have to do all the exercises. Even if you just pull out the morning pages for yourself that's really worth the price of the book. The mental fight that ensues to just get it on the page will turn into something good if you stay after it. You turn that got to do into a get to do and then those three pages in the morning becomes your friend.
Okay, so I’ve adopted this method and have modified it a bit. I have particular journals for different subjects or areas of interest like reading or prayer, but I have committed to doing the three page spread when I write in my Journal, “diary”. I find that the first few lines or paragraphs will be light work but committing to the three pages allows me the space and time to ease or coax the heavier worries out of the depths of my heart. Like one moment I’ll be writing about the weather and my awareness in the present moment and as soon as i feel the switch its on to the deeper heavier things yah know? So even if you can’t commit to doing it everyday. I find it beneficial to stick with that three pages. THaaaaaaanks
I also use masking tape for labeling stuff. Good to know I'm not the only one.
I'm new to your channel. The algorithm knew I'm trying to better myself so I stumbled upon you. I wanted to say that you're REALLY great at making and editing videos. You're communication is also very clear. This is very helpful thank you. Going to finish the video now! Lol thank you!
Quality is more important than quantity.
🙌 👏 🙏 🤝 👍
Super happy to have found this. I used to do mid-day brain dumps to help clear mental static, and kinda went from pen and paper to recording voice notes instead since it seemed better for expressing and capturing emotions. Really stoked to try doing it in the morning instead now.
P.S., Just discovered this channel today and am shocked it's not more popular. Really high quality and fun to watch.
Your storytelling & visuals are so good in this video!❤
Also, gonna try this technique & read the book! Thank you so much!
Great place to work on our feelings and leave them till the next day. I have become a better worker and have quit talking about my problems at work. I have been practicing for the last 14 years. Yea!
The concept is great and all, but I want to talk about the quality of your video. My god... Its really beautiful! There are stills in these videos which I can keep as my screensaver... Awesome!
What a fantastic channel to stumble upon! From one creator to another GREAT WORK!
I've been thinking about doing morning pages and your video has inspired me to start!
I'm 73. I wish I'd been as smart as you in my teens or twenties. Anyway, very insightful and practical video. I've been journaling for many years... it really helps "herd the cats" in my mind, de-clutter, slow down and focus. Here's a tip you might like after going to bed😅... sometimes, frequently actually, I'll think of something important to do or think about, but these thoughts come after lights are out. These things will sit in my head like rocks until I write them down (because I don't want to forget them)... I sure don't want to turn the light back on and get out of bed... so I keep a notebook and pen on my nightstand... use a notebook with tear out pages... in the dark, I jot down one thought or thing to do... it doesn't matter about staying in the lines or neatness... the whole page is dedicated to that one thing... jot it down, then tear it out of your notebook... this may sound weird, but after you tear it out, just fling it onto your floor wherever it lands on is "okay". Then in the morning you could have one or several sheets of paper to pick up... by this time I've often forgotten what I've written in the wee hours and am surprised when I collect the sheets with my scribble-y notes... oh yeah, that's right... then I review them and digest, putting to-do things on my master list, and expanding on profundities in my Moleskine notebooks (which I've used for years)... and, voila! An undisturbed and good night's sleep and a calm mind.
Aside from the good message, the video's quality is also great.😊
I usually write weird dreams I had that I then turn into short stories or sketches (in a different notebook). But it's not just for dreams but interesting things I observe in my everyday life or things that inspire me to write, my worries, fears, or like you said, rants. It's usually stories, short ones or ideas and plots for stories or poems. I take my notebook everywhere I go. And I put it next to my pillow so that when I wake up I could write, even if it's just one sentence, and usually one sentence is enough for me to continue to write until I don't wish to write.
I firstly came to know about from Tim Ferris and purchased it and today morning I wrote my morning pages, whatever in my mind I just pen down on paper.
Thank you for sharing
Wow, it was really good to hear your thoughts about morning pages. I am just embarking on the journey and they seem a little meaningless and time consuming, if I'm being honest. But your really well thought out and insightful experience as you conveyed it helped me understand how they can be helpful. And beside all that, your hair is totally on point! x
I don't like morning pages, because I don't like to leave my bed first thing in the morning and journal, because I'm usually very cold.
But I usually journal every evening(record events that happened) and if I feel like it. Often if I have a problem starting with my to-do list or like my head is too cluttered or I want to vent, I pick up my journal. Outlining the tasks at hand and a time line in my journal makes it easier to starr, because I know what should happen and the mental static is reduced because I wrote it down and don't worry about forgetting
i remember going through that book as a teenager. didn't remember the title, but the cover is instantly recognizable.
Leighann… YOUR CINEMATOGRAPHY in this one!!!!! 😍❤️ Love everything about this video. ❤️
Thank you!! 🥰
Wow! Really nice video Leighann! The algorithm pushed your video to me probably because I write in "Day One" every morning and I'd heard about Morning Pages on Ali Abdaal's channel. I've been journalling for 2 weeks and find it really does clear my mind but I can't stand my hand writing, so I have to type. This also allows me to add a picture every day. Anyway, I LOVE small channels like yours that are growing with beautiful shots, a clear message and great editing. Love that circle drone shot up front and your voice is very consistent between VO and on camera. Anyway, nice piece of TH-cam film making, so I hit that button!
I will have to watch this twice coz that's how much I find it helpful, I totally love it.
Being doing the morning pages for 25 years, without them I don't know where I am
The pilot g2 is a good choice of pen, makes letters look so nice
(Oh, and the morning pages thing is cool too I might try)
I'm here from my ALX AICE program where your video was linked, i just had to take a moment to come drop this comment. You just have this calm refreshing aura that pulled me in. I love love love the video, you have a new subscriber. 🥰🥰🥰
Even doing it first thing in the morning, I find my mom is often ruminating through what went on the day before, and it's helpful to work out those worries/ preoccupations first and feel clear for take-off for the day!
I'm on week 3 right now, I accidentally missed a week, so I'm basically starting over but I find myself looking forward to writing every morning.
I think I bookmarked this idea like a year ago and never jumped on it. But your Insta just told me to watch this video, and you're right, it does sound pretty useful. Going to actually try it this time! Thanks!
How is the production of this video so good? I loved the style. definetly watching more ^^
Hey! I watched this video 3 months ago. I started writing every morning. Some hangover mornings ofc skipped... However: with the help of other things ofc, I must say, that if I write my morning pages first thing in the morning (whilst my eyes barely open, but doesn't matter) I CAN OBSERVE AND CONTROL MY FEELINGS/THOUGHTS/IDEAS. I can see, what is going on around me, I can see what is going on within me way more clearly. You know that one person who thinks that the world is turning around them... Yeah, you may realise so much more is going on around you too.
Your honest opinions in the final thoughts is worth appreciating 👏🏻
I type to myself almost every day for the last two years. I call it a journal or diary for lack of a better term. Although it could very well be a "Morning Pages" except it is sometimes in the evening, or whenever I have the time to write. I don't know if it is a journal in its true sense, as it's quite repetitive at times, more like a daily record-keeping of some kind. Such as "I slept six hours" or I'm drinking coffee" or "preparing to go to work". Then of course in between there are my musings of certain feelings I have, or people I'm dealing with on a daily basis due to my work-situation. Then I let out a cry about some people's behavior, my frustration with them, or occasionally praise someone. Furthermore, oftentimes I write down my wishes, my desires, what I wish for, what I want, what I would like to have, and all what I have missed out on over the years, or botched, never fulfilled desires. But with it my dreams too, and how I seem to be unable to tackle my to-do-list, which is ongoing for the last 35 years(!) sadly, for the reasons of procrastination. You might say that my head is in the clouds. But I became addicted to this type of writing. I rarely go back to re-read it, mainly because I don't have the time, or because I'm more inclined to I'm more inclined type again, and again. How would this help me in the long run? I think it will help me if one day I won't have nothing better to do, but read my entries, and remember many seemingly useless details which might put a smile on my face, some things otherwise I would have forgotten about by then.
I find your content interesting! I decided today to get the benefit of morning page. Thanks a lot.
This seems pretty cool and helpful and I might try it out in the near future, but I am slightly inhiberated at the moment and can't get over how massive your cat is. That is one chunky boi. Regardless, I will revisit this video in the future and attempt these morning pages. Best wishes to you and your cat.
I read the book and did the exercise for about 6 months, made some changes for me for sure. Not sure why I stopped. Thanks for the video. I'm going to start again.
This is great but as someone who has done morning pages for a very long time, one of the core tenants is that they are full-sized pages, regular rule (not college). All your videos show a small journal, which isn’t what she suggests. Full sized, regular old cheap notebook is the best. it’s really important. Smaller pages stimulate smaller thoughts. And she is adamant that it’s long hand. Not typed. That said, keep going! It’s a “writing meditation”. Just keep moving through the resistance. the payoffs are worth it!!!
3 pages is too much. I have issues with starting and forming a habit (continuing). I like Nail Gaiman's advice to making writing a habit: write ONE SENTENCE per day at the same scheduled time everyday. If you want to write more, you can, but if all you manage to do is 1 sentence, it's fine. You are done.
Different kind of writing, different objective. He's talking about one sentence of creative writing (great advice, BTW, and I like Gaiman). This is not that. This is more like a deep cleaning of your head. If you stop at one page you might not get into the corners and there can be real treasure there. That's why you have to go a little past the resistance. Sometimes the urge to stop is actually part of your brain trying to avoid acknowledging and addressing something. The morning pages are there to help you get past that first guardian, so you can see what you've been hiding from yourself. That's where their real power lies.
i think the point of three pages is the physical amount, less so the actual number of words. you could try starting with a pocket sketchbook/notebook if you want to start with a smaller goal?
or alternatively nothing is stopping you from choosing a notebook without lines and simply writing bigger sometimes
You find three pages tough because you're trying to write out ideas that are coherent. Just write any damn thing in/on your mind. I swear you would be flowing like the stream that never dries. You can and would write more than three pages and would only stop because you have to do other things or the writing makes your fingers hurt.
Try it! You'll be amazed!
You can even write in bullet lists and mind maps for broad ideas.
Then when you want to dig deeper on an idea, write full sentences about it to fully explore that idea.
Love the images of you thinking, pondering, as you illustrate the challenges and repeated thoughts and how to think on them. Well done video on "how to" through your experience. Thanks
My wife bought The Artist’s Way for me over 20 years ago. Although I found it helpful, I haven’t looked at it for many years. Your video has made me want to go find it and start again, especially with morning pages. 🙏
I personally don't do morning pages because I'm still half way asleep but I do recommend evening pages because some people like myself feel more comfortable at night to write than in the morning. But everyone is different of course.
Top notch editing, great message will try writing em.
The places are great. I don't have explicit morning writing but do write every single day. Really a great thing.
Loved the way you presented this! I feel even more inspired to implement this practice. 💗🙏🏽😊
in brief:
The video explores the concept of "morning pages," a daily writing practice introduced in the book "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron.
1. **Introduction**: Leighann describes the feeling of a cluttered mind and how it can hinder creativity. She introduces the concept of morning pages and her decision to try them for 30 days.
2. **The Basics of Morning Pages**:
- They consist of three pages of daily long-hand, stream-of-consciousness writing done first thing in the morning.
- They are not a recounting of the previous day but a way to clear the mind for the day ahead.
- They help in discovering an inner voice and provide clarity.
3. **Benefits of Morning Pages**:
- **Clarity**: Helps in clearing noisy thoughts, making the day less overwhelming.
- **Problem Identification & Solving**: Reveals underlying issues and helps in addressing them.
- **Stress & Anxiety Reduction**: Writing down anxieties can diminish their impact.
- **Ranting Space**: A private space to vent without affecting others.
- **Productivity & Decision Making**: Helps in prioritizing tasks and setting goals.
- **Self-Discovery**: Assists in understanding personal likes, dislikes, and desires.
- **Boosting Creativity**: Helps in overcoming creative blocks and finding new ideas.
4. **Leighann's Experience**:
- She found the practice beneficial in removing mental clutter and focusing on creativity.
- While not "life-changing" for her, she found them valuable and plans to continue the practice.
- She also created a prompt list for those considering trying out morning pages.
5. **Conclusion**: Leighann recommends morning pages for everyone, not just artists, and encourages viewers to give them a try for at least 30 days.
Throughout the video, Leighann shares her personal experiences, challenges, and insights gained from the practice, emphasizing the transformative potential of morning pages in enhancing self-awareness, creativity, and overall well-being.
Thankkuuuu ❤
The editing of the video i must say is appreciative. You should make another video on how you manage to edit your videos on a whole another professional manner.
I totally agree! I have been using Apple Notes to do this, but I usually do it at night. After hearing what you said, I wanted to try doing it in the morning.
I didn't know that a diary (morning pages + evening pages) or log book are usefull beside work (as I already did, see next sentence) and as a skill to structure private free time / hobby. So I hope introducing mmorning pages may bring back my creative side again (drawing & do-it-yourself, handicrafts, ball room pair dance) which has been displaced by everyday life as an engineer of computer engineering and father of 3 children.
In my work life I practiced some basic kind of daily morning pages in a abbreviated way structured for pre-work focusing the next todos (revisiting unfinished tasks from yesterday to today about ideas what and how to do/try differently, also upcoming thougths for following next tasks, next days or social interaction with personal or people groups and preparation with topics/question or answers for next meeting like daily stand up, weekly, retospective).
🙌 wishing you success in starting it 😊
That's a really good production.
Such an interesting perspective "morning pages", being an avid journal person this is wonderful ❤
Since this habit kicked in me six years back, I have been writing down my thoughts irregularly. It helps me navigate out of many problematic thoughts and focus on the important tasks. Yet, I have struggled to do it regularly because of time and effort
Hi Leighann! Emilie here from Mauritius. I was wondering if you consider doing one or two tutorials on video editing? It was such a pleasure to watch this... I gathered from the comments you were a video editor before... I understand it takes huge amounts of skills to get to your level but nonetheless would appreciate any tips or shortcuts you have to offer. I especially loved the way you inserted text "in" your videos, like behind you, following you... or how to cut seemlessly when having a "converation" with the camera.. so it isnt jarring... that kind of stuff... anyways keep up the good stuff, you have a new suscriber!