Have you ever spent a million dollars…in your mind? If you have, then you know how good it makes you feel, that is until you come back to reality. The question then remains, what is holding you back from earning a million real dollars.
Getting to that point could boil down to pure luck, but most likely it will take hard work and determination. A useful tool that can help you answer the question is journaling.
Journaling can help you set clear goals, identify problems and formulate solutions to making your dream a reality.
Create a Wealth Journal
One of the best ways to create this journal is summarized by Napoleon Hill in his book Think and Grow Rich.
- Firstly you need to visualize the monetary figure you want to earn and note it in your journal.
- Make a list of all the factors blocking your achievement of this goal.
- Set a deadline by which you need to have the target sum in hand.
- Note the steps you will take to achieve the financial goal.
- Even if you experience self doubt, begin working towards the end goal.
- Write in first person and in present tense, create a purpose statement from the previous points. This will make the purpose concrete in your mind.
- The final and most crucial point is to read this statement to yourself every morning and just before you go to bed.
Updating Your Wealth Journal
When you read your statement daily it will begin to change the way you think and act. You will begin to see solutions to problems and you can now note your progress.
You can include the following points as part of the updating process:
- List the problems you faced and the exact steps you took to overcome them.
- If there was a source that provided you with the solution, write this down for future reference.
- When faced with difficult situations write how you felt and how the emotions affected or helped you etc.
This process helps to build your self awareness and increase your confidence. It also maps problem solving abilities and successes.
Once your confidence increases, you will find that it becomes easier to develop solutions to other problems. More importantly, the journal acts as a motivator that will keep you focused on reaching your target sum.
Journaling Basics
If you are new to journaling you can read about effective journaling tips on how to get started.
The key to building your wealth is take action and journal consistently. Following the steps will build your self-belief and determination. Don’t give up when things get tough, keep writing out your thoughts and feelings and note how you solved problems. Sooner or later you will succeed; it’s just a matter of time.
Sources:
- Hill, Napoleon. Think and Grow Rich. NY: Fawcett Books, 1975
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