How to do Dailiness

It can be hard to be inspired by the day-to-day hum drum chores and routines of everyday life. In fact, it can sometimes feel pointless and soul sucking.

So how do we find the gift in the midst of doing the dishes, picking up kids from school, writing out another spreadsheet, or commuting to and from work every day? How do we inspire ourselves all the while actively participating in the mundane?

I’m not going to lie – it’s not easy, and yet there are ways to elevate the monotonous.

For years I resented all the daily chores I found on my plate – day in, day out. Please make it stop!! I couldn’t see it for more than the lack of value I gave it – or rather, the lack of value I gave myself. It became a part of my identity.

It wasn’t until I embraced the act of journaling – early in the morning while drinking my coffee. Taking these 15-20 minutes every day while kids were still sleeping or eating their breakfast has set me up to be more present during the day; even while unloading the dishwasher one more time.

Journaling has offered me a place to speak my voice, to be heard, to air my grievances as well as celebrate my growth and joy. It has helped me unload all that I’d otherwise carry throughout the day and has opened up more space for creativity and presence.

Recently I’ve added a new component to my journaling: a 10 minute written review of the day. Giving time for the dailiness of life has added a new level of gratitude and insight. It has also offered my subconscious an opportunity during the night to work out some things that need attention.

I go to sleep offering myself a question to ponder. This simple act of review and posing a question has offered me more connection to myself and a realization that there is something beautiful that happens every single day. And it sometimes comes from the most unexpected of places.

I invite you to start each day with a pen in hand and a journal on your lap and write – write it all out – unedited and only for your eyes. It starts the day by honouring who you are, and you are worth honouring.