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The Five-Step Guide

If you are someone that tends to thrive on an outline, on directions and instruction, then this guide is for you. This is a great guide to use for exploratory writing, for investigating parts of your identity and wrestling with their significance.

Timeline: One sitting, 10-15 minutes (or however long it takes)

Task: Write about your chosen event or experience following the five-step guide

Step 1: Choose what you want to write about. What are you ruminating on right now? What do you need to process?

Step 2: Close your eyes and take three long, slow breaths. Take inspiration from phrases like “I feel…”, “I desire…”, or “I think…”.

 

Step 3: Start writing immediately and don’t stop. If you find that you run out of energy or ideas, take a moment to recenter yourself and continue to the best of your ability.

 

Step 4: Keep track of the time you’ve spent writing, either by looking at a clock or setting an alarm on your phone.

Step 5: Reread what you’ve written and compose a couple sentences detailing your reaction. Start with phrases such as, “As I read this, I notice…”, “I’m aware of…”, or “I feel…”. Make note of any action items or steps to be taken. 

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