In 2014, I wrote my first journey entry. During a one-month backpacking trip across Europe, I opened up an empty journal I had been carrying and put pen to paper. I initially felt a sense of fear, realizing that my thoughts would soon manifest into existence. But I’ve learned that this fear is also why journaling is so crucial. Often times, my thoughts flow through my mind and subconsciously influence my emotions. When I journal, however, my thoughts come to life...I’m forced to actualize what I’m thinking.

As I look back and reread my entries -- written during times I’ve felt on “top of the world” but also during times I’ve been sick of it all -- I’m reminded that my perception of life and each moment is simply a reflection of my state of mind. At any moment, I have the power to shift because I’ve been in a state of happiness and peace before.

I’ve written these short entries for myself - and hopefully they provide some value to you. They intend serve as guardrails that remind me about my experiences and learnings. Hopefully, I will look back and realize I’m a better person because of them.