Skillful vs Unskillful

A few weeks ago I started a new practice of journaling just before bed. It’s just a quick five-minute recap of the day, but not as a written-out play-by-play of events. It’s more about looking at situations that came up that day, and thinking through how I handled them. Did I act in a way I’m proud of? Would I do it that way again? Or, with the benefit of hindsight, do I wish I’d acted differently? If I could have a redo, would I want one?

I call it “Skillful” versus “Unskillful” action - actions that lead to happiness and joy; and ones that lead to unhappiness or regret. And then, if I wish I’d done things differently, I write “Course Correction” and jot down what I wish I’d done instead. What would have led to more peace?

So for example, one day last week I had a lot of work to do. And I plowed through it hour by hour, working in a continuous flow state. I love diving deep into work like that, so I didn’t think much of it. But when I finally got up, my bones ached and my eyes were bloodshot and tired. I wish I’d gotten up a couple of times for a tea break, or taken a short walk, or even just did a handful of sun salutations to get things circulating.

I put that down under “Unskillful Action,” and wrote a “Course Correction”.

As for “Skillful Action” that same day, I went grocery shopping early in the morning before opening my computer or checking my phone. That way, I wasn’t distracted or delayed, and the whole shopping experience felt really spacious. I could take my time in the nearly vacant store and admire all the colorful produce on display. I felt very thankful for all the farmers and workers who’d had a hand in offering such beautiful food. And I was thankful to the employees of the grocery store for being there so early, and for being friendly to me.

It’s as simple as that. Each evening, recording both Skillful and Unskillful actions. And if I can’t think of anything Skillful, I still write that at least I breathed skillfully and kept myself alive. And if I can’t think of anything Unskillful - yay! That means I was probably maintaining pretty good awareness that day. 

I’ve only been doing this daily for a few weeks now, but it’s already had a profound effect. I feel accountable to myself because I write things down instead of just making the same blunders repeatedly. And I’ve noticed myself course-correcting in real time, in order to avoid having to write about my unskillful response to a situation. Also, it just feels good to write about things I did skillfully. I can see how my actions directly affect my happiness levels throughout the day, and I’m encouraged to build on that.

That’s why I wanted to share this practice here — I hope it can help you, if you’re open to it, and I feel like it’s an action *I* can reflect positively on, later! If you do choose to try this, I’d love to hear your experience with it. Leave me a comment or send an email.

Just one last little tip - keep your journal in plain sight by your bedside, so you can’t miss it when you get ready for bed. That way you don’t forget your intention. Ooh, so skillful!