P.S. I found your blog through your sig on the Fountain Pen Network. (Just in case you were curious.)

"I'm a firm believer where letters are concerned that if you wouldn't say it out loud, don't write it down."

Very good, Ray! Agreed. Most of the time. However, I think we should consider the case of writing direct response sales copy.

I would never ever command someone to do something 3-4 times in a row. But the same formula in copywriting is effective to the point of essential.

I may even throw in a do not hesitate in the midsts of much stronger copy, to make it feel more polite and laid back amidst the punchy, "Do it now!" language.

It seems to work.

I asked what they said to people they were talking to on the phone, and none of them used the 'do not hesitate' wording. They mostly said something like, 'Call again if you need any more help.' I'm a firm believer where letters are concerned that if you wouldn't say it out loud, don't write it down.

Ray

It sounds like you're really benefitting from your journalling. Keep it up.

Ray

- Do It Now

- Self-Discipline
The whole 6-part series and other articles recommended within.

Finally this little gem, which while it may not help you, it helped me and could help a lot of people:

- How to Get Up Right Away When Your Alarm Goes Off
And related articles.

"I can read an entry from - say - three years ago, even a brief one, and instantly be back watching the events it describes."

I have less experience than you because I've only just started this month.

However, in rereading my journal which I did for my weekly review, it had a similar effect on me. I can see where this is going to be fantastic and sometimes even sad.

Yet endearing.

I use it for capturing meeting notes, seminar notes, etc., so I have a record in one place I can find in my weekly review. I don't just use it for "profound" things.

This habit alone has helped me breech that perfectionist nonsense and also has standalone merits.