Journaling
Reference model
Journaling cycle: set an intention, write freely, reflect on the entries, then act on what you learned.
About this model
Journaling is a reflective practice in which you write regularly about a situation, then re-read the entries to find patterns, insights and next steps. In business it supports self-awareness, problem framing and learning from experience.
Originator not stated.
How to read it
- Start at Set Intentions and move clockwise; the cycle repeats as new entries are written.
- Writing comes first without filtering; judgement is saved for the reflection step.
- Recurring themes and strong emotions point to what deserves action.
- Only reflections that become an owned action change anything.
What this does
Helps a manager or team reflect on a situation by writing down thoughts, feelings and experiences, spotting recurring themes, and turning them into a decision and actions.
When to use it
Use it when you need to clarify your own thinking about a complex or emotionally loaded situation, such as team tension, a difficult change or a stalled decision, before acting.
Not when: Do not use it when an immediate decision is needed with no time to reflect, or when the entries would have to be shared with people who are not open to personal reflection.
What happens next
Use mind mapping to lay out the themes you found and how they connect, then test the strongest hypotheses with the people involved.
Golden thread
Builds on ←
- Situation brief
- Stakeholder notes
Feeds into →
- Mind mapping
- Action plan
Use this tool, free
Sign in to open the worksheet. Your work saves as you type, the AI can draft the parts you have not filled in, and you finish with an analysis and a 30/60/90-day action plan.
Drafted with AI and reviewed by Eccellere on 04/11/2026. Guidance, not advice: apply your own judgement.