I discovered in college (when I first started journaling semi-regularly) that I could gain a deeper understanding of my own positions and biases on different topics by writing about them. Writers will know what I’m talking about.

I noticed a similar phenomenon when discussing issues on the phone with friends of mine. I’d work myself into a frothy lather about a particular topic (typically things like freedom, work that matters, sticking it to the man, etc.) and find myself understanding my own positions much more clearly by discussing them.

In many cases, I’d actually surprise myself with the clarity I had and the coherence with which I spoke when passionately opining.

I’d contrast this with the distinct lack of clarity and direction on the same topics that I felt when considering them in solitude. And as I reflect on some of my old writing on this blog (which is pretty awful), I’m more motivated than ever to continue writing, sharing, and learning.