Coaching Tip: Dialog Journaling

Originally Submitted on 6/17/99.

Introduction

A technique that many clients find very useful in sorting out their resentments and unfinished business is dialog journaling.

The Coaching Tip

Dialog journaling is a technique in which one writes both sides of a dialog. Often it is used to create a dialog between the person writing the journal and a person, or even an institution or organization, with whom the writer has an adversarial relationship. The results can be quite amazing.

When instructing a client in the art of dialog journaling, they can be told to write a genuine conversation. Sometimes it is helpful to suggest that they write as though writing a script for a play. First they write for themselves. Then they write a response from the point of view of the adversary. Then back to themselves again, and so on until they feel that they are done.

Somehow, this technique enables people to perceive a viewpoint of the other person in a way that has previously not been possible. Finally, instead of seeing the other as an enemy, they are able to see that they, too, have a point of view. This can enable them to let go of long-held angers and resentments. Then, often, they are able to become fully resolved with the issue, and so move on.

---

About the Submitter

This content may be forwarded in full, with copyright, contact, and creation information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit context. For other uses, permission in writing from CoachVille is required. Questions: email topten@coachville.com

Please use your browser controls to close this page & return to the selection page, or click to return to Top 10 home page.