Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration Paperback – August 11, 2015

I ordered 2 of these journals for both of my nieces, ages 17 and 14. When I was growing up, I loved journals like this one. I think it's important that teenagers explore their hopes and dreams and innermost thoughts, and it's even better if they put it on paper. Now that I'm 30, I have so many journals like this one to look back on. I cringe at some of the comments I wrote in those things, but I also smile and become teary-eyed at others. It's fascinating to look back at some of my dreams and to realize I've accomplished them and to marvel at the unique path my life has taken. I wanted to give both of my nieces a similar experience. I didn't want to buy them something that they'll use for a year or so and toss out when something new and more exciting comes along. I thought that this would make a perfect gift because it's something that hopefully they keep for years and can reflect back on as adults. I've included a note in each journal that says something to that extent and lets them know how proud I am of both of them and that I love them.Now on to the book itself - first off, the artwork is gorgeous. Some of the drawings (they're more like paintings) are absolutely frame-worthy. They appeal to both adult women and teens because they're somewhat whimsical while still giving off a modern feel. The colors are so vivid and bright, they almost jump out at you. The quotes are all very thought-provoking. And the prompt questions really got me thinking myself... so often in life, we forget to explore ourselves, to ask ourselves important questions. We get caught in the rat race, in our everyday hectic schedules and we lose ourselves. Even though I bought this journal for my teenage nieces, it's certainly something that I'd consider purchasing for myself as well. It really does appeal to women of all ages.It would also make a great meditation companion. As a writer, I find writing to be very meditative. It really assists me in my daily breathing exercises and meditation sessions. It helps me to clear my head, to focus on nothing but myself for a few minutes. I usually use a blank notebook, but this journal would be even more helpful.Buy this for all the women in your life who need a little bit of inspiration or encouragement, and then treat yourself to one as well!

THEE best book i have ever bought! Im a nursing student and noticed my anxiety was getting much worse, it was impossible to fall asleep at night as i was constantly thinking about school. This book allows me to unwind and think about the life i currently have. It helped me rediscover the big picture. The quotes in the book really make you rethink your thoughts and your answers. Your ways of thinking about your life will significantly change. I could never buy a coloring book because I have ADD and am impatient with finishing one page. This book gives you a blank canvas to write and draw whatever you want. With your mind relaxed and focused on your thoughts and how you want to interpret your answers its difficult to become impatient. I used a pencil to answer the first question and it was TOO BLAH to me compared to the beautiful quote pictures so i went out and bought some colored pencils. I didnt know i had the creativity in me once i began. The only con i have about this book is that i wish it was thicker. I wish this book would last longer than it will. The writer is coming out with a second in June which i will be purchasing for sure. The paper used in this book feels like drawing paper, not your average reading book. I am one that is picky about the binding, however i was not going to spend double the price for a spiral bind. OVERALL THE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER OPENED. I AM VERY PLEASED! My professor mentioned i needed time to destress and when i showed her this journal she was so intrigued, she purchased one for her daughter the same day. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU MEERA!!

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I thought it might be a bit trite or cheesy, but these prompts have surprising depth. The book eases you into asking tough questions, interspersing narrative-based reflection with mindfulness exercises and goal-oriented analysis. I highly recommend it.The watercolor drawings are really quite nice and many of the questions are derived from the content of the quotations. Some of the quotations are old standbys, others are fresher.This might be helpful - for books like these, I like to copy down the prompts in a separate sketchbook so I can write more and draw larger responses to the prompts. In addition, I can lend out the book to others this way.I bought this book after "How to Be Happy (Or at Least Less Sad)". The two books complement each other well with very little redundancy between the two. Many of their themes are similar. I bought these books in a state of troubled mental health and I think they were very helpful for encouraging mindfulness and supplementing CBT.My only criticism is that I hope the author will publish a large print version of this book. There are people I know who would benefit from this book, but have visual or cognitive issues that mean they need larger print. The small text of this book is fine for my young eyes, but I think it's important to be accessible.