My old journals are full of lies -- I think mostly because I had to maintain the picture I tried to present to the world, even for myself. I was afraid that it would crumble as soon as I wrote down the truth, my real feelings, etc. Words seem to have a lot of power...anyway

Although I tried to become a more open, more honest person (which actually worked, I'm still having problems getting something touchy out at times, and be it only in a personal journal. So, just a few suggestions with hopes that they are helpful and not contributing to any writing-anxiety:

- Have you ever tried the "write then delete" method? Sometimes I just sit down and write whatever is on my mind (rather frantically scribbling, or more likely typing), and when I'm done I delete it again. Knowing that the thing will be gone again once I've written it down helps me to just write it. Very simple, but works for me.

- The Letter Method: for some reason, it's easier for me to write letters addressing somebody (either a real person or a fictional one). It feels more distant, and not as confessional and close to the aorta as writing a journal does. I don't send the letters, of course. The form simply makes it easier for me.

- The Third Person Method: Writing in third person rather than first helps too at times. It's a distance thing, I believe -- and in doubt you can always say 'it's not about me!'. I do the same with short-stories and poetry. It's not about me. It's all for the sake of art. What the muse demanded. Gah.