Customer Reviews

What Really Matters to Me (Guided Journals)

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On the very first page, Robyn Conley-Weaver invites the readers of her latest book, What Really Matters to Me, to write in the margins. This is not a book to be read passively. It is, instead, a personal guide to leading a more enjoyable life by honestly identifying the things which really matter and choosing a path which will give those elements priority in our lives.

By using a combination of inspirational stories, quotes, and writing prompts, the author gently leads the reader towards self-discovery. Although the title may invite comparison with Stephen Covey's best-selling First Things First, Conley-Weaver's book does not provide a structured blueprint for planning and organizing your days. Instead, it encourages the reader to use journaling as a tool to give voice to both the dreams and the demons that we may keep hidden to the world, so that we can come to a better understanding of our inner selves and then use that understanding to make choices that bring us greater happiness. Speaking of her own discovery of the power of journaling while she was still a child, Conley-Weaver writes:

"Writing gave life to the thoughts I wasn't allowed to speak. Writing made me feel better. Writing kept me from being completely numb."

and later, as she grew older,

"Writing also helped me lead a simpler life. Through writing down my insights, I could see where I honestly wanted to aim my energies. It helped me settle down and heal so I could evaluate on paper the chaos of my life.

"I found I often made decisions for the wrong reasons. My choices were sometimes grounded in fear, sometimes grounded in routine, sometimes grounded in pleasing others rather than myself. By jotting down stresses and strategies, I was able to choose more positive uses of my time - not only to simplify my life, but also to amplify my blessings."

What Really Matters to Me is divided into five sections: Acknowledging the Chaos, Accepting Responsibility, Writing Through the pain, Choosing a Simpler Life, and Enjoying the Simpler Life. Each section begins with the author intimately sharing her own, often painful experiences, as well as the experiences of some of her students, as they have made their own journeys. Each section ends with a series of writing prompts, followed by several blank pages for the reader to use the prompts to facilitate their odyssey towards self-discovery. The prompts invite the reader to dig deep:

"Start two sentences with "I wish I could stop doing. . ."

"If you woke up tomorrow without the stresses of today, what would you do with your day? List the reasons why you believe you can't make that day today."

"Write about activities you're involved in that you do not care about and are doing just to please someone else."

The blank journaling pages are peppered with inspirational quotes from authors, philosophers, artists and scholars which acknowledge the wisdom of taking power over their own paths. By the end of the book, the reader has created a customized guide to assist them in achieving their goals. The steps defined in their journals will illuminate the path they need to follow to lead a simpler, more satisfying life. As Conley-Weaver writes, in closing her book,

"When you write in a journal, you can't help but simplify your life, because you'll be writing from an honest perspective. You'll become more aware on a regular basis of what really matters to you."

The book is a little heavier on the fill-in-the-blank structure than others of its kind. Once I filled in the blanks, it left me asking "Okay...and then what?" There were no follow-up questions to help you explore any particular revelation any deeper and no 'summary' kind of exercises that tied a series of filled-in blanks together for a bigger picture. It felt like something was still missing.

This is a guided journal with writing prompts to get out all of the really important matters in your life. There is alot of writing space which can be looked as good or bad depending on personal preference. I would have preferred a little less space and more prompts. This journal is simple and easy to get through and at times more than just a book with blank lines running through its spaces.

Once I read this book I quickly ordered several additional copies to give as Christmas gifts. And they'll be presents I'll be excited to give - rather than the typical obligatory generic offerings. In my overly fast-paced, overly shoot-from-the hip decision making world I know I've become too self-absorbed. And it's because I make decisions without conviction, without much thought, and without direction. But up until now I just acknowledged these facts and continued down the same path. This excellent guide gently pulled me toward self-consciousness - introspection. It allowed me to hit the brakes and take a long careful and focused look at myself. I raised the binoculars and saw where I really wanted to be and traced out the path to get there. I go to seminars because I'm forced to by my job. I invaribly yawn. But this 'seminar on paper' is not written by the know-it-all drill sergeant who barks at you to sit back while he drives. This is a a self-navigating journal to discovery that gently and wisely helps you reveal just what the title states. I highly recommend this for anyone who puts or wants to put more emphasis on the quality of life rather that the quantity. What a gift this will make to loved ones!

I found this journal very helpful because it provided insight into how our choices determine our quality of life. The author is very knowledgeable and guides the reader through the analysis of painful circunstances to choices for a more productive life.
Anne Jones

Robyn Conley-Weaver literally 'weaves' emotion and words. She inspires the reader by reminding him of his own power and once he recognizes that it is there within, she shows him how to use it to his best advantage. The stories and exercises in this book are magical. They will release you from whatever dark place you may currently find yourself. I highly recommend this book--even if your world is all rose color glass.

Robyn Conley-Weaver's book reminds me of the time I backpacked through Europe just after college. Sure I enjoyed the sights in Paris, Milan and Amsterdam, but if I were really honest with myself, I'd say the most important things I learned on the trip were about myself.

WHAT REALLY MATTERS TO ME is both compelling and inspiring. A must read for anyone who has ever striven to be a better person--and it's a bargain compared to the price of a Eurail pass.

I came across this book during one of my more cynical periods. There are a zillion books out there on journaling, self-discovery, and self-help. Even Oprah encourages journaling. This one touched my heart and awoke something. Robyn shares some of her journey and offers ways for others to explore theirs. Introductions to sections offer insight and instruction. Prompts offer jumping off places. You have a choice about this journey. This offering will provide a sense of purpose and direction if you choose to allow yourself to stretch.

Robyn Conley-Weaver allows you to do what would have made my librarian from highschool cringe...write in the margins of the book! What a great idea it was to give the reader the freedom to jot down their thoughts and ideas! In today's fast-paced world it is refreshing to read a book about taking time out to focus on the things that are so easily forgotten in our day to day lives. I found What Really Matters To Me to be straight forward, easy to read and even easier to apply in my life which is over flowing with deadlines and to-do lists.

I ordered 2 of these, each from different sellers. This one came in perfect condition. Will buy from them, again.