Journaling Isn’t Soft. It’s Strategic

According to a study published by Harvard Business Review, leaders who took 15 minutes at the end of the day to reflect performed 23% better than those who didn’t. Reflection isn’t a luxury, it’s a strategic practice that sharpens performance, deepens focus, and strengthens leadership capacity.

Journaling is one of the most effective forms of reflection, and yet it's often misunderstood or overlooked. As a Latina, veteran, and entrepreneur, I’ve come to realize that journaling isn’t a soft, feel-good activity. It’s one of the most powerful leadership tools I’ve used to navigate growth, challenges, and legacy-building.
 

At one point, I was running fast, checking boxes, and leading from a place of performance instead of presence. I had goals, but I lacked internal clarity. Somewhere in the momentum, I lost my connection to the very purpose that fueled me. That’s when I turned to journaling, not to escape the chaos, but to reclaim control over my mindset and direction.

From that turning point, I created the Daily Leadership Journal, a tool for women who lead, dream, build, and carry the weight of their vision. It became a daily rhythm that allowed me to lead with clarity and courage.

Why It’s Not Just a Journal - It’s a Strategy

The Daily Leadership Journal is designed to bring structure to your inner world. It’s where intention meets execution.

Here’s how journaling strengthens leadership: 

• Declutters your mind: Writing helps release mental noise and create room for clarity.
• Realigns you with your purpose: Keeps your mission and values top of mind.
• Builds emotional intelligence: Allows you to process challenges without suppressing them.
• Improves decision-making: Journaling sharpens insight and encourages critical thinking.
• Strengthens resilience: You learn from your patterns and reinforce your ability to bounce forward.

Practical ways to Make Journaling Work for You

You don’t need hours or elaborate routines. Just consistency and intention.

1. Start with one meaningful question: What do I need to let go of today to lead more powerfully?
2. Block 5–10 minutes in your morning or evening routine.
3. Use prompts that align with leadership, clarity, and resilience.
4. Review your weekly entries to identify growth patterns and blind spots.
5. Set one leadership intention after each reflection, action reinforces awareness.

In today’s fast-paced business world, clarity is a competitive edge.

The Daily Leadership Journal isn’t about doing more, it’s about thinking better, leading stronger, and building legacy with intention.

Journaling isn’t soft. It’s strategic. And every founder needs it in their toolkit.

More about Shirley

I’m Shirley Baez. I am a 20-year U.S. Army Special Operations Veteran, speaker, author, leadership coach, and real estate investor. After two decades of service, I transitioned into my next mission: empowering women professionals and leaders to grow in their purpose, lead with resilience, and create legacy wealth. I’m the founder of LeadHERship Academy, where I help women step into their next level of power through leadership development, mindset work, and strategic growth. I’m passionate about creating impact through connection, storytelling, and service, and I’m so excited to be in the KNOW community where powerful women gather to uplift, collaborate, and lead.