What I’ve discovered through the process of writing my grimoire is that it’s equally essential to explain why something is omitted from my practice as it is to detail what’s included. This is particularly important to me because I prefer not to leave gaps in my understanding. I’ve already arrived at conclusions about why I’ve chosen one path over another, but unless I thoroughly document those thoughts and the subtle nuances, I may not fully remember the reasoning behind my choice in the future.

@liminalblessings asks “Do you actually need to remember why you initially made those choices in the future? Or does documenting the reasoning stunt you from re-evaluating how you feel about things later.”

I would say so my friend.

When you revisit your past reasoning, you gain insight into your thought process at that specific point in time. This can help you understand why you held certain beliefs or made particular choices. Having a documented record allows you to critically examine your thoughts and decisions. You can assess whether your initial reasons still hold validity or if they need adjustment based on new information or personal growth. Human beings are prone to cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, which makes us seek out information that confirms our existing beliefs. By revisiting your initial reasoning, you can counteract this bias and evaluate your thoughts more objectively. Keeping a record of your past reasoning can show you how far you’ve come in your personal development and intellectual journey.

In essence, documenting your initial reasoning doesn’t necessarily hinder re-evaluation; rather, it provides a valuable resource for informed self-reflection. It’s essential to strike a balance between respecting your past beliefs and remaining open to evolving perspectives. Continually re-evaluating your thoughts, even with a documented history, is a healthy and intellectually enriching practice. It allows you to refine your understanding, adapt to new insights, and maintain a dynamic and open-minded approach to life.