If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure what to do next in your business, this episode is for you.

I sat down with Anna Woolliscroft, founder of Writing With Purpose and journaling expert, to unpack how self-employed HR consultants can use journaling to:

• Clear their head and think more clearly
• Reduce stress that blocks progress
• And take back control of their business – and their life

Journaling isn’t about keeping a teenage diary. It’s about using a simple, powerful tool to create the headspace you need to make better decisions and build a consultancy you actually enjoy running.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

• How journaling gives you space to think and plan without the noise
• Why even five minutes a day can reset your stress levels and improve focus
• Practical ways to use journaling for business planning and personal growth
• Nick’s own routine and why he swears by pen and paper
• Where to grab Anna’s free PDF journal planner to get started today

This isn’t “one more thing” on your to-do list. It’s a simple way to make business feel easier — and life a whole lot calmer.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Why HR consultants need clarity to grow
Nick on why getting out of your head is the first step to building a £70K consultancy.

01:05 – Meet Anna Woolliscroft
How the Writing With Purpose founder helps people use journaling for clarity and confidence.

02:45 – Journaling vs “dear diary”
Why journaling is a powerful self-awareness and growth tool.

04:30 – Creating space for smarter decisions
How journaling clears your head and supports better business choices.

06:00 – The simplest way to start journaling
Stress-free tips to begin — even if you don’t know what to write.

07:30 – Why pen and paper beats typing
The science behind why writing by hand boosts focus and creativity.

09:10 – Using journaling to manage stress
Nick on how his notebook helps him reset during busy periods.

11:20 – The five-minute habit that changes your day
Quick journaling routines for busy consultants.

13:10 – Directed vs intuitive journaling
The pros and cons of prompts vs free-flow writing.

15:00 – Journaling prompts that unlock clarity
Easy questions to help you think deeper and solve problems faster.

17:00 – Journaling for less stress and better client relationships
Why writing helps you regulate emotions and show up stronger.

19:20 – Spotting patterns that hold you back
Using your journal to find triggers, habits, and opportunities.

22:00 – Morning pages, gratitude, and more
Popular techniques to help you find the routine that works for you.

25:10 – Planning your consultancy’s future
How mapping thoughts makes goals clearer and more achievable.

28:50 – Get Anna’s free journal planner
Download prompts, exercises, and a guided meditation to start today.

Want My Help to Build Your £70K+ HR Consultancy?

1️⃣ Grab a copy of my book – The Complete Guide to Building a £70K HR Consultancy – and discover how to get every lead and client you need.

2️⃣ Apply to Join The Fastlane Formula – so we can work together 1-to-1 to get you earning £70K+ faster (and easier) than going it alone.