The concept of journaling to some people is a daunting task. It feels like a chore or something you don’t have time to do. Some people process their emotions differently. One person may be able to think clearer if they go for a run. Maybe another person has nothing in particular to write about such as what they did that day and how they saw a bunny, nothing really profound. Others may use journaling as a coping mechanism. A therapy if you will – guided all by you! For those who have journaled they may feel better afterwards. How long do you journal for? Do you journal everyday as a way to check in or do you journal when something major in your life happens that you want to work through?
Journaling is an essential tool in wellness. Your perceived thoughts when floating around your mind may be difficult to grasp, but when you write them down you open yourself up, you become honest and vulnerable to the point that you can freely express what’s deep within you. Sometimes you may have layers of emotions and are unable to see what’s bothering you on the surface. This is where the power of journaling comes into play. Start with making it a focus to write every single day. Even if you have nothing to say. Give yourself the opportunity to let the words flow on the page. Be open. If nothing comes up then at least check in about your day – if it’s positive then write what you are grateful for. Whatever it is just write. When you get into the flow of opening up you may be surprised what comes to the surface.
If you don’t know where to start you have a few of options. You can begin with some journal prompts which you can find throughout this guide or you can do a free-writing session where you set a timer for at least 10 minutes and just see what comes up. Another method is the morning pages where you write for 20 minutes first thing in the morning before you do anything – this is a good technique to vent and let it all out before you start your day. This is particularly useful if you have been ruminating on a topic and just need to get it all out. The mornings are when your subconscious is still in its natural state and you can be more open with yourself.
Use journaling to vent. Be open to yourself. Let it all out. Resolve deep seated issues and move forward with your life. Make it a habit. Make it a ritual. If anything, just allow yourself to think clearly instead of mixing your thoughts in a loop on repeat.