Why I Journal
Writing things down helps me to arrive at what I think. For me, there's a specific alchemy that happens when I put pen to paper - whether it's making a list or writing whatever comes to mind without any censorship.
What Is Journalling?
Journalling can be as simple as writing down events and occurences - what’s happened and happening. It can also be a record of experiences, ideas and reflections. Or thoughts and feelings and musings. It can become a tool for self reflection and to increase self awareness. But, in essence, it’s simply writing stuff down.
Why Is Journalling Helpful?
Self Awareness - Writing down my thoughts and feelings helps get out of my head and anchors me back down. It helps to bring me back to me.
Getting Clarity - Putting thoughts into words untangles my thoughts. It gives me a space where I can work out what it is that I actually think and need. When things are too personal to talk over with someone else, I write in my journal.
Intentional Living - It centres and grounds me. Through writing freely, without judgemement, I can explore what’s working, what’s not and above all what to do about it. It helps me make healthy choices.
Free Therapy - Journalling is also known as writing therapy. It’s not about having great ideas or being productive (although sometimes it can be that). It’s messy, it’s definitely not for publication and it’s absolutely for my eyes only. It allows me to express myself freely, without thinking about others.
Unburdening - Writing down anything and everything that is weighing me down brings relief. My journal doesn’t judge, blame or complain about me! It accepts me as I am. It helps me find my own solutions. I generally feel lighter, stronger, more grounded and happier after journalling.
Celebration - I don’t save it only for the difficult times. Documenting the good times gives me the chance to live them over and over. It keeps wonderful memories alive and full of detail.
Creativity - I also use writing as a brainstorming tool - to explore ideas, themes, plans.
If journalling isn’t currently in your self care tool kit, I encourage you to give it a try. It doesn’t matter what you write - just start. I promise you’ll feel a positive difference.