More often than not, life is overwhelming. There’s so much that goes on day-to-day, it can be easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle. Finding moments of peace, processing, and introspection can be a challenge.
That’s why journaling can be a godsend. Journaling is a great way to take a moment to filter through your thoughts and experiences. It can improve your mood, cultivate self awareness, and improve your memory. It also gives you an invaluable record of your progress in healing and self improvement.
If getting started feels overwhelming or vague, here are a few tricks to ease you into the habit of journaling.
Find Your Routine
Journaling does not have to be overly time consuming. Even just 15-20 minutes can be enough to make a difference. But you will need somewhere quiet and calm to truly dive into reflection.
Make sure the time of day is conducive for focused thought. Journaling in the morning can be a great way to prepare for the day ahead of you. Journaling in the evening can help you process all that you experienced. As well as plan ahead for the next day. Either way, journaling can help you become proactive about your life, rather than reactive.
Find a space where you won’t be interrupted. Light a candle or make yourself a cup of coffee. Put away your phone, turn off the TV, and let yourself think deeply. Communicate to family members that you need to be left alone. This way, you will not be pressured to rush through your journaling process.
Find Your Topic
Sometimes, a blank page can be your worst enemy. You can journal about anything you want. But that can be too broad to tackle right away. If you’re particularly anxious about something, you can start by writing about your concerns. Or you can practice gratitude by listing the things that bring you joy.
Oftentimes, it’s just a matter of picking a subject. You can always write more. You can start with what’s in front of you and describe your surroundings. Or list some goals you’d like to achieve and the steps you want to take. Write a letter to a past or future version of yourself. Think of a recent memory you’d like to hold on to.
If you’re really lost, you can always buy a journal with prompts included. This can help you build the routine without feeling like you’re completely on your own.
Find Your Voice
Your journal is about you. No one is ever going to read it, unless you want them to. Expressing yourself can be done in an infinite number of forms.
Even the medium can be changed. Do you enjoy drawing? Photography? Collaging? Artistic visual mediums can work just as well as writing. Explore how you communicate best and let your creativity flow freely.
We can all be our own worst critic, so don’t police your journaling too much. It doesn’t have to be perfect, pretty, or even make sense. Just get it all out on the page. You’ll be surprised how much better you’ll feel after.
Whatever purpose you have for journaling, hopefully these tips will help you get started. If you’re looking for other ways to deal with issues like anxiety or depression, we offer therapy at Compassionate Solutions. Find more information on their website.
