Journaling - How the heck do I do it?
‘A problem shared, is a problem halved’ True Dat. we all know how much better we feel when we have shared (offloaded) a problem with a friend / colleague / family member. but then how often do you regret your overshare after, with ‘stairway thoughts’?
So here is an alternative to your self perceived oversharing, journaling; oh ok, it’s up there in the world of health fads alongside mindfulness and meditation but there’s a reason everyone is jumping on the bandwagon with all of these, they work!!
Let’s clear out that stressed, anxious and over-full brain, and get you started….
Choose a Journal: Start by selecting a journal that you feel comfortable using. It can be a simple notebook, a fancy journal, or even a digital journaling app. Pick something that suits your preferences and is easy to carry around if you want to journal on the go.
Set a Routine: Establish a regular time and place for your journaling practice. It could be in the morning to reflect on the day ahead or in the evening to process your thoughts and experiences from the day. Consistency will help make journaling a habit.
Find Your Focus: Determine the purpose of your journaling. It could be self-reflection, emotional release, problem-solving, goal setting, or simply recording daily events. Having a clear focus will guide your journaling sessions and make them more meaningful.
Start with Prompts: If you're unsure where to begin, prompts can be helpful. Prompts are questions or statements that inspire your writing. They can be general or specific, such as "What are three things I'm grateful for today?" or "Describe a challenging situation I faced and how I overcame it." Prompts can be found online or in journaling books, or you can come up with your own.
Write Freely: When you start journaling, let your thoughts flow without judgment. Write freely without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or coherence. Don't overthink your words—just express yourself honestly. Remember, it's for your eyes only, so be as open and authentic as you feel comfortable being.
Experiment with Styles: Journaling doesn't have to be limited to writing paragraphs. Feel free to explore different styles like bullet points, lists, poems, sketches, or even incorporating photographs or collages. Find what works best for you and keeps your journaling engaging.
Reflect and Review: Every once in a while, look back on your previous entries. Reflect on your growth, patterns, and insights. You might discover recurring themes, progress toward goals, or areas for self-improvement. This reflection can be a valuable learning experience.
Stay Consistent: Make an effort to journal regularly, even if it's just a few minutes a day. Consistency is key to gaining the benefits of journaling. If you miss a day or two, don't be discouraged; simply get back on track as soon as you can.
Experiment with Prompts and Topics: Keep your journaling sessions interesting by trying different prompts, themes, or topics. Explore different aspects of your life, such as relationships, hobbies, dreams, or personal growth. The variety will keep your journaling practice fresh and inspiring.
Enjoy the Process: Remember that journaling is a personal journey. It's not about perfection or impressing others—it's about self-discovery and reflection. Enjoy the process of journaling and the opportunity it provides to connect with your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations.
By following these steps, you can create an easy and fulfilling journaling practice.
Happy journaling!