by Kayleigh Roberts and Christine Harris
The purpose of this article is to show you how to journal effectively. Journaling is a time-old process used by everyone - from cave drawings, Egyptian hieroglyphics to Henry VII’s diaries. The process of keeping a diary or writing alone is therapeutic. A pen gliding across the paper is a cathartic way to record thoughts; re-live how you feel; and re-visit what you were thinking.
Journaling helps to:
slow down
reflect
take in
unwind
savour moments
gain perspective
learn about yourself
practice writing skills
make lists
organize your thoughts
It offers insight into what you enjoy; what works for you; and how you spend your time and energy.
What type of journal interests you? narrative, ideas, jokes, lyrics, dreams, health, gratitude
Where to journal? - Cozy spot, outside, in bed, garden, waiting for appointments, stoop― it could be anywhere, preferably with a cup of tea
When to journal? - Before starting your day/ breakfast, before bed
Why to journal? - Cathartic, to unwind, to remember, provide a measurable objective idea of what now is like, purpose, to meditate, stream of consciousness― Journaling can be fun or informative.
What is your intention? Perhaps you need time to yourself, want to get out of your head, want a private space to mull things over, want to remember your life, want to start a gratitude practice, want to remember your dreams... Think about what you want to get out of this experience.
Steps:
1 – Get a journal- it can be a spiral notebook or anything laying around with blank paper, no need to be fancy.
2– Schedule a time and place where you can write.
3– Be True to Yourself. Try to be honest, gentle, and practice self love. This is for you; you don’t need to impress anyone.
It’s important to be gentle with yourself and practice self care, but you don’t need to hold back when you journal. You can be raw, real, genuine, authentic, and honest. For a challenge you can try to observe your thoughts without judgement.
Take time to sit with yourself and express what you’re feeling. This is for your feelings, not for a museum or to impress your mum. You deserve this time completely for yourself.
