Keeping a journal helps you create order when your world feels like it’s in chaos. It can be a great pressure releasing valve when we feel overwhelmed or simply have a lot going on internally. When negative or worried thoughts arise, it’s easy to get caught up in their catastrophic stories. Jotting down your thoughts, however, creates space and distance to consider them in a more objective way. Journaling gives you the opportunity to process your emotions in a safe, contained space. Naming the specific emotions you’re experiencing and accepting them reduces their strength.
Seeing your concerns, questions, and emotions in black and white gives you a clearer picture of your needs. Even a simple list of pros and cons can provide deeper insight into your desires — certainly more so than a jumble of thoughts knocking around in your head. We are constantly evolving. Journaling helps us to listen, bear witness to these changes, and simply get to know ourselves a whole lot better. Start by taking several deep breaths, noticing your immediate surroundings, and writing whatever comes to mind. Write whatever thoughts and feelings arise, without censoring yourself. It’s your journal, so you can be as petty, blunt, and honest as you wish.
Journaling has a range of benefits. Just writing a few minutes a day may help you reduce stress, boost your well-being, and better understand your needs. Journaling provides a concrete method for learning who we are and identifying what we need. Ultimately, the wonderful thing is that it’s totally, completely up to you.
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