Why Should You Journal?

Over the years I have found great strength and resolution in the practice of journaling. It’s my time to talk to God, to be thankful, and to focus on what I want to accomplish.

I decided to write this post when I realized I’d gotten away from journaling. That it had been weeks, months now that I think about it, since I’d last been in the routine. And I can tell.

In today’s busy life we all struggle to find any quiet time. At least I do. Journaling, even for 5 minutes, gives that time where we can be alone with our thoughts.

I’m old fashioned and like pen and paper. I keep a special notebook that helps to inspire me to write in it; I love beautiful things when it comes to office supplies. But more than the accessories that come with journaling is the feeling it evokes.

My method of journaling might not be what works for you but I’m going to share my process, and then 5 reasons why I want to get back in my routine.

When I start writing sometimes, I could go for hours, so I do set myself a time limit of 15 minutes. This time is blocked into my morning schedule.

I start by writing a note to God. I’m not a churchgoer for reasons I doubt I’ll ever blog about but I am a Christian, and I stay connected to God in my own way. Of which this is one.

I thank Him for all he’s blessed me with, and I ask him for help. I used to feel guilty asking for things when I didn’t deem myself worthy, but then I realized that’s kind of the whole point. Having the relationship where you can celebrate together, cry together, and work through problems together.

I then write down all the things I’m thankful for. Many of these are the same each day. I’m thankful for my family, my friends, and everything I have. Even though life isn’t all rainbows and unicorns, I do realize how awesome my life is. I couldn’t ask for more.

I end with my affirmations. Years ago when I was going through my divorce, I listened to a lot of Louisa Hay and Wayne Dyer. It made me realize how important telling yourself positive things are and how to manifest that positivity into your future desires.

The mind is so strong, and it can impact your mood and what happens to you depending on your thoughts whether positive or negative.

Framing what I am working in such a way that I’ve already accomplished it works. I know you might think it’s hooky if it’s not your thing but trust me when I tell you it works.

I also listened to a Marie Forleo video last week that talked about the power of the phrases “I can’t” versus “I don’t”. That “I can’t” gives a connotation of deprivation which makes you feel depressed and usually makes you want it more (like when I say I can’t have nachos makes me want 5 plates of them). But “I don’t” is a conscious choice. It gives you power because you are making a choice not to do something.

I know it might seem silly, but I’ve tried it the last few days, and it works. Anything that will help keep my mind in a positive place is something I’m going to do.

If my reasons and methods of method of journaling aren’t enough to convince you then let me list a few other reasons why I believe in the positive benefits of journaling.

1. Time between you and yourself.

2. Active thinking about what you are grateful for and what you want in life.

3. Time to focus on your goals.

4. Time to recenter yourself if you’re feeling out of control.

5. A chance to practice gratitude.

6. A chance to get our your frustrations and move on with a clear head.

7. You can work through problems.

8. To create future plans.

9. To commit to something.

10. To note things that you can look back on.

11. Can help you track patterns of behavior (good and/or bad).

You might have only 1 or 10 reasons to journal. Maybe you have 50. Whatever the case if you’ve not tried it go ahead and give it a chance. You have nothing to lose and a lot to possibly gain.

 

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