You will be surprised at how much better you feel if you journal
If you think that journaling is only for the intelligent or creative, let me tell you something:
It is for EVERYONE!
So how does writing journals have anything to do with becoming great?
Journaling is not a guarantee of success. Using it in the right way is what makes a difference.
The following are 7 ways journaling can make your life better. Whether you don't know what to write in a journal or you aren't sure how to begin, I can help.
1. Journaling gives you the opportunity to record your daily insights
According to a recent study, the average person has over 6000 thoughts per day. Some of our everyday experiences might offer wonderful insights, ideas, and lessons we can learn from.
Your journal is a good place to record them. Our character develops as a result of learning from our mistakes. You will be more likely to recall them if you write them down in a journal.
Additionally, journaling can often reveal interesting things about you that you might not normally think about.
2. You can write about what you want
It is human nature to wish for the future; to think about things you want to have or do in the future.
A list can be as long as your arm, could be as small as your finger, could be as long as your leg, or it could be as long as your mind.
Journals are the perfect place to keep track of all these things. Writing down our thoughts has been proven to help us retain them. Therefore, there is a greater possibility of taking action. Wouldn't it be wonderful to experience all those things?
3. You can outline your goals and track your progress
A journal isn't just for describing your days; it's a tool to help you keep track of your life. You can plan your life according to how you want it to be.
You can have a goal planner or a habit tracker separately. Each day, take time to reflect on your achievements.
It reminds you why you are striving toward achieving a specific goal so that you do not forget about it. Putting your goals down on paper means committing to them. This will help ensure that your brain recognizes that this is important for you, and therefore you will notice more opportunities, helping you accomplish your goals.
It is possible to get things done by following a written plan, which helps you break procrastination.
4. Letting out locked up emotions are made easier by journaling
As a result of constant social media notification, we are more distracted than ever by all the journals, planners, and apps that are available to help us. Our thoughts and problems cannot be resolved through this virtual escape.
In times of overwhelming thoughts, we are prone to mindlessly scrolling through social media to numb ourselves. It has evolved into a new method of relaxation.
On the other hand, being on social media does not always lead to relaxation and focus. Distraction is all it provides.
As such, we need to find a medium that can funnel our thoughts into a focused solution. A journal is a good place for throwing all your thoughts or just for brainstorming. By doing so, we are able to simplify our thinking, relax and make better decisions.
I use freewriting in my journal when my heart is overwhelmed by difficult emotions. Additionally, I jot down ways to deal with the problem, what I can do to improve myself in order to prevent it from happening again. In these journaling sessions, I gain a deeper understanding of myself and learn tips for improving my life.
5. The ultimate way to get your thoughts organized
You get your life organized by keeping a journal. In case you're constantly scrambling to remember things, journaling is a serious solution.
Using a journal, you can make plans to improve.
My journal contains reflections on making improvements in my career, relationships, parenting, spirituality, health, and exercise.
Your journal will turn out to be an indispensable companion who agrees with everything you say, who is with you in everything, who gives you feedback, and who guards your secrets.
6. Lessons you can learn from past experience
Don't let what you've gone through shape your identity, instead, embrace it to become who you want to be. Your journal provides a glimpse into your past. Having those memories can make you smile, cry, or learn.
This helps in evaluating your personal growth as well. You'll discover that what upset you years ago no longer has any relevance to your life now or you realize your tears were for nothing. As a result, you realize the importance of spending your time wisely. And learn how to handle your emotions differently.
7. Start writing the things for which you are grateful in your life
Gratitude is an important and powerful emotion.
My life has been transformed by expressing gratitude daily. Thanks to practicing gratitude, I made the discovery that I had more reason to be happy than I had to worry.
I never let my mind stray into negative thoughts that drain the positive energy out of my day, and gratitude makes me reflect on the blessings I have. No matter how difficult the situation, gratitude allows me to see the best in life.
If you want to practice gratitude journaling, you can have a look at the Gratitude Journal I created.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Now that you have been given 7 beneficial reasons to journal, start today. Put your pen to the paper and start writing. Freewriting is an excellent way to start if you are uncertain about what to write.
Write whatever comes to your mind with no regard for spelling or grammar over a certain period of time.
Journal for 10-15 minutes. Write what’s in your mind, even if it sounds nonsense.
Whenever you face writer's block, freewriting is often used as an antidote to the block. No need to worry about grammar, spelling, or how well your writing flows here. Also, go back and take a peek at your writing. Make sure the pen remains in contact with the paper.