Live: 10 ways to get started journaling
Journaling is a great way to deal with stress and riggers of life. Consistent journal writing can be a outlet for the mind and help with finding and creating balance in your life. Problems can be solved. Dreams discovered. But journal writing isn't easy for some of us, and if you never kept a journal before our may not know where or how to begin to keep one.
Buy a journal that fits your personality: I bought my adorable journal at Target. It is pink with gold polka dots and says " Be Happy. Be Bright. Be You." Pink is my favorite color and the quote on the cover inspires me. Find a book that is distinctly you, it will draw you to write in it. I also make sure I use a pen I love writing with. I love gel pens and enjoy writing with them; I look forward to writing when I use my book and special pen.
Set time aside: Journaling doesn't seem effective or enjoyable when you crunched for time. You need to feel free from time requirements and constraints. Set aside enough time and make that time regular. Daily writing is the most effective but if you can't find that kind of time weekly works as well. Just try and make that time consistent and long enough. Your mind will get into a rhythm and your writing will flow easier.
Find a space: You need a place where you can write without disruption. This can be your bedroom, and office, a nice spot under your favorite tree; wherever you feel at ease to be creative.
Feel comfortable expressing yourself: Doodling, quotes, song lyrics; whatever you decide to draw inspiration or creativity from feel free to put it in your journal. There are no rules. Some days you will write pages other day
Don't be afraid to let out your emotions on paper: Your journal is a judgment free zone. Don't be concerned with what people will think about
Write your hopes and dreams: Daily journal writing doesn't necessarily have to be what we see in movies. You don't have to detail every single event that occurred. You can write what you feel or hope for, it doesn't have to be tied to that day's events.
Make lists: Another technique for a journal entry is write list. The list can be of you things you always wanted to do, your favorite places to visit, or a list of your favorite memories.
Write letters you will never send: We have thoughts we want to express but sometimes can't in the real world. Either we can't say what we want to our boss because we may lose our job or we never got to say god-bye to the loved one that passed away suddenly. In your letters you can write whatever you want without fear of judgment or reprisal.
Review your writings: From time to time it would be helpful to spend sometime reviewing your writings. Going back over old writings can be helpful for your growth. You can see how far you have come or what is a reoccurring theme.
Keep it safe and private: The only way you can be sure that you share your most inner thoughts, is if you feel safe. The only way to keep it safe is to keep it private. Keeping your journal under lock and key is the most helpful. You may even find it helpful to write a preface to you book for any prying eyes; warning them that this is filled will personal and private thoughts and implore on them how they would feel if their most inner private emotions and thoughts were essential stolen.
Journal writing is a rewarding experience that I feel everyone could benefit from. Take these easy starter steps to help start your journey on opening up to yourself in space safe and free from the judgment of the world.
