Journaling: it’s a great way to de-stress and clear your mind, especially with COVID-19. If you haven’t made it a habit already, I’m here to share some of my favorite tips to get you started. Before we dive in, remember that your journal doesn’t have to look aesthetically pleasing like the pictures you sometimes find while scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram. The point is for you to write down your thoughts to be seen by your eyes only, so there’s no need for it to look perfect.
1. A Traditional Paper Journal Isn’t Necessary
If writing in a physical journal isn’t really up your alley, feel free to pull up your notes app or a Word doc instead. Even though I love my paper journal, I’m constantly jotting things down in my notes app when I don’t have my journal handy. If you’re just starting out, you may feel less pressure if you’re typing your thoughts instead of writing them down with pen and paper.
2. Don’t Feel Obligated to Journal at a Set Time
If you’re super busy, you may find it helpful to schedule some time into your day to journal and let your thoughts flow out. Otherwise, just start writing when you have some free time in your day, whether it be while you’re sipping on your morning cup of coffee or when you’re reflecting before you go to bed. Don’t be afraid to bring your journal with you anywhere; you might just be thanking yourself if you have it when you’re on the bus or waiting for an appointment with nothing to do.
3. Write About Anything You Want
There are no limits to journaling! Write about your day, your dreams, your favorite songs or movies, or go into detail about what you’re grateful for. If you have writer’s block, just look up some prompts online to help you get started. You can even draw pictures or staple in photos, receipts, or memories you want to be sure not to forget.
4. Make it Something You Look Forward To
Put on your go-to playlist, grab a cup of tea, or create whatever environment it is that gets you in the mindset to unwind. This will help make you excited to journal each day since the last thing you want is to think of it as another item on your to-do list.
5. You Can Still Make it Pretty
The main objective of keeping a journal is expressing yourself, so if you want to take the time to fill your journal with cute stickers, doodles, or cursive writing, do just that! I love collecting bits and pieces of things from my day to put in my journal, like ticket stubs or brochures if I’m traveling.
Now crack open that journal you’ve had laying around or go order one that’ll make you excited to get writing!