Discovery through Journalizing

Remember diaries? Those small 4X6 books (possibly with lock and key) where one recorded the daily or key events and experiences in their lives? Diaries often served many a plot point in a tale or two. Diaries are/were a journal of sorts, and in this digital age, they’ve come a long way. For instance, some folk journalize a personal journey very publicly through social media. It’s safe to say: writing a journal isn’t just for teens and preteens.

There are many benefits associated with maintaining a journal. Performed consistently, journal writing can provide insight into your life. Regular review of the entries shines light on aspects of your life unrealized or unresolved. Looking back, you’ll notice habits you’re fond of—and those you aren’t. In addition, journaling also serves as a tangible way to release/express anger and emotions normally hidden or held inside. To a large extent, journal writing allows one to see themselves differently.

Journaling Basics

To begin, journal writing involves keeping some form of log of your day-to-day life, on a daily basis or even weekly basis. The journal entries document activities of your day, your thoughts and dreams, your emotions regarding your experiences. From composition books to leather-bound notebooks to a word processor, the physical journal takes many forms. However, if you’re naming names and not protecting the innocent? Consider something with a lock/security for safekeeping.

A Road to Self-Discovery

Most importantly, there are benefits of journal writing. For example:

• Seeing and expressing emotions of happiness, love, and personal fulfillment result in peace of mind.
• Peace of mind reinforces a sense of purpose and value.
• Seeing and expressing feelings of anger and depression help relieve anxiety.
• Reviewing journal entries offers opportunity to notice behavior patterns (both positive and negative).

In short, discover yourself through journal writing by creating accounts of all your undertakings. Your written entries equate to downloading your troubles and feelings to a ‘friend,’ with the advantage things won’t leak to … human friends. Consequently, your journal is where you ‘let go.’ Blow off steam about the job, or your relationship(s). Reflect and commemorate the good stuff, too. Analyze and modify negative patterns. In the end, jotting down and reflecting on the events and experiences of your day/week (even the mundane) has many therapeutic benefits.

Journal writing isn’t for everyone, but there’s really only one way to find out if it’s right for you.