One way to process your emotions in a healthy manner is by journaling on the regular basis. Even if you cannot commit to making a journal entry every single day, it’s still a worthwhile practice to get your thoughts out of your head and into the physical universe every so often, and journaling provides a way to do this. If you’re interested in taking the next step, take a look at our tips below.
Set a schedule. Decide how many times you want to write in your journal and set a loose schedule. Whether it’d be once a day or once a week, decide on a time you want to write and try not to skip it. Just think of it like any other commitment you have to yourself!
Date your entry. A journal is a great time capsule. At some point, you’ll want to go back and see what you’ve written in past entries. So, remember to date each entry, and maybe, even consider documenting the time, as well.
Keep it private. A journal is personal and should be a place you feel comfortable expressing yourself honestly and truthfully. Communicate your needs to those in your household to make sure that there’s a general understanding of the private nature of your journal. It’s for your eyes only.
Be reflective. Any journal entry benefits from a moment of reflection before you begin writing. Find a quiet place before starting and focus on your breath for a few minutes. This is a wonderful exercise to clear your head and settle your thoughts. Then, get to work and write!
Enjoy yourself. Writing a journal should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore. Have fun with your writing and take pleasure in it. It can be anything you want it to be: structured or free-form; fiction or non-fiction; simple or complex—just make it your own!
The Enclave at Woodbridge Apartments in Sugar Land, Texas