Studies have consistently shown that journaling has positive impacts to mental and even physical health. It evokes mindfulness, helps improve mood and can provide an opportunity for positive self-talk. Journaling can also cultivate a greater sense of meaning as well as aid in processing feelings and emotions. The pros and benefits are well documented but what about the cons?
The Bad: It may become to feel like a chore.
Solution: ‘Write everyday’, they said. ‘Consistency is key’, they said. Chore, chore chore, right? But, it doesn’t have to be! Journal at your own pace and cadence. In addition, don’t feel you are limited to just writing. Doodling, drawing, painting, anything to get that utensil moving. If writing isn’t your thing, you can even do audio recordings. These types of expressions help ease the mind and mitigate overthinking.
The Ugly: It can become a source of negative thoughts and emotions. If you’re anything like me, who, once I get sucked into the black hole of sadness and despair, it’s a slippery slope to the downward spiral into all the negative things.
Solution: Find a way to channel that negative energy to fuel positive creativity and growth. Try to recall a moment when you felt true joy – what was it exactly that brought you that joy, no matter how small. Going out for a stroll with mother nature? Playing some tunes on your favorite musical instrument? Maybe even working on that personal passion project you’ve been wanting to finish? After the rain comes the flower blooms. A single bloom may not seem like a lot but a collective of blooms is a beautiful garden meadow. Remember, even dandelions can grow through cracks in concrete.
When was the last time you journaled? Today? Yesterday? Years ago? Never? I invite you to start your own journaling journey. If you’re stuck on what to write, I have oodles of journal prompts to share with you!
