Journaling - It’s Essential!
Has anyone ever recommended the concept of journaling to you? If they have, they know what’s up! Journaling not only helps with channeling your feelings and emotions, but it also is a way to relieve stress and anxiety. Not to mention, it’s a fun and easy way to express yourself, while brainstorming any thoughts, ideas or emotions you might have.
Now I’m sure that you’ve searched the word ‘journaling’ on Pinterest. In fact, I’m certain you have and I bet you saw a bunch of pins full of beautiful handwriting with cute and precise doodles and colorful sketches. Guys, this is not realistic! I am not discrediting those who have fantastic art skills, but I am telling you that there is no such thing as ‘perfect’ journaling. There is no right or wrong. Your journal is for YOU, no one else, and you have the power to make it everything you want it to be.
For years I would buy the prettiest journals with the best intention of journaling in them someday. I can tell you that no matter how pretty the journal was, I never had the motivation or desire to write a single word. You wanna know why? I thought my handwriting wasn’t good enough. I thought that maybe one day, I would miraculously have the handwriting of an exquisite painter or sculptor. Only then, I would start journaling. How realistic is this? With this mindset, it was inevitable that I would fail at this practice, simply because I was afraid to start.
It wasn’t until COVID-19 (plus a tough breakup!) that I realized the importance of journaling. The power of writing down an emotion eliminates the climax of the emotion itself, therefore, giving you a small sense of relief from that feeling. With all the pain and grief happening in the world right now, relief is something we all can use, no matter what adversity has come our way.
Imagine this. How many arguments could have been avoided if we decided to journal our thoughts and feelings instead? Don’t get me wrong, if your significant other, friend or family member is treating you poorly, of course, there needs to be communication. However, if your spouse forgot to throw out the trash or if your mom accidentally shrunk your jeans in the dryer, (we’ve all been there and done that) your initial instinct is to lash out, get upset or even make a sarcastic remark. Yes, even the smallest things can trigger the feelings.
If we channel our feelings, especially those of anger, through the means of journaling, there’s a greater chance at avoiding hurtful words and gestures that cannot be undone. Of course, this is just an example and there are no guarantees that this practice will work for everyone. Some people meditate, walk in nature or swing at a punching bag to channel their anger or negative emotions. The channel is entirely up to you as long as it doesn’t involve hurting others or yourself. Journaling has been known to be safe and efficient practice of expression and it costs nearly nothing. Here’s a link to journals under $5 on Amazon.
If this conflicts with your current budget or you are unable to access a journal, then a piece of paper and pencil works perfectly! The point is to write down what you are feeling and why. It will produce the same result.
Good luck to you all and happy journaling!
