How I Turned Journaling Into a Daily Practice and Why You Should Try It
We all face challenges, but we often forget the tools we already have to help us through them. I’ve maintained a journaling habit for years now, but it didn’t start off as seamlessly as I’d hoped. As the saying goes, 'consistency is key for results,' and that truth became the guiding principle in my journaling journey.
My relationship with journaling began when I was just 16. After a traumatic experience, I needed a way to process the emotional pain that felt overwhelming at the time. Writing became my outlet. A few years later, I turned back to journaling when painful memories resurfaced. In my 20s, I found myself writing again—this time, through vulnerability and self-reflection. Then, during my pregnancy, while on hospital bed rest with my first born, journaling became my therapy for stress and trauma. During those long hours of isolation, putting my thoughts on paper became a crucial part of my physical and emotional healing.
But here’s what I started to notice: I would only pick up my journal during the tough times. When life got difficult, journaling became my coping mechanism. And, without fail, it worked. I found clarity, release, and peace when I needed it most.
But then, a thought hit me: Why did I only use journaling during my hardest moments? What if I could make it a daily habit, not just a tool for when things got overwhelming? What if I used journaling to navigate not only my struggles but also the everyday wins, lessons learned, and joys of life?
That realisation shifted everything for me. I made a commitment: Journaling wouldn’t just be for the hard times—it would be for every day. It would be a tool for personal growth, a space to process everything, from the smallest frustrations to the biggest breakthroughs.
And let me tell you, the difference has been remarkable. Journaling has become an essential part of my routine. When I skip a few days, I notice it. My emotional well-being suffers. I sleep less soundly, and anxiety starts creeping in.
Journaling isn’t just about recording the challenges you face. It’s about recognising your growth, your gratitude, your blessings, and even your everyday victories. It helps you see your life from a new perspective, one that is grounded in awareness and clarity.
Journaling isn’t just about putting words on paper—it’s about creating a space for personal growth, reflection, and understanding. It’s a tool that serves you through both the highs and the lows. If you’ve been thinking about starting, my advice is simple: Just start. Don’t wait until things get tough. Begin today. Whether you write for five minutes or 30, the key is showing up—and letting the pen flow.
As I’ve learned firsthand, journaling can be a powerful practice for anyone—and it might just be the habit you need to create a life of deeper reflection, growth, and peace.
A few Benefits of Journaling-
May help improve mood, anxiety and fears
Relieves stress
Improves problem solving
Builds self awareness
Enhances creativity
Develops emotional intelligence
Provides mental clarity
Track progress and goals
Gain self- confidence
Improves sleep
Breaking away from a nonstop cycle of obsessive thinking and brooding
Improving the awareness and perception of events
Regulating emotions
Boosting physical health
“If you take care of each moment, you will take care of all time. There is only one time when it is essential to awaken. That time is now.” Jack Kornfield.
Here are some easy prompts to start with:
What was not so great today?
What was great today?
What did I learn today?
What did I acknowledge today?
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