Who can benefit from journal writing? Anyone can! If you think journal writing is only for certain “types” of people—women, natural writers, teenagers—think again. Many top performers, men and women of all ages and from all walks of life, keep a journal. They recognize the power of journal writing to benefit their lives and well-being.
Here are some ways journal writing can support your mental health, growth, and success.
Journaling for Mental Health
If you’re constantly feeling anxious or preoccupied, this can interfere with your sleep and take a toll on your mental health. Journaling allows you to get those thoughts and worries out of your head and down on paper. This “unloading” process prevents you from getting trapped in an unhealthy mental loop, where you keep going over things in your head with no real change or resolution.
Writing things down in a journal also allows you to view things objectively and with greater clarity. This is especially helpful when you’re trying to make sense out of thoughts that seem confused, cloudy, or jumbled.
Journaling for Growth
Your journal is a private space where there are no restrictions, no constraints, and you answer to no-one. As such, you’re free to explore whatever you like and brainstorm ideas, with no fear of judgement. As you do this, give your inner voice free rein to express itself. Over time, you’ll likely notice patterns, themes, and common elements emerging, paving the way for you to grow and develop as a person.
Your journal also provides a space to reflect on different events and interactions in your life, drawing insights and growing in your own self-awareness. Rather than looking at things from a fixed viewpoint, you can reframe issues by coming at them from different angles and perspectives.
Journaling for Success
Journaling can be a powerful tool in supporting your success, as it allows you to take a closer look at all those dreams and ideas you’re holding inside. It provides a space where you can explore your vision of who you want to be and where you want to get to.
When life gets busy and we’re surrounded by deadlines and demands, it’s easy to start running on automatic. Journal writing is your time to slow down and really think about who you are, what you’re doing, why you’re doing it, and how it all ties in with your long term goals. You can also take time to explore any obstacles or distractions in your life that you feel are impeding your success.
If you’re new to journaling, start anywhere that feels comfortable to you. Simply set aside some time, pick up your pen, and start writing. You may be surprised by what you experience as you start capturing your innermost thoughts on paper.
Author: Susan Knight
Susan Knight is a freelance writer who writes on many topics, but specializes in covering all things related to health and wellness. She loves to see people get the information and tools they need to make changes and live healthier, happier lives. Susan is also a certified holistic nutrition and wellness coach and frequently draws on that background in her health writing. Learn more about her freelance services at www.skfreelance.com.