A question that always gets asked when I pull out my Journal for self-reflection time is; What do I get out of journaling?
For context, I was given a journal at a very early age. When I was 9 years old, my eldest sister was tragically killed in a motor vehicle accident. She was like my 2nd mother and the one who I emulated the most, down to her mannerisms. When she passed away, I became anorexic and had to be hospitalized for an eating disorder. I will never forget my mother asking my doctor if there was a cure for this type of grief/loneliness.
I wish I could tell you I got over my sister's death and began eating, but honestly, that didn't happen for some time. Because of my unchecked grief and loneliness as a teen, I gravitated toward darkness and obscurity. I was acting out in not-so-healthy ways. My cousin saw what I was doing and suggested I start keeping a journal. I thought she was being ridiculous even at that young age.
I soon found that in a house of 3 lively and vibrant siblings, who were constantly competing for my parent's attention and affection, my voice was better utilized when I did journal. I was able to say how I truly felt uninterrupted. I was able to ask myself questions my parents maybe weren't ready to hear me ask or want to answer. Journaling has helped me clarify so many different stages in my life. From grief to young love to being a real friend.
I have never stopped journaling, though, in all honesty, I have my up and down moments. ( I guess we could consider this blog a form of journaling.) So back to the question. Why journaling? You now have an idea of why I do it.
GTG-Benefits of journaling
There are also reasons for you to do it as well. If you are a writer or an artist, it can help you stay grounded and help keep you in perspective. You can feel more confident with knowing who you are as a person. Journaling can also help you pinpoint any problems, fears, or concerns.
You can have a journal for just about anything.
You can have an emotion Journal- a journal you track your emotions so you can recognize your triggers and learn how to control them.
You could have a self-love journal- A journal you only write positive self-talk, thoughts, and behaviors. This type of journal can help you recognize what negative thoughts and behaviors can be changed.
People have used journals since the beginning of time. It has been recognized as a great way to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. It can also help by focusing your mind and helping you organize your life.
I will not lie to you, journaling takes discipline. Discipline, like healing, is not linear. Some days you will take pleasure in writing down a particular feeling or memory, while on other days, it will feel like a chore. The key to journaling is knowing when to utilize it so you can have a small piece of mental peace.
Let me know in the comments if you journal and what you journal!
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