What’s the Big Deal about Journaling? 7 Reasons to Journal!

My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the King; My tongue is the pen of a ready writer. Psalm 45:1

As I am writing this post, I am reminded of all the journals I have used to write down my thoughts over the years. My earliest memory of my first-time journaling would be when my mom gave me a diary that had a little lock with a key. It was one that I treasured. My oldest brother would always want to get into it. I don’t think he wanted to read it, I believe he was more intrigued by the lock and key element.

Journaling phenomenon

For me, journaling is a life-changing experience. It is like traveling, it gives me an outlet to unwind, escape and record thoughts and memories. Whether it’s pen to paper or typed it is a therapeutic and extraordinary engagement.

I utilize physical journals, and digital notepads to release my thoughts. Seeing ink on paper is my favorite method.

Unquestionably, journaling is more than just keeping records of memories and engaging in self-reflection.

Keep reading to find out reasons to journal:

7 Benefits of Journaling:

1. Disentangles Your Thoughts

Putting pen to paper or a digital pen to a notebook, helps you to sort through the distractions of mental clutter; improve focus and clarity. If you are unsure of something or need to visualize the pros and cons of a matter, writing out your thoughts helps you to gain a better understanding of how to move forward.  

Becoming better at focusing and problem-solving is a useful skill to possess.

2. Keeps Your Memory Alert and Sharp

Journaling is an exercise for your brain and keeps it in shape. Your memory along with your comprehension will be boosted as well.

3. Connect to Your Faith, Values, Goals, and Emotions

Journaling about what you have faith or belief in, why you believe it, how you feel, and what you aspire to do, connects you with these things better. It may also provide details on why you react or feel the way you do. As you write your entries, bible verses, quotes, or thoughts, you will identify things that you value and put emphasis on.

4. Mood Enhancer

Creating a greater sense of overall emotional happiness can be obtained through journaling. Developing new habits provides a sense of confidence. Through journaling, you will laugh, cry, and engage with the past and present. A catalyst will take place. It is good for your well-being.

5. Gratitude

Being grateful and taking a moment each day to think about and write down at least three things you are thankful for allows you to realize how blessed you truly are.

Be specific and not broad.

6. Your Daily Life

What does your life consist of daily?

Spending time with family, traveling, working, exercising, or even gardening are ways we may choose to occupy our day. But do you ever stop to think about what you did in the last twenty-four hours?

Day after day pass and you have a vague recollection or proof of what happened. Did you learn or start something new? Did you have an epiphany? How about enjoyed time with family? Make progress? Counted your blessings?

Our lives are filled with information, knowledge, and insight. The most recent day-to-day lessons can be used to impact what we have going on right now.

7. Track Your Overall History

Journal writing allows you to see how you have developed over time. Things you have achieved and focused on throughout the years.

Writing allows you to be honest and true to yourself. You can uncover the root of an issue or gain insight. As you write and dialogue with yourself, you become more open to insights you may have overlooked.

• Questions can be answered through self-reflection and re-reading previous writings.
• Do you achieve your goals or repeatedly switch up?
• Are you content or anxious?
• What types of people are you drawn to?
• How often do you travel or visit with family?
• What experiences, challenges, or actions have taken place?

Types of Journals

I have various journals and I had a habit of writing everything all in one. My journals to date are more systematic. Currently, I have one for:

• Daily thoughts and gratitude
• Prayer list and requests
• Thoughts and ideas from the Lord (kept by my bed)
• Plans and goals

Where to Start

If you have never journaled, start by purchasing a physical journal and determine what your first type will consist of.

There isn’t a right or wrong way to journal. Just start writing.

Journaling Sum Up

• Vent your emotions.
• Clear your mind.
• Write and read your life’s story.
• Self-Identity.
• Personal-Development.
• Track your life.

Finally, out with the past and in with the present. Moving forward, you can record your memories. Utilize journaling as a means of accomplishing a purpose or achieving positive results. Take advantage of this useful life skill.

In addition to some of the ideas I listed, what are some of the things you journal about? Leave a comment below.

Journal Resources

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