Do you feel like you have a million and one thoughts always on your mind? Do you live in a constant state of scatterbrain? Do you often forget what you’re doing as thoughts seem to plow over each other and distract you from your original thought? Or walk into a room and forget why?
Or perhaps you’re the worrier. You fall asleep worrying about the future, your kids, money, your significant other, or if you feed the dog. You wake up exhausted and worrying about how you’ll make it through the day with so little sleep.
We often need to release those thoughts because, most of the time, they are insignificant and don’t matter. I am an overthinker extraordinaire. But I’ve found ways to counteract these thoughts to move forward confidently and clearly. All you have to do is grab a pen and paper; I’ll share five tips to start journaling you can’t resit!
Journaling, and Why is it a Healthy Habit You Need
Journaling is good for the psyche. It’s been shown to improve mental wellness by minimizing depression and boosting immune system function. Journaling daily resets my brain from the thousands of thoughts filtering through constantly.
The art of journaling can help with self-confidence, inspire creativity and help set and accomplish goals. It’s a great way to connect with your brilliant mind by sifting through the madness on plain and simple paper.
Tips to start journaling
Journaling may seem like it’s not for you. I know people who will sit and stare at the blank paper in front of them. Luckily no one is reading your journal, so don’t worry about spelling mistakes or grammar.
You can use a digital journal or notepad, but I firmly believe in the power of ink and paper. I’m also a snob about my ink and pen and will save my preferences for a later topic.
Grab a pen and a piece of paper; any piece will do.
# 1: Write down the date, time.
# 2: Write three things you are thankful for; “I am thankful for _________” or “Thank you for _______ “
# 3: Greet yourself and tell yourself you love yourself, like this, “Good morning, I love you!” When was the last time you gave yourself some love? You are overdue for some self-love and deserve it.
# 4: Write an affirmation, something that’s believable. “I am developing my journaling habit one day at a time.” or “I am becoming a more consistent journalist,” then say it aloud.
# 5: Write Brain Dump and then continue to do just that, dump it all out, whatever it is that you have fear or worry about, all those thoughts that keep you up at night. Let it go. Make it a list or use proper sentence structure. It doesn’t matter; this is your private space. Bitch and complain; no one will judge. Write in all caps if you must.
Congrats! You’ve made your first journal entry.
Bonus Tips for starting a journaling habit
- Set a reminder on your phone until you get into a habit. I’ve been journaling constantly for the past seven years. I crave journaling; it has become why I look forward to my mornings. They say it takes 30 – 60 days to make a habit.
- Set a timer. 10 -15 minutes is all you need to clear your head and get those thoughts on paper. The more you do it, the easier it’ll get, and the creative juices will flow wildly. I set a timer at 60 minutes; I could write all day if I didn’t.
- Consider committing to a formal journal. I’m a textile human; I love to touch and smell paper; weird, I know, but you should try it. I prefer Black and Red Journals; it’s heavier weight and smooth to the touch. Plus black cover with a red binder makes it feel dark and ominous, full of deep dark secrets, something a vampire would most definitely choose.
Grab the scratch paper on your counter, start your simple journaling practice today, and experience instant relief and accomplishment. Come face to face with those thoughts once they’re on paper and let them go. Make room for happy and positive thoughts, and enjoy the rest of your day. Over time you’ll find so much more from your journaling habit.
Commit below
What type of scrap paper did you use? What color was your pen or pencil? When will you schedule your journaling time for the rest of the week?
