7 Great Reasons to Journal

What if you could start or end every day with a trusted friend who would listen patiently to anything that was on your mind? A friend you could tell anything, even your secrets?  You won’t find such a friend on Facebook, but you will if you take up journaling!
Now we’re not talking here about a diary in which you simply write down what happened each day in your life, but a real journal. A journal is about the process of writing, not about creating a product that you or someone else will read later. A journal is the keeper of everything—not only what happened, but also your deepest feelings, dreams, goals, triumphs, and challenges. It’s a place where you can take off your mask and truly be yourself.  And you’re only required to follow one rule: Don’t censor yourself! What’s not to like?
Here are just seven of the many, many reasons to start or restart your journal practice.
1. Journaling saves time. It’s true! Here’s why: When you journal in the morning and allow yourself to let go of frustrations, worries, regrets and shoulds, you’re creating an emotional clean slate for the day. Regular journalers go through their days focused with fewer distracting thoughts, and so they’re more efficient and have more energy. I find I actually get more done on the days I journal than when I don’t!  You’ll have to journal for a few weeks to see the difference, but trust me, it works.
2. Can I interest you in a 24/7 therapist or coach for the price of a pen and a notebook?  A daily journaling practice can help you gain insight, foster self-acceptance, and develop greater compassion for others. Be sure to write about what’s going right as well as what’s bothering you. And if you’ve already got a human therapist, journaling can help speed your process along.
3. Need a self-confidence boost? Record your talents, achievements, and small and large victories in your journal. Number them, and don’t stop until you have at least 25.This is an especially useful exercise when you’re discouraged or feeling down.
4. Let go of the old stuff. Is there something in your past that needs to be healed? Write a letter to the person or persons with whom you have unresolved issues. You can let it all hang out because you’re not going to send it. The process of writing the letter will give likely give you clarity and a better perspective on the situation. With this new information, you can decide what further action, if any, is needed to resolve the issue. This works even if the person causing the conflict is no longer alive.
5. Make it happen! Most of us know the power of affirmations and intentions. Your journal is the perfect place to write down your goals and dreams.
6. Have fun! Doodle, make up silly stories, or laugh at yourself (a great life skill). No one said it had to be serious all the time!
7. Connect with a power beyond yourself. Write your prayers; express your gratitude; ask for help.
Make the commitment to journal daily for a couple of weeks. Strive for three pages, but give yourself a gold star for even one. The goal is to create a regular practice, not to write volumes. Write whatever is on your mind or in your heart, but write. Once you’ve experienced the transformational power of journaling for yourself, you’ll show up at the page with anticipation each time!