Writing in my journal is time dedicated to me. Even if I just write the date and doodle for a few minutes it feels like time off. It helps me get a good night’s sleep. I can feel myself relax while writing and if I want to I can just write down any issues or problems and then close it up to be dealt with another day. My journal gives attention to me and only me; always there when I need it and happy to great me with a blank page ready for my thoughts.
Goals and ideas.
Journaling keeps my connected with my goals. I don’t just write my journal, I read it too. Goals, resolutions, wishes, good ideas and even vague aspirations are all in there. Sometimes I will change modify or add to the list, but they can’t be forgotten like previous years, because they are in the journal. I have set a theme for the year, an overall aspiration that I write on every page, in the corner, down the side in different colours or styles. This keeps it in the forefront each day and is a real spur to achievement.
The Happiness factor.
I have frequently read about gratitude being a factor in happiness, but now that it's a tool I use in my journaling I know it makes a huge difference. Every time I write in my journal I try to think of something I am grateful for and write it down. Even if I have to dig deep for the thought, once I have it, the smile always follows. My journal is also a place where I work things out; writing it down really does help. Whether it is a practical or emotional problem that needs sorting out, my journal can act like a coach or counsellor and guide me to the answers I have inside.
It’s fun!
In my journal I have my own logo, designed by me and for only me with a felt tipped pen. I have mottoes, jokes and quotes. I choose themes for the day, week, month and year. I can draw badly, write beautifully or ‘shout’ in red pen or capitals – it doesn’t matter. My journal is my own private place, like a childhood den with a favourite toy, big cushions and some snacks.
Journaling equipment:
· A pen.
· A notebook or some paper.
That is all. For many years I have promised myself I would keep a journal, looked out for the right pen, the right leather-bound notebook etc. It has never really happened. I have tried journal apps on my android phone as well, but they are not as welcoming, not as much “me” as simple pen and paper.
This year my only resolution at midnight on New Year’s Eve was to write a journal, no matter what. So my journal started in my son’s old Harry Potter notebook with an old biro that I had lying around. Now, the very fact that the journal exists has given me a place to put those nice pens and a reason to buy a pretty notebook when I see it reduced. Harry Potter will be my journal until it is full, and then the little pink silk-backed number I picked up last week in the sale.
Well done for hand writing your journal. Enjoy it. I am tied to a keyboard.
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