Why Do You Journal?
Many of you read my last post about the importance of journaling and responded to me privately. You want to keep a journal but do not know where to start, don’t see the value, don’t feel like you have anything interesting to say, feel too distracted, and don’t know how to persist with the process. So you stopped. Yet each one of you who has contacted me feels a craving to write out your thoughts. The most common reason for not writing was that you don’t have the time to do so and want support.
I can understand how you are feeling. Today, everyone spends so much time on the computer typing out their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Communicating is quick and rushed. Sometimes it may seem that there isn’t the time or space to process what is happening.
Over the past few years, I have been reminded how important it is to make time for reflection in our busy lives. There is something to be said about slowing down the process and taking time to enjoy and learn from the experiences. Life passes by so quickly, and it is of much value to sit and take in the current moment.
One of the ways I capture the moments is through journaling. I love spending time writing out by hand in a private notebook filled with blank pages the thoughts I have been keeping in my head. If one were to open up my brain, they would have access to a treasure chest of secret thoughts that I cherish. My mind comes with me wherever I go. We all have this capsule of stories in our minds. The sharing of those experiences could benefit and provide comfort to a lot of people.
At any random time of day, our minds are filled with many thoughts. One of the ways we can savour the moments is through sharing them with someone. Journaling is the place where I can do that. It can be done anywhere and for any amount of time. Some people don’t have people in their life who they can share with; or, they feel the timing isn’t right to talk about what matters most to them. Sometimes, you may feel like no one will understand what you are going through, so you mask your pain and remain in silence. The journal is there for you in the times when others can’t be, or during those times when you can’t recognize that they are there.
Releasing your secrets onto a page without judgment helps you heal and find your way. The journal is a place where you can speak from the heart and express the secrets that you hold onto so tightly. You can vent to it like a trusted friend who has all the time in the world for you. You can say whatever you want and bring to light all your experiences, hurt, and insecurities and be comforted. You don’t have to care about how the person on the other end will respond to your confessions.
Why do you keep a journal? What are tips you would suggest for others who want to start writing? I’d love to know what you want to know moving forward in the journaling process. I will be giving you prompts to guide you and empower you in your life.
Thank you for reading and your presence at this beach retreat. You Rock! I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts in the comment section below.
See you at the beach!