In today's busy schedule self reflection through journaling can provide a way to deal with pent up feelings, stress and other unresolved emotional problems. When you discover the best method and time to journal, writers will begin to appreciate the benefits of this journaling exercise.
Journaling can be done to meet various personal and professional goals and in order to get the most out if it, you need to approach it in structured manner.
Benefits of Journaling
The following list illustrates some of the benefits you can receive when you journal.
- Journaling encourages you to record issues and tackle them in an objective manner;
- As you articulate your feelings in print, you will have more success in identifying the pent up issues that needs to be addressed, and;
- It allows you to measure your progress and note the steps taken to achieve the results.
This list is not exhaustive as there are many more advantages to this exercise.
Journaling the Right Way
Firstly, one must set aside a special place to journal. You may not have the luxury of an entire room but wherever you choose, make sure you are comfortable. This space should be clutter-free and used only for the purpose of journaling.
Next you need to decide on the best time to journal. Whether you journal at daybreak or when your household is fast asleep, keep it consistent. Developing a routine and sticking to it is important to achieve the best results.
When you sit down to journal, allow yourself enough time for reflection. This is an important part of the process. Reflection gives you the opportunity to think and analyze how and what you are feeling. This would help you note down your feeling more accurately. For some people it helps to play relaxing music while journaling.
Release your Thoughts and Feelings in a Journal
Once you begin to write, let it all out, don't shy away from the painful feelings. All the fears, worries or joys should be written down. Effective journaling will help you to get your feelings out in an honest yet confidential manner.
As part of the process, it is important to note the steps taken to solve problems or ways you counteracted the fears and worries. By doing this you are making note of effective problem solving techniques that you can rely on when faced with similar problems in the future.
Consistent journaling can act as a cleanser for the mind and soul; it can also promote a happier outlook on life. The process reduces stress, allows you to learn more about yourself and allows for self analysis which often provides answers to lingering questions.
Build a Library of Solutions Through Journaling
Journaling can be a great motivational tool. When you write down your goals and revisit them frequently, it helps to keep them fresh in your mind. You can then devise action plans to achieve these goals and take note of these steps as part of the journaling process.
In her book Journalution, Sandy Grason states that journaling can heal your life and help materialize dreams. In order to get the most out of journaling you just need to be consistent and follow the simple steps involved.
Sources:
- Grason, Sandy. Journalution. CA:New World Library,1995.
- Robson.J. (2009) Journaling Tools [Online] Available from JournalingTools.com/ [Accessed 8 June 2009].
