Penning down your thoughts: Tips to start journaling

Journaling is therapeutic. Have you ever tried it? You should. It gives you the space and opportunity to write down your thoughts, feelings, experiences and hopes. Whether you choose to keep a physical copy of your reflections or go the digital way, it’s one of those practices that has long-term benefits.

Think about it. When was the last time you penned down your thoughts? If you had to write a letter to yourself, what would it say? We go through a rollercoaster of emotions every day, but for the most part we bury the regrets or never really let our moments of happiness linger. Journaling gives you that option to document those little incidents and reflect on the big ones that might need a little extra time to process. There’s so much we might want to do, so much we wished we had said when something happened, but most often than not we’re tied down by situations or people. But if we let the emotions flow freely on paper (or an iPad), it could give us more clarity, another perspective and maybe even a solution.

But, yes, it’s certainly no easy task to start. Starting to pen your thoughts, aspirations, happiness, or even your regrets, needs some practice. So, if you’re waiting to find a way to begin, here’s a checklist to get started on that intimate dialogue with yourself.

Figure out the ‘why’

Why do you want to jot down your thoughts? Before you begin make sure you answer this question. Knowing why you want to start journaling will help you decide the kind of journal you want to create — be it for goal setting and recording your progress, or a personal recollection of key events, or a simple ‘dear diary’ record of day-to-day experiences and feelings or a gratitude journal to feel motivated and to stay positive.

Choose a journal

Are you someone who loves to write or type? Physical journals are great and are more personal. Flipping through the pages to relive a moment back in time is quite an exhilarating experience. Paint some colours, add doodles and some polaroids to make it a truly fun addition to your self-care routine. Yes, you can do quite a lot with a digital journal too, but writing on paper is still a more fun option and it’s also a great way to get away from your gadgets for a bit.

Decide a time

Choose a consistent time to write. Whether it’s early morning or during a lunch break at work or before you hit the pillow, dedicating a particular time to write will help establish a routine. Pick a time to suit the type of journal you choose. Figure out when you’re the most introspective or motivated and energetic to sit down and reflect.

Start small

Don’t expect the words to flow and turn into a book right away. Start with single sentences and build on it. Focus on a topic to make it easier to begin.

Try templates and prompts

If you’re stuck but unsure where to begin then look for journal prompts, which are basically ideas, questions or suggestions that can make it easier to begin. You can also buy a beautifully crafted journal that comes with a standard template of questions to answer every day.

Write, don’t edit

You’re not writing something that needs to be published, so don’t go back to edit or rewrite. Let the feelings flow uninterrupted and unhindered. Express yourself without judgment, censorship, or the need to correct. 

Journaling helps you evolve, learn, and grow. But it’s a process that needs to be followed consistently to reap the benefits. Whether you go digital or take a pen and paper to write down your thoughts, it’s a habit that needs to be cultivated. It’s also the perfect ‘me-time’ activity that helps you gain clarity about who you truly are. So, do yourself a favour and start your intimate, uncensored, uninhibited, and unedited dialogue with yourself.