How To Start Journaling

Journaling for Self-Reflection: Essential Tips to Kickstart Your Journey

Recently, I stumbled upon my high school journal, filled with nostalgic moments and, truth be told, some hilariously candid entries from teenage Julie (hint: pets and presidential aspirations made the cut! 😂). Perhaps I’ll share some entries with you in the future. Journaling has been something I’ve always loved. It’s always been therapeutic for me. 

Journaling is a great way to take a moment to reflect on your thoughts and emotions, as well as track your progress toward achieving your goals. Here are some helpful tips to get started:

1. Select the Perfect Journal: Find a journal that aligns with you, whether it’s a physical notebook or a digital app, and ensure it suits your lifestyle. I love and use both types! Artful Agenda is a fantastic digital choice that doubles as a digital planner. (Check it out at www.artfulagenda.com)
2. Make Time for Journaling: Even just 10 minutes a day will make a difference. Set a specific time for it, and make it part of your day, like brushing your teeth or eating breakfast. Before you know it, it will become a habit.
3. Embrace Prompts: If you find yourself unsure of what to write, use prompts to spark your creativity. Simple prompts like “Today, I feel…” or “One thing I’m grateful for is…” can serve as excellent starting points.
4. Write freely: Don’t worry about grammar or spelling, just let your thoughts flow onto the page. This is your personal space to express yourself, so write whatever comes to mind.
5. Reflect on Your Entries: After you’ve finished journaling, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve written. What insights have you gained? What patterns do you notice? Use this information to help guide your future entries.

Remember, journaling is a personal practice, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you. Happy writing!