Photo: melanfolia
Does the idea of everyday journaling sound calming and reflective, but then you open that pristine notebook of yours and...crickets? You're not alone. That's exactly how I felt, struggling to turn journaling into a lasting habit. And many people feel just like we do.
But what if there was a way to make journaling fun, engaging, and something you genuinely look forward to each day? You are in the right place, as we are going to be discussing this today! Here is how to crack the code on building a journaling routine that sticks, so you can finally unlock the amazing benefits of self-discovery, stress relief, and creativity that journaling offers.
Journaling for Beginners: 5 Little Tips to Get You Started
Journaling is such a powerful, low-key tool for self-discovery, stress relief, and creativity boost, that you should definitely consider sticking to it! Even if you've never ever written your thoughts onto a paper, you'll be able to start without any problems! Let's begin by exploring exactly how and where to get started.
- #1. Find your perfect journal...
It can be a fancy notebook or a simple notepad – choose something that sparks joy. Maybe a vibrantly colored journal with inspiring quotes sparks your creativity. Find a journal that reflects your personality and beckons you to write, plus throw into this pile a few cool stationery supplies.
- #2. Start small...
Don't pressure yourself to write for hours. Aim for journaling 5-10 minutes a day, that's how you actually build a habit! Even a quick reflection can be powerful.
- #3. Free flow...
Don't worry about grammar or spelling. Think of journaling as your safe space – a judgment-free zone. Just let your thoughts flow freely, one page after another...
- #4. Variety is key...
Journaling isn't limited to sentences and paragraphs. Lists, doodles, or even collages can be part of your starting journaling journey together with your inner thoughts in a classic written form.
- #5. Make it a ritual...
Try weaving your newly acquired journaling habit into your existing routine for ultimate consistency. Choose a particular time each day, the one that goes with our lifestyle the best. Write before bed for a calming wind-down, or use it as a morning pick-me-up with your coffee.
How to Journal Every Single Day (Even When You Don't Feel Like It)
Building a habit takes a bit of time and a lot of commitment. But, there are a few more simple strategies you can follow (I like following them myself!) to ensure your journal doesn't become another forgotten item on your nightstand. First and foremost, schedule a time for journaling in your calendar, or planner or use a reminder app. You can ask your friend or family member, who's interested in journaling, to journal with you, so you can motivate each other.
As we've discussed above, it is best to start small. So, begin building your journaling habit and reward yourself for reaching journaling milestones and goals. This always works, I promise!
If you don't know where exactly to start your new hobby – start with morning pages. This technique, popularized by Julia Cameron in "The Artist's Way," involves writing three longhand pages in a stream-of-consciousness style every morning. It's a fantastic way to clear your head and jumpstart your creativity.
30 Simple Journaling Prompts to Jumpstart Your Entries
- General to get you started:
What is one thing you're grateful for today?
Describe something beautiful you saw today.
What is a small accomplishment you achieved this week?
Write a letter to your future self.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
What is your favorite memory from childhood?
List three things that make you happy.
What is a quote that resonates with you? Why?
Write about a time you overcame a challenge.
Imagine you could travel anywhere in the world. Where would you go and why?
- Reflection prompts:
What is something you learned this week?
Was there a time you felt frustrated this week? How did you deal with it?
What are you currently working towards?
What is one thing you'd like to improve about yourself?
What is your biggest fear?
- Creative prompts:
Write a poem about your favorite thing.
Create a dialogue between you and an inanimate object.
Describe a dream you had recently.
Write a short story about a character who is different from you.
Make a list of 20 things you want to do before you die.
- Gratitude prompts:
Write a thank-you letter to someone supportive of you.
Write a list of three things that you appreciate and love about your body or face.
What is the thing you are most grateful for in your life at this moment?
Write about a time someone did something kind for you.
Think about a possession you value. Why is it special to you?
- Self-care prompts:
What is one simple thing you can do to take care of yourself today?
List your favorite ways to relax and de-stress.
What are your healthy habits? What are some unhealthy habits you'd like to break?
Describe your ideal self-care day.
Write down five things you love about yourself.
Concluding...
So there you have it! Hopefully, with these simple tips and techniques, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the benefits of journaling. All you need to put on the altar of this powerful tool is your time, dedication, and your innermost thoughts. How does it sound? Good! Then grab a pen and watch yourself transform. (And hey, you might even surprise yourself and never miss a day again!)
