Terms ‘diary’ or ‘journal’ often have some exclusive, personal, spiritual allure around them, that only a very self-reflective character (or a great writer) could possibly be fond of. However, that is not the case. That’s why today we answer a key question, how would our lives change if each of us took ten minutes a day to be reflective?
#1 – It is so therapeutic
Let’s be honest, who does not love calling his friend and having a good rant? But chances are there are some things that are holding you back, even in case those friends could be closer. In your diary, you can say whatever you want, no matter how awful or self-obsessed it seems. If you put an old-fashioned lock on your diary, or if you hide it under the pillow. It feels so good to have all your thoughts out there, instead of twirling inside your head late at night.
# 2 It can give you perspective
Sometimes, things seem worse than they actually are. You write them down in your diary and you fight through, but in a couple of weeks, you turn back the pages and you end up laugh at it. The things that seemed “life or death level” important, suddenly look stupid. It’s a great way to get some perspective and learn important lesson of seeing the greater schemes of things.
# 3 It can get you organized
Writing in a diary every morning and/or evening can help you focus on your goals and motives. In the evenings, you can write a to-do list for the next day, so that when you start your day knowing what needs to get done. At the end of the day, you can also write what went well during that day and what you felt needed to be better. In addition, looking at the tasks over the past few weeks, we can more clearly identify what to focus on in life, what are we procrastinating or what we need to take a break from.
# 4 It improves your memory
You know the feeling you get when you find an old photograph and it just takes you back to that moment? Journaling gives you the same feeling. Reading a journal from a few months ago can transport you back to moments you thought you had forgotten. Writing down things can help them stay in your mind a bit longer.
Convinced and want to give it a go?
Great. Now how to get started?
Get the right tools
A nice notebook and a great pen will spark your enthusiasm about journaling. Nothing like turning the pages of your nice-looking diary and going through the lines of your unique handwriting.
Face the blank page
In case the blank page gives you a kind of a stage fright, just write something, seriously. Once you have filled your first page, keeping it up will be so much easier. If you need a little push, search the web for journaling prompts and questions to ponder on.
Enjoy the ride
You don’t have to stick to any rules. You can keep notes of advices, quotes, praises and things you are grateful for in your diary. Keep it strictly textual, or fill it with pictures, stamps and glitter. To really get the most of it, it is important to go back over old records as well, no matter how hard it feels. Just remember – you are on a journey to be and feel the best you can and these paper pages should be your ally in that mission.