Why Most People Begin Journaling

Whether you're a prolific writer or not, journaling is one of the best ways to reduce stress, anxiety, and help individuals discover things about themselves that they never knew. It may sound unnecessary or even boring, but the long-term benefits surely outweigh the 5-10 minutes it takes to record your thoughts, feelings, or aspirations.

Obviously journaling is an individual activity and it's up to the person what they journal about and for how long. However, developing this simple habit has been proven to have substantial mental benefits and it creates a documented log of whatever you're journaling about. Whether it's your goal, desires, or feelings, a long enough and well-detailed journal will show your progress or regression. This is important because it will affect how you think about yourself and what needs to be changed.

Journaling is also a great way to improve writing skills which may be therapeutic or relaxing depending on the person. Simply writing one's thoughts and feelings (whatever they may be) gives your brain a break by dumping these thoughts on paper and relieving the pressure from your mind. Many people find that after journaling, they are more focused and determined on individual tasks or deadlines, instead of being overwhelmed by all the thoughts in their head.

Another pro of journaling is that it hold people accountable for certain goals or challenges they set for themselves. For example, I have a friend that wanted to have a detailed log about his thoughts and feelings during a month of not drinking alcohol. The journal acted as a driving force for him to continue his month of sobriety.

Travel journaling is also a popular option as many people enjoy writing their experiences and travel stories. Although most people rely on picture-taking and memory, if you add journaling, it will only amplify the memories and stories of your vacation.

Journaling is simply you having a conversation with yourself without people thinking you're crazy. While it isn't for everyone, I encourage you to give it try and see what great benefits and changes it'll bring to your everyday life.