5 Surprising Benefits of Journaling That Can Change Your Life
Posted by Adam Jelic on
If the mention of journaling dredges up cringey memories of a diary covered in pink hearts, childhood day-to-day recitations, and an easily pickable lock, you should probably know that’s not the case anymore.
In fact, the very idea of journals has shifted since then to include a variety of forms – ranging from bucket list journals to gratitude, goals, and even fitness journals that can help improve users’ overall quality of life. Now, if this just sounds like we’re setting you up for an embarrassing revisit to your “Dear diary” days, try asking yourself these questions: did you feel better after those confessions of struggles and fears? Did it feel good to be free of judgment? Did your mind feel clearer? If you answered a resounding yes, you might want to try your hand at journaling.
In this article we share five unexpected benefits of journaling that can change your life (for the better!).
1. Understand yourself better
Doesn’t it sound ludicrous that a person could live up to tens of decades, only to realise they’re not familiar with themselves? But these situations are unfortunately common, especially in the growing technological era where it’s so easy to lose sight of yourself when surrounded by so many distractions. A self-journal is the perfect medium for self-discovery. It helps you explore topics and themes you otherwise wouldn't, hence putting you in touch with your authentic self. Embarking on a journey of self-reflection can boost your mood, reduce symptoms of depression, and even improve problem-solving abilities. Stumped on where to start? Here are a few prompts to help you out:
- Write a letter to yourself five years ago.
- Describe yourself using the first 10 words that come to mind.
- What are your biggest goals?
- What values or principles do you consider most important in life?
- What fulfills you?
- When do you trust yourself the most and least
2. Record your legendary stories
From elaborate food adventures to spur of the moment decisions leading to unforgettable nights, we all have an arsenal of stories we break out during awkward blind dates. But have you thought about writing them down? Better yet, have you considered documenting them for your children or grandchildren? While this may seem unconventional, this “legacy” could serve as an inspirational journal, a little get-to-know-me, or simply an insight into the context of your period. You can also encourage your children and their children to do the same. Compiling an ancestral journal would promote a unique sense of belonging and connectedness between each generation.
3. Reminder to be kind to ourselves
The purpose of our life is a question we have all asked ourselves at least once in the course of our days. Sometimes this question even precedes queries of self-worth and satisfaction. When you're feeling down, journaling is the ideal remedy for self-care since it teaches you to speak kindly to yourself without judgment. Some ideas for the rainy days include writing a letter of self-acceptance, making a list to be grateful for, and jotting down positive affirmations to recite when feeling overwhelmed by your insecurities.
4. Enhance communication skills
You remember having those nightmares of standing in front of an audience and drowning in anxiety as your mind just blanks out on the prepared speech? Well, what about experiencing those moments in real life? Public speaking or general anxiety when communicating with an individual or a group is entirely normal – and even easily solvable. In fact, purchasing a daily journal book is the first step to placing these troubles behind you. By putting your words and thoughts on paper, you can clean up phrases to form meaningful sentences and eventually, form better decisions in verbal communication. As such, journaling is a great practice to improve communication efficiency with yourself and others.
5. Improve your immune system
Before this comes off sounding far-fetched, let’s start by exploring the relationship between physical and mental health. As previously mentioned, journaling can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Being in a good mental state can keep you healthy and help prevent serious health conditions. Studies have indicated that people who regularly engage in “expressive writing” have decreased risk for illnesses, including strengthened immunity, reduced blood pressure, and improved liver and lung function. So on top of hitting the gym, maybe try out a few sessions at the writing desk with a journal organiser. We’re sure your body will thank you!
Whether you have identified an area of your life that needs a little nudge in the right direction, or if you’re just looking for a safe space to express yourself, experiencing the innumerable benefits of journaling is easy as picking up a journal planner in Australia. At MiGOALS, we produce the best goal setting planners that are beautifully designed and aimed at your personal development. View our range of empowering planning tools that have aided so many in changing their lives!