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December 7, 2020

Start Your New Year Off Write With These 5 Great Journaling Tips

By Tess Aurore

When I was 19, I moved away from home for college. I was in a new city, where I didn’t know anyone; going to school for something I knew nothing about; and living by myself in a tiny studio apartment, right in the middle of downtown. I was stressed, scared, and excited. So, I opened up a document on my laptop and typed away my feelings.

From then on out, each day ended the same way: a recap of my day, emotions, and other worries. Whether it was pen and paper or memos on my laptop, I wrote journals ranging from one sentence to three pages. It was my safe space, where I could explore my feelings without judgement.

As the New Year comes around, I’ve decided to pick up journaling on a daily basis again. (I stopped once I moved to another city.) And plenty of other people are wanting to do the same. It’s unsurprising — having healthy outlets is crucial to the human existence!

If you’re wanting to know how to journal, take a look at these tips when you’re first getting started.

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how to journal
how to journal

Think about what you enjoy writing.

Journaling should never feel like a chore. If you find yourself bored or uninterested in detailing your day, then don’t do that! Instead, write down funny anecdotes, favorite lines from a book, or what happened in the TV show you’re watching.

how to journal

Begin with short entries.

Don’t pressure yourself to hit the 300-word mark every time — you’re journaling to blow off steam, not create it. The entry can be as small as half of a sentence. Whatever comes to your mind is perfect as is.

how to journal

Choose your ideal time of day.

Maybe it’s at night, after the day is done and you’re recapping what happened. Or maybe it’s in the morning, when you can start your to-do list. Whatever works for you, schedule it. It’s okay if you don’t write for the entire time — just knowing you have that time is what matters. 

how to journal

Set the mood.

Turn on your heated blanket, light some candles, play instrumental music…anything that gets you into a relaxed state of mind. While you might be writing about stressors or sadness, it helps to feel as comfortable as possible.

how to journal

Remember that it’s okay if you can’t find anything to write about.

Sometimes emotions are so strong that you aren’t able to process them immediately. Sometimes all the journal prompts in the world don’t entice you. Not every day is going to be full of inspiration. While you can try to at least write a word, don’t beat yourself up if it’s just not happening. 

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There are also fantastic journals that can guide you, should you not know where to start. My favorite is “One Question A Day: A Five-Year Journal.” Each day, you answer one short prompt. The next five years, you can see what you wrote previously and compare your answers. Seeing the change is fun!
Long story short: there’s no wrong or right way to journal. Do what comes naturally to you, and follow the inspiration. It’s meant to be cathartic, and it’s just for you — be honest, be kind to yourself, and let the creative juices flow!

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Are you planning to start journaling in the New Year? Were these tips helpful? Let us know in the comments!

For More Mindfulness Tips, You Should Read:

An Artist’s Guide To Art Journaling

Roses, Buds, And Thorns: Our Favorite Way To Practice Mindfulness Every Day

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