It’s a typical movie trope that young girls (and sometimes boys) keep a journal in which they write their deepest and darkest secrets. While many of us don’t have the time in our day to sit and reflect in our diaries, these fictional teenage girls are actually on to something. Journaling can be one of the healthiest, most meditative experiences for men and women, both old and young. Here are some of the benefits of keeping a journal in adulthood.
Track progress
One of the reasons many adults keep a journal is to track their progress with a project, such as fitness. Many fitness buffs will keep a diary in which they record nutritional information, the workouts they do, and their weight. Beyond fitness, keeping a journal can also help you track progress in everyday life. If you’re suffering from depression or anxiety, or just going through a hard time in life, journaling can be a way to record the things that made you happy and what set you back. Reflecting on these little wins and losses can help you move forward and you can bask in a rewarding feeling when you see how far you’ve come over the years.
Spark memories
Journaling can be like a verbal picture, a snapshot of a day where, once you see or read it, memories come flooding back. Maybe it’s a great day you spent with your family at the beach, or a serious conversation you had with your grandmother where she gave you some great advice. These memories may fade over time, but looking back at your journal will help you remember some of the best moments in life as if they’re happening all over again. It’s actually a great exercise to strengthen your memory. You can also keep a journal to track your dreams, as many of us forget them shortly after we wake up. Reflect on your dreams upon waking up and jot down a few key ideas you took from them. Seeing where your mind goes while you sleep may help you look at situations differently during the day.
Organize your thoughts
Sometimes, your day can get hectic and it becomes difficult to keep your thoughts together. Journaling is a structured way to put your ideas into categories or face them head-on on paper. Writing them down makes your thoughts tangible, and you might be able to better assess a situation after choosing the right words to describe it. This can be anything from how to be a better parent, whether you should look at Halton houses for sale or continue renting, or if you should cut ties with a toxic friend. Laying out your thoughts and feelings and writing a list of pros and cons can help you look at a situation more objectively and organize your thoughts in a way your mind can easily process.
Image credit: Pexels
