Is your life becoming too hectic? Are you constantly rushing around, trying desperately to tackle that to-do list? Ironically, as we have created a world that is easier, we somehow have managed to overfill our time. So, what can we do about this stressful life? Journaling is a unique opportunity for us to connect with yourselves. If you want a return to a simpler life, journaling can lead to a more peaceful you.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is about being present in the present. It is about being aware of what is happening at this moment. It’s not about checking your smartphone as you watch a show on Netflix while also eating your dinner. It’s about being aware of one task that you are doing. Mindfulness is about being committed fully to whatever you are doing, even if you are doing nothing.
A few moments
The nice thing about journaling is that it doesn’t have to take a long time. Most people when they think about journaling envision a giant time commitment. And while journaling works best if you commit to writing every day, you really only have to spend a few minutes at it. Even if you just write a few sentences about what you are grateful for, that effort will help shape your perception of your life.
Get into routine
Some people like to wake up and journal while they enjoy their morning coffee. Others like the reflection time at the end of the day. Maybe you have some spare time on your commute home from work. Find a time that works for you. You will want to make sure your journaling time fits into your natural routine. This way when you first start it doesn’t seem like a giant time commitment. Once you get into the flow of journaling, it will be easier to think of it as a part of your daily life, similar to brushing your teeth.
Various Topics
There are many ways to journal. You can write a diary-type format where you recount all the major highlights of your day. You can write daily affirmations where you appreciate who you are. You can write free-form or even find journaling kits that help with motivation. The point is that you can make journaling be whatever you want it to be. This activity should be an extension of yourself. So, if you like to draw, why not incorporate some illustrations? If you are more adept at typing, you can easily journal on the computer. In fact, you can even just record your ideas if you really don’t like to write.
The form isn’t the point of journaling. The process is the point. The more you are aware of the life you are living, the more you can enjoy it. And this enjoyment will lead to a more peaceful you.