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4 Ways Journaling Can Lead To A More Peaceful You

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4 ways journaling can lead to a more peaceful youIs 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.

 

 

Why It’s Important To Make Time For Yourself

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why it's important to make time for yourselfWe’ve all heard the cliché that just as it’s important to put your own oxygen mask on first in an airplane so is it important to take care of yourself first in life. This cliché exists because it is true, yet it is easier said than done.

Think of yourself as the foundation of a building

It may not be glamorous, but the foundation of a building needs to be strong; otherwise, everything will crumble. Often a personal foundation may start by being strong, but over time can weaken. As a result, cracks can appear in the building itself. The reaction may be to try to spend time repairing the building, but what really needs to be done is strengthen the foundation.

Invest your time wisely

It can be hard to think of time as something to invest in. Money is logical, but time is finite and hard to find more of. You can think that you aren’t able to make time for yourself because you are too busy with everything else. But if you invest in yourself first, then the busyness of life can become more manageable, and maybe even more efficient.

Make time for yourself with both small and large blocks of time. Daily, find 5 to 10 minutes that are just for you. Sip a cup of coffee without looking at your smart phone. Instead, savor the smell and taste of each sip. Relax in a bubble bath at the end of the day instead of an efficient shower. Go for a neighborhood walk after dinner instead of immediately turning on the TV.

For longer blocks of time, plan them in advance so that your commitment is set in stone. Book a day at the spa for a massage. Join a book club that meets every month. Go to the art gallery and get lost in the beauty. Take the time to breathe and enjoy life in all its glory.

Be vocal

It can be hard to make time for yourself if you have a family. Children and spouse’s needs can seem immediate and they are often the first tended to. But if you need more time for yourself, don’t be afraid to speak up. Let everyone know what you need. It can seem selfish at first, especially with children, but ultimately it will set a good example for them. This shows that everyone needs some alone time and that different interests should be encouraged. It also will make you a better, more relaxed parent. It will refocus yourself to know that you are more than just a label. Rather, you are a person, and you are capable.