1. Write about little things that make you happy
Do not wait for big moments to pen them down. As much as it is important to celebrate the big events in our lives, like that birthday or anniversary, or that job promotion, it is important to note that these big events can only happen occasionally. So, waiting for that big event to happen, means lesser number of reasons to allow yourself to be happy. To ease off the pressure on yourself and expectations from your life or those around you, learn to find joy and happiness in everyday experiences like enjoying a warm bath, spending the day with your best friend, or spending time watching your favorite TV show. Writing about things that make us happy is a sure shot way to lift your spirits.
2. You may not have anything important to say
You could write just about anything: how you are feeling, experiences through the day, or something fun or unusual like the new song you heard on radio or some mundane activity happening around you that is driving you crazy.
3. Track your feelings every day
Journaling is all about writing down your thoughts and feelings to understand them more clearly. If you struggle with stress, depression, or anxiety, keeping a journal can be a great idea to help you gain control of your emotions and improve your mental health. Writing about how you are feeling helps to take the load off your brain and helps to identify what’s causing that stress or anxiety. Once you’ve identified your triggers for stress, you could actively work to address these triggers and ultimately your stress.
If you find yourself at a loss of words to describe your feelings, choosing a journal with feelings tracker can be immensely helpful. My Book gratitude journal by Grateful World helps you to track your feelings every day, for 26 weeks. This helps to inculcate a good habit and helps you to get a better understanding of your emotions and stress triggers.
4. Self-Care is important
Make sure to everyday do at least one activity that makes you happy or lifts your spirits. ‘My Book’ gratitude journal by Grateful World has a list of several such activities. Make sure you tick off some items listed in 'Self-care tracker' every day.
5. Gratitude practice
I cannot even begin to stress on how important it is to acknowledge the good that is already there in our lives. The little things that we take for granted: our parents’ love, food on the table (or our tiffin box), the rains, the air we breathe, our good health- they all deserve our gratitude. In your journal, try as much as possible to mention at least one thing you are grateful for each day. Trust me the more you write about what you are grateful for, the more you will have, to be grateful for.
6. There is no need to perfect your language
Since it is your journal, you need not focus on the ‘how’ but ‘what’ you are writing. There is no perfect way to express yourself. You can even use photos, stickers, signs, emojis, abbreviations or anything that works for you. Remember: your thoughts are much more important than the grammar.
7. You do not have to write every day
While it is a good practice to journal everyday, it is absolutely fine if you have been too busy to journal on a daily basis. You can assimilate your thoughts any time during the week. Try writing regularly or at least once every week. Even writing at least once a month in your journal can help you take the load off your emotions.
We do hope these little tips can help you to start journaling and sustain the wonderful habit for your mental health and well being. If you found this article useful or have any more tips for journaling, do write to us.
With love,
Grateful World
(Blog post by Shweta Shrivastava)
Comments