February 5, 2025
Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor
What would one think when they hear the word “journal?” Most think of diary entries they wrote as a child, others might remember writing stories, but as we get older, most forget how powerful and important journaling actually is. This pastime is typically seen as an old-fashioned activity, especially when it’s compared to our technologically advanced world. As many of us are busy college students, it can be hard to have time to process our lives. Journaling is a way for people to express themselves in a low-pressure environment. It offers a multitude of benefits that improve many aspects of our mental and emotional self.
The first of its numerous benefits is that journaling can help people’s emotional well-being. In times of constant distraction and change, one may suppress their feelings in order to get through the day, but this can lead to our emotions hitting all at once. When someone buries their emotions, it later surfaces as intense feelings of stress, anxiety and frustration. The intensity comes from the neglect one subconsciously chooses to take due to the overwhelming — and sometimes unstable — times in our lives. Instead of continually carrying one’s emotions, being weighed down by the burden of holding on, one needs to let go. Journaling emotions becomes a healthy outlet of release. Writing our emotions down will help in determining what’s truly important in our lives and allow us to let go of what no longer brings one purpose and happiness. There may be times where one will experience trying times and situations that may feel uncomfortable. Writing creates a safe and non-judgmental environment. It can be a way to completely process one’s feelings and get a fresh perspective for our future decisions.
The second reason is that journaling boosts creativity. Journaling encapsulates our emotions, dreams, daily activities and personal experiences on a page. This activity allows one to create a space that encourages the brain to think outside the box without allowing the voice of the inner critic to speak. When one is able to explore thoughts without worrying about structure or formality, then the creation of stories grows easier.
Taking time to journal helps to validate one’s feelings and release them. Whether one is looking to organize their thoughts, express oneself or track habits, journaling is an empowering tool. The choices are endless — all one needs is a pen and a notebook.
If one is stuck on where to start, here is a list of the different types of journaling one could participate in:
- Art journal
- Bullet journal
- Daily journal
- Dream journal
- Fitness journal
- Free writing journal
- Gratitude journal
- Memory journal
- Mood journal
- Morning journal
- Nature journal
- Reflective journal
- Travel journal
Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu
