Article and Graphics Design by Shabnam Deeba,
Creatorpreneur and Founder at Co create with Diva
an Impact-driven Media and Communications Expert in the Development Communication Sector in Bangladesh, Wellbeing and Spiritual Content Strategist, and Certified Digital Marketing Strategist.
How Journaling Transformed My Emotional Landscape
‘Be guided by feeling alone. We are only simple mortals, subject to error. Therefore, listen to the advice of others, but follow only what you understand and can unite within your own feelings. Beauty in art is truth bathed in an impression received from nature. I am struck when seeing a particular place.’
I have always found solace in expressing myself through painting and writing. It comes naturally to me, and I always make time for it. The value that I derive from writing and illustrating my thoughts is immeasurable.
It’s a form of expression that satisfies me deeply. I was first introduced to the idea of expressing my experiences through stories I read when I was younger. One particular story that stood out to me was about a little girl who used to chronicle her life and emotions in a personal diary. It felt like a whispered secret to me, and I couldn’t resist the urge to do the same.
Ever since then, writing has become an integral part of my life, and I am grateful for the peace it brings me. My diary journey began with everyday tales. I’d spill the beans about waking up at the crack of dawn, my mom’s stern morning pep talks, and the mind-numbing boredom of math class. School escapades filled the pages too, a playground for my thoughts.
The catch, though, is that keeping a notebook wasn’t just a way to keep track of things. Actually, my diary became a close friend and the keeper of many deep and dark secrets. I began a journey of self-discovery with each passing word. Picture it: each diary entry was like a miraculous mirror, reflecting my inner world, a blank canvas anxiously waiting to absorb the palette of my feelings. This routine served as a rock for me when life got too complicated.
The soothing sound of a pen scratching across paper still brings me comfort, even as an adult trying to make sense of life. I still keep a journal in which I write about my daily life, my thoughts, and my hopes and dreams.
Looking back on this fantastic adventure that began with the words in a children’s book, I can see tha keeping a notebook has been more than just a routine for me. When I write, I find myself fully immersed in every emotion. It’s a way to uncover the rich fabric of my life, page by page.
Journaling is the indelible ink of my own experiences, the key to uncovering the mysteries of existence.In the pages of my past, a chapter tells the tale of a severe childhood illness that stole my handwriting. For countless years, the inkwell of my life ran dry, and I could not craft a single word. But, as life’s tempests raged around me, I clung to my determination, finding the strength to weather those storms and emerge anew.
Now, the story takes an exciting twist. Recently, I’ve rekindled the art of journaling, armed with the wisdom I’ve gained from that tumultuous journey.
Although Daily Diary Writing and Journaling share similarities, they differ in their purpose and format.
Journaling is like taking small steps toward a lifetime of wisdom. When I put my emotions on paper, I believe the Universe guides me while I travel the road of life. In essence, writing broadens my experience, perspective, insight, and sense of self-worth. It helps me become more empathetic towards myself and others.
In the whirlwind of our fast-paced, distraction-ridden world, amidst the constant hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s all too common to lose track of our inner essence and the cherished dreams we hold close to our hearts. Y
et, fear not, for there exists a straightforward yet remarkably potent tool that can guide you back to clarity, rekindle your inner wisdom, and pave the way to a fulfilling life: embracing the art of journaling. This isn’t just about jotting down words; it’s a voyage into self-unearthing, mindfulness, and a wellspring of inspiration.
Origins and Varieties of Journaling:
The roots of journaling run deep, spanning across ages and diverse cultures. Its inception can be traced back to the 10th century when Japanese nobles initiated the practice of keeping “pillow books” to jot down their musings and insights, marking the pioneering chapter of journaling. Concurrently, Chinese scholars also joined the movement, maintaining “jottings” to chronicle their daily escapades and engage in introspection.
During the Renaissance, European scholars and thinkers embraced journaling to document their findings and contemplations. These early journals were a melting pot of scientific observations, philosophical ponderings, and personal anecdotes, setting the stage for the multifaceted tapestry of journaling we enjoy today.
In the 20th century, journaling underwent a transformation, taking on a brand-new role by dishing out mental health benefits through personal reflection. Fast forward to 2013, Ryder Carroll rolled out bullet journaling, a system that fuses mindfulness and productivity, allowing you to tailor your journal to your unique needs.
This system breaks down tasks and objectives into concise bullet points, offers calendar customization, and sets you up with progress trackers, all so you can tweak things to match your individual preferences. Bullet journaling is all the rage for clearing out the mental clutter, getting your act together, and staying mindful. It’s a game-changer for boosting productivity and life management, catering to students, professionals, and goal-oriented individuals.
Let me take you on a journey through the world of gratitude journaling. For the past year, like clockwork, as the sun peeks over the horizon and I wake up, my inner voice chimes in,
“Thank you, God.
Thank you, my beautiful Angels.
Thank you, Universe.”
With each utterance, a wave of incredible joy washes over my mind, body and soul, setting the tone for the day with an exhilarating zeal.
You see, as I embrace these moments of thankfulness, I stand ready to tackle any challenge that comes my way. It’s as if I’ve discovered a secret source of strength, a reminder that I’m not navigating life’s twists and turns on my own. No, I’m part of a grander scheme, a cosmic collaboration where God, the Angels, and the Universe have my back.
Dream journaling is like safeguarding your dreams in a special bedside notebook. Whenever you dream, jot down the details: events, emotions, odd occurrences, and spot recurring themes. This illuminates your emotions, thoughts, and goals, fostering personal growth, improving mental health, igniting creativity, sharpening problem-solving skills, and tracking progress. It’s a priceless tool for profound self-reflection and self-understanding.
In the 1980s, Dr. James Pennebaker’s research unearthed a powerful discovery: a mere 15-to-30-minute journaling session could work wonders. Back in those days, public schools jumped on the bandwagon, introducing journals, often known as “dialogue” or “response” journals, into English classes and the broader curriculum.
These journals nurtured students’ critical thinking skills and gave teachers the means to offer tailor-made feedback. While the primary aim was educational, it turned out that when students pondered academic questions, they often stumbled upon enlightening insights into their emotional well-being. Many students experienced a wave of relief when they could vent their worries and complex emotions on paper.
One recurring sentiment shared by avid journal keepers is that letting their thoughts and emotions flow onto paper grants them much-needed mental and emotional clarity. What’s more, there’s rock-solid scientific evidence that the solace derived from writing is not merely a figment of the imagination.
Dr. James Pennebaker, a Texas-based researcher, conducted studies that established a direct link between writing about challenging emotions or events for just 20 minutes daily over several days and a bolstered immune system. Dr. Pennebaker’s research indicates that this writing ritual directly fortifies the body’s resilience to stress and its ability to ward off illness.
Following the Pennebaker studies making waves, the medical and therapeutic communities delved headfirst into the realm of journal writing as an all-encompassing, non-medical avenue for well-being. In 1985, Kathleen Adams, a psychotherapist based in Colorado and the mastermind behind The Center for Journal Therapy, launched workshops designed to dish out tools for self-discovery, unleashing creativity, and enriching everyday lives.
Her “journal toolbox,” loaded with writing techniques, provided a means to tailor a specific life challenge with a particular writing method to address it. She rolled out her inaugural book, “Journal to the Self: 22 Paths to Personal Growth,” in 1990.
Now, let’s talk about how the practice of journaling can create magic in your life for the better.
After navigating the twists and turns of life, as I commit to daily journaling, I hope to uncover profound insights and divine guidance as if engaged in a conversation with the Universe, my trusted counselor. The essence of daily journaling lies in the quest for wisdom and clarity as I extend my reach to the universe or my inner strength in search of answers to my most pressing challenges.
Asking questions and putting my thoughts on paper can help me establish a direct connection with the world. Whether I believe in the cosmic influence of the universe, a higher presence, or the depths of my own mind, writing in a diary is the key to accessing this vast repository of knowledge.
Get your thoughts in order, think about them, and watch your inner self blossom.
Keeping a journal provides you with the opportunity to freely express yourself. It’s a space where you can sort out your tangled thoughts, monitor your progress, and gain a deeper understanding of your personal growth journey. The written word possesses a magic that resonates with us, aiding in our quest to make sense of our lives.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to journaling; it’s about the act of writing, the regularity of reflection, and the sense of well-being it fosters. When you journal, it serves as a mirror reflecting your innermost thoughts, emotions, and individuality.
Don’t be afraid to let your creativity flow.
Journal art goes beyond traditional diary writing, visually capturing your life. Thoughts and ideas flow freely in this place, which is perfect for letting your imagination flow. People can play with colors, shapes, and feelings there, which can lead to fun shocks.
Oh!
I just found myself lost in memories of my childhood once again. I had a unique inclination to blend the arts of drawing and writing. I used to incorporate visual elements to enhance my written work. Simply put, as I wrote on one side, I sketched precisely what I was describing on the opposite side of the page.
The Role of Exploration in Fostering Creative Thinking
Don’t worry about making mistakes; your journal is a place to try out new things, ideas, and ways of doing things. It’s not a test for college or a job; it’s a playground. You can grow and be more creative by taking these risks. They can help you push the limits of your art, find new ways to think, and get better at what you do.
Refresh Your Creative Fire with Journaling
Writing serves as a space for recording thoughts and ideas, as well as igniting new ones. Every blank page in your journal presents an opportunity to craft something fresh, swiftly, and rewarding. This practice helps keep your mind sharp and might even inspire your next significant project. If you’re struggling to generate ideas, a quick review of your journal could provide the boost you need.
Transform Your Life Through Self-Awareness and Satisfaction
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed?
Try journaling!
Writing or drawing your thoughts in a journal helps you focus on the present and cultivates mindfulness and happiness. The repetitive motion of art-making, such as drawing, painting, or collaging, can help you forget your troubles and enter a meditative state. With less stress and more contentment, you can lead a happier and healthier life.
Start journaling today!
Your Life’s Memories Stored Safely Away
Your journal is an endless vault for your thoughts, never running out of space. It’s a treasure trove of useful ideas and a tool to grasp the present moment. By recording your thoughts, memories, and artistic creations, you can accumulate valuable knowledge for future use. It serves as your personal time capsule, documenting the evolution of your identity over the years.
Finally, after all the twists and turns in my life, I feel a strong bond to my childhood when I write in my journal again. My feelings and thoughts are much more organized as a result. No one should pass up the chance to uncover their own path of the spirit and so find greater happiness in life. It’s a bridge to your inner self, a stream of inspiration, and a treasury of memories.
Don’t wait another second to begin your journaling journey and leverage the great potential inside you.