Four Good Reasons NOT to Journal (And One Reason You Might Want to)
Life coaches, mental health practitioners, sisters, and friends are always singing the praises of journaling as a way to improve and maintain your mental health. But let's be real, not everyone is on board with the journaling craze. Here are four good reasons why you might want to skip the journaling bandwagon:
1. Life in the Fast Lane: Too Busy to Breathe
If your schedule is packed to the brim with work, kids, and many responsibilities, finding time to journal might seem like an impossible luxury. Who needs self-reflection when there's social media scrolling, Amazon shopping, and binge-watching your favorite shows? Journaling can wait, right?
2. Super Self-Aware: Insight Overload
Perhaps you're so in tune with your internal landscape that the thought of gaining more insight or engaging in personal introspection is laughable. You wake up in the morning crystal clear and motivated, armed with an incredible toolbox to conquer your goals. Progress tracking and setbacks processing? Not on your agenda.
3. Perfectly Imperfect Life: No Stress, No Anxiety
Your life is a masterpiece, exactly the way you want it. Stress and anxiety are foreign concepts, and the emotional catharsis of journaling is simply unnecessary. Why fix what isn't broken? You're living your best life without the need for a journaling escape.
4. Naturally Grateful: No Practice Needed
Expressing gratitude is second nature to you. No need for a structured gratitude practice; you naturally radiate an improved sense of well-being. Researchers may highlight the benefits, but you've got it covered without needing pen and paper.
The One Compelling Reason to Journal
Now, here's the flip side. If you find yourself stuck in a loop of repeating mistakes and defeating stories, a journal might be your secret weapon. Whether it's dissecting why your friend didn't call or challenging those persistent weight loss myths, journaling can be a game-changer.
My journey into daily journaling began during the monk-like days of COVID isolation. Inspired by Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way, I committed to writing three pages every morning. It took years of aspiration, but now, over three years later, I haven't looked back.
Start Small: Your Path to Peace of Mind
If the idea of journaling feels overwhelming, start small. Jot down three things you're grateful for, track your emotions, or outline your short-term goals. For the more artistically inclined, explore bullet journaling or dive into Cameron's inspirational book. For those of you less interested in self-reflection, consider it data collection for the experiment of your life.
If you're still hesitant but desire peace of mind, let's talk. Schedule a discovery call, and we can explore how journaling—or other strategies—can lead you to the mental space you crave. Embrace the power of journaling, or not—it's your story to write.