FAQ1: How do I start Journaling? Sounds like a lot of work!
Journaling is a work that you do with yourself. It is a process that involves communicating with self and bringing out what’s stuck and inspiring from your subconscious mind. It might seem overwhelming in the beginning but it is a powerful habit that grows like magic if you practice consistently. Read further this blog ‘Simple tips to start Journaling’ to get quick ideas to begin!
FAQ2: Is Journaling for me?
That’s a very good question!
You may be wondering:
- Why should I journal?
- What’s it going to do for me?
- What’s the pay-off?
- Will it be worth the effort?
Just for starters, journaling can help you:
- Overcome perfectionism
- Accept criticism gracefully
- Weather change confidently
- Unplug and refocus
- Build your creativity
- Refuel your fiction or poetry
Read the blog ‘Benefits of Journaling’ to dig deeper.
FAQ3: What does Journaling involve?
In simple words it is the most powerful form of self-communication and empowerment. The traditional ways in which we were taught writing in school has actually created an entire generation that does not enjoy writing. Journaling is different from traditional writing as most other forms of writing is done to present the information or text to someone else e.g. writing an email to your boss or writing an article to post on social media. Whereas Journal writing is a private practice. You could choose to share with the world later but essentially it is all directed towards self only. So, there is no judgement, no bias, no good/bad, no right/wrong in Journaling. What you journal has got nothing to do with someone else. Journal can range from two words to 2000 words. There is no limit really! All you need is a pen or paper, or your mobile phone / laptop / desktop. It is that simple!
You express to your journal because it is important for your well-being. Read more on the blog post ‘What is Journaling?’ for more clarity.
FAQ 4: What if I get bored of writing every day?
Journaling is a very enjoyable activity if we do it in the right spirit. It is definitely not school work so you must not treat it that way. It is absolutely OK if you do not journal once in a while or for a few days. But always find a way to go back to it. Try out different forms of Journaling. Read this post ‘Types of Journal Practice’ to explore more. Use different media – hand written journaling is the best form but using an app or just typing out your thoughts is also good. Try audio and video forms too. Use art materials, stickers or doodles at times. Once you bring a variety to your journal practice you will find it easier to come back to it faster.
FAQ5: When should I Journal?
Well you can journal anytime of the day. There is no clear rule for the best time to journal. It also depends on the type of journal practice you choose and your own time preference. If you are doing ‘morning pages’ it is usually done first thing in the morning. ‘Gratitude journal’ can be done just before going to sleep. If you use mobile applications then the entry can be done anytime of the day. If you are looking to ‘brain dump’ you simply need to find a paper and pen and write nonstop for 5 minutes. Bullet Journals requires your mindful attention and care for details and you could get engrossed in it for as much as you want. It all depends on you. Whether you give 2 minutes or 2 hours what is important is that it is your free choice and that you gain something from the writing experience.