Why Everyone Should Keep a Journal — 4 Surprising Benefits

What do Albert Einstein, Simone Biles, Frida Kahlo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelle Obama all have in common? Each of these famous figures have kept a journal or diary to record their experiences, thoughts, or feelings.

From scientists to artists — and everyone in between — keeping a journal can be an important self-care practice. In fact, journaling can help you in the following ways:

• Achieve goals – When you use your journal to write down your goals, you can keep better track of your intentions. This will help you stay accountable and serve as a reminder of what you need to do to reach your goals.
• Improve writing and communication skills – Writing, like anything, improves with practice. And if you use a journal to express your thoughts and ideas, it can help improve your communication skills.
• Reduce stress and anxiety – Sometimes negative thoughts and emotions can run on a loop in our heads. This can be stressful when you’re dealing with a challenging situation. But if you stop and put your emotions down on paper, it can help you release negative thoughts from your mind.
• Increase self-awareness – Writing about your successes and your setbacks can help you learn from your experiences. A study of medical students showed that when they wrote about a training activity they were involved in, it helped them spot mistakes they made, see ways to improve, and feel more prepared for the future.

No matter which type of journal you decide to keep, remember there is no right or wrong approach. It’s all up to you. The simple act of taking the time to get in touch with your mind, body, and spirit is what’s truly important.

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Related to: 

• Mental Health