Journaling Three Ways

Plus tips and supplies recommendations ✍️

Of all my habits that help infuse and foster my creativity, journaling is my most valued. I was a big diary kid growing up, influenced by Doug Funnie and Harriet the Spy, with a lot of solo time on my hands as an only child. I’ve always had a lot of feelings that need somewhere to go, paired with high anxiety that needed some kind of release. While I’ve aged out of the puffy plastic diary with a heart shaped lock, the habit has grown up with me.

There are countless creative benefits that come from journaling. It’s a great way to work through an idea, to let out frustrations and disappointment, to clear out the cobwebs before you dive into a project. It can be a playground for your thoughts - a safe space to explore ideas and impulses before committing to them. It can be a useful tool for problem solving and goal setting.

Journaling can also be great for your health. I use it to manage my anxiety and stress levels, and it’s been proven to help with depression, support recovery, and improve your mood. It encourages self-reflection, helps regulate emotions, and has even proved helpful in lowering blood pressure.

There are so many different ways to journal, so I’m just going to highlight the three styles/methods that I personally use, along with tools and tips that I swear by. I hope this is an inspiring jumping off point for anyone who wants to cultivate a new journaling habit, or that it provides some insight for veteran journalers as well.