Covid was a time of uncertainty that impacted everyone differently. Many people experienced some mental health challenges, and I was one of those people. Fearing for the well-being of my loved ones, not being able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and feeling like my college experience was being taken away from me really took its toll. I was getting worse and worse until my friend suggested I start journaling. I was skeptical, especially because I didn’t think I could stick with it. I also simply did not feel motivated enough to do it, but I pushed myself to start and the results truly changed my life. This is my guide to keeping up journaling and gaining the most you possibly can from it.

First, it is important to get into a routine with your journaling. I started doing it at the same time every day, in the morning when I woke up, and it eventually turned into a habit. Also, instead of feeling like a chore, it quickly became a joy and a great way to start out my day on the right foot. Everyone I know who has consistently stuck to journaling has created a schedule. Also, finding the method that is right for you is very important. Some people I know have journals with prompts written for them while others like a blank page where they can write whatever they want. Figuring out what process works best for you is so important to get the most out of it that you possibly can. So experiment a little and realize that there isn’t a right or wrong way to journal. You are unique and your journaling style should reflect that! 

Know that this process did not change my outlook overnight. When I began journaling, I honestly had a negative mindset, choosing to believe that it was not going to work for me. It was not until I actively changed my mindset and worked to gain the most out of the experience that I started to notice changes. My first step in doing this was to change what I wrote about. I began to start each journal entry with things that I was thankful for. Actively spending time thinking about all of the things that I have been blessed with in my life was so important for my personal growth. I quickly began to notice how the rest of my entries became more positive, more reflective, and I really started to gain a deeper understanding of myself. At the time I started this, my motivation was at an all-time low, but it began to increase exponentially. 

My experience with journaling has been one of the most positive things I have done for my personal wellbeing and growth. I recommend it to everyone, not just people facing struggles with their mental health. The list of proven benefits is long, including better cognitive function, memory, creativity, productivity, and so much more. Taking this step has begun my journey in actively working to be the best version of myself.