by Aria Cian

Created on: July 15, 2008   Last Updated: July 18, 2008

The potential benefits of journaling are as numerous and varied as the journaling methods that can be employed. Writing in a journal can reduce stress, help solve complicated problems, assist in sorting out emotions, provide clarity of mind, improve cognitive health, or serve as a springboard for ideas and projects.

A journal is not simply a book or a diary. If used judiciously a journal can become an important part of your life and an essential tool of self-discovery. It is a device to uncover and reflect upon your most private thoughts, hopes and fears.

The first step to journaling is to choose a journal. It can have any size or structure, but you must be comfortable writing in it. When choosing a journal, choose one that you will enjoy writing in often. Your journal may take the form of a spiral notebook, a small diary, a sketch pad, a photo book, an online blog or anything else you can dream up. If you find that your journal is making your journaling experience unpleasant or difficult, do not hesitate to change it.

When initializing your journal you may want to abide by a certain structure or you may just start writing and see where it takes you. Most journaling veterans recommend that each entry have a date at the very least. You may also choose to title entries, record your location, include coding, or organize into sections. The only particular guideline to follow is that the structure of your journal should never interfere with the writing of the journal.

When beginning journaling, many will be unsure about what to write or where to start. Remember, this is your journal and you are only writing for yourself. Write whatever you feel like writing, there should be no restrictions on your self-expression. If you are having trouble beginning, write about what happened to you that day and let the words come as they will.

Ignore any tendencies to edit your journal, whether during the writing process or after. If you make a spelling mistake, ignore it. Do not erase or cross out words and never worry about jumping in and out of topics.

You should begin each journaling session out of your own desire and free will. If it begins to become a burden or a subject of guilt when neglected your journal will not serve its purpose of helping to mine the vast reaches of your creative psyche.

The important issue is to keep the words flowing. It does not matter if the entries are not literary masterpieces. If you get stuck you can choose to use a picture or quote as a launch pad for an entry. Let your stream of consciousness guide your pen to discover what treasures dwell in the inner most recesses of your mind.

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