With midterms looming around the corner and the general stress of college weighing us down, I think I speak for every college student when I say that finding an activity that could help us become less anxious and more at peace, would be really helpful.
Well, lucky for you, I have an activity that’s very easy to implement into your schedule, no matter how crazy it is, and that activity is journaling.
So, without further ado, here are five definitive reasons why you should open your notebook and scribble your thoughts down everyday:
1. You’ll feel less stressed
Perhaps the most important reason why we should journal is that it makes us feel less stressed. Journaling is a very cathartic and therapeutic activity that allows us to express, in words, our problems and anxieties instead of bottling them up in our heads. By taking a few minutes everyday to write down what has been stressing you out, you’ll feel more confident in tackling the problem head on now that you’ve acknowledged it into words.
2. You’ll become more aware of emotions
In addition, journaling allows us to express our emotions and become more self-aware. In theory, we shouldn’t only feel compelled to write when we’re stressed, but also when we’re happy, confused, or even sad. Practicing writing out your emotions and feelings is a great activity in promoting better mental health, which is very important for your overall wellbeing.
3. You’ll gain closure from situations that have been bothering you
Whether you just went through a breakup, had a fight with a friend, or stressed about a poor exam grade, writing can help you attack the issue head on and release the anxiety and other negative, looming feelings that come with it. The more comfortable you are with being vulnerable in your entries, the more comfortable you’ll become with yourself as a person. Sometimes, it can be very hard to write about these situations depending on how serious they were, but I can promise you through personal experience that, by taking the time write out your feelings towards the situation, you’ll l feel better and will gain some sort of closure.
4. You’ll become more accountable towards your goals
In contrast, journaling doesn’t always have to be a serious and feelings-oriented activity. Writing down fitness or academic goals are also great things to journal about. When we write down our goals and aspirations, we’re much more inclined to pursue them and adopt a more motivated mentality. These kind of journaling activities keep us on track and hold us accountable.
5. You’ll feel happier
Lastly, and most importantly, journaling will make you a happier person. It’s a great way to unplug from the internet, unwind or start your day, and realign yourself with how you’re feeling. Whether you just jot down a few things about your day, make a list of the things and people you are thankful for, or make a plan on how to achieve your fitness goals, journaling will help you feel less stressed and more in-touch with your emotions, things that you value, and prospects you have for your future.
And the best thing about journaling is that even five minutes will make a difference, so why not pick up your pen today and write a few things down?
