At the beginning of the semester, one of my professors mentioned we should be writing in a journal for his class every day. At first, I was hesitant to make time for this and skeptical that I would have something new and interesting to say every day. However, after following his advice, I noticed all of the benefits I’ve reaped from writing daily, and the benefits writing has provided for me throughout my whole life. I strongly recommend this exercise to everyone, particularly people needing a positive change or even a New Year’s Resolution!
1. It helps me keep track of my dreams.
In my opinion, dreams are important representations of the subconscious mind. Whenever I have an interesting dream, I write it down because it helps me interpret what I might be suppressing. Some of my dreams are also so random and entertaining that I don’t want to forget them!
2. It helps you remember good memories.
I’ve kept a journal since eighth grade. One of my favorite things to do in my spare time is flip through old journals and reminisce. It helps me put my current life into perspective when I can see how I dealt with circumstances in the past. Our lives are constantly changing, and it’s important to take time to appreciate all of the people and experiences we value. This act makes me feel more fulfilled and is a reminder of all the things I’m lucky for when I’m feeling down in the dumps.
3. It’s a way to work through your problems.
One of the most effective ways for me to make decisions is to write down my situation and the pros and cons of each potential outcome. This gives me a more concrete way to analyze my options and which is the best for me. Later on, I can look back and see how a situation unfolded to make better decisions in the future. Writing helps me strengthen my decision-making skills and become more confident while doing so. And on the plus side, if something doesn’t turn out so well, at least I have material to write about!
4. It’s therapeutic.
Writing is a harmless way for me to release my negative emotions and interpret what I am feeling. After a while, a journal starts to feel like an old friend that will keep all of your secrets. You never have to worry about holding back while you’re writing, because nobody has to see what you write except for you.
5. It improves creativity.
Ever since I’ve been writing daily, I’ve learned how to characterize concrete items in more abstract terms, use more poetic language, and think outside the box.
6. It improves writing skills.
Practice makes perfect! Writing daily has helped me improve my vocabulary, memory, and comfort level with different types of writing in general. I feel like a more dynamic thinker, and this flexibility in thinking is important for people in all walks of life and in all fields of study.
7. It increases self-awareness
As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “We’re attracted to what is already ours in secret.” Thus, what’s outside of us (what we choose to write about) mirrors what is inside of us. Writing can help us discover our interests, our innermost thoughts, our hopes, our struggles, our strengths and our weaknesses. It has guided me through life changes and helped me realize how I have matured into the woman I am, and how I want to continue to mature into a better version of myself.