As someone who has been an avid journal-keeper since 8th grade, I know the struggle of keeping up with a regular journaling practice. Journaling has many benefits, including managing stress and processing emotions. If you do it right, your journal may just become your best friend. But, what do you do when you just don’t feel motivated to write?
Whether you’re burnt out, busy, or just exhausted, sometimes finding the time to journal can feel like another monumental task on your to-do list. Here are my tips for staying motivated to journal!
1. Invest in a nice journal
In my experience, you’re way more likely to want to write if you have a nice place to do it. So, treat yourself and find a journal that really speaks to you! Personally, I love finding new journals while on trips or spending time with friends so that every time I write, I can look back on fond memories. Think about it this way: these are your most precious inner thoughts and they deserve a beautiful home!
2. Set aside time to journal each day
Although journaling is a great way to manage stress, sometimes it’s the first thing we cut out when life gets hectic and busy. The best way I’ve found to combat this is to set aside a designated time to journal each day. Whether it’s the first thing you do when you wake up or the way you wind down at night, making journaling part of your routine is the perfect way to practice self-care.
3. Don’t feel pressured to write a certain way
Most importantly, keep in mind that this journal is for you. Whether you’re putting off journaling because you don’t feel inspired or because writing down every detail of your day sounds exhausting, remind yourself that this is your space. If you want to write a ten page rant about that professor you can’t stand, go for it! If all you have the energy for is a sentence about your current state of mind, that’s fine, too! Your journal is there to listen to what you have to say, whatever that may be.
