I’m all about living in the moment, truly. And yes, my camera or phone often comes out for a quick snap, maybe ten seconds or less, to capture a scene. But here’s the thing: I’ve discovered that journaling, which for me absolutely includes those photos, is a powerful way to hold onto memories. It’s my personal tool to make those fleeting moments feel more tangible, more real, than just a digital post. I actually started my journaling journey way back in elementary school, in simple diary form, and it’s evolved so much since then. Join me as I share why I believe every bit of life is worth documenting.
Creative Self-Expression
Journaling itself is a fantastic exercise for my love of writing and art appreciation. When I put pen to paper, it unlocks a different flow of words, allowing me to describe my experiences freely. And through art journaling, whether it’s sketching, doodling, or even incorporating photos and little bits of ephemera like ticket stubs, food wrappers, or notes, I get to explore and express my unique style. These visual elements don’t just add flair; they enrich the memory, creating a multi-sensory record of the moment.
Keeping the Best Memories I Can Never Take Back
Life has certainly thrown its share of sorrows my way. I’ve leaned on journaling to document both the highs and the lows, from the passing of my mom to getting married, the passing of my dad, and so much more. But it’s not just the tough times; I also make sure to capture my happy moments. While I have past vlogs with my parents, writing about our togetherness feels even more deeply meaningful. Thanks to journaling, I’ve been able to preserve cherished gift tags, written cards from family and friends, other memorabilia, invitations, and thank you notes – all those tangible bits that bring happy memories flooding back.
Enjoying the Pockets of Happiness
I love journaling about the little things: the cozy café we visited, the delicious food we ate, the refreshing drinks, and the wonderful company we shared during an experience. It’s truly comforting to romanticize these pockets of happiness, especially amidst life’s inconsistencies and unpredictability. It reminds me that even when things get tough, there are always reasons, big or small, that keep me going.
Try Journaling!
It’s so much more than just writing; it’s a journey of personal growth, development, and truly gives life more meaning. This isn’t just a feeling; science and the wisdom of influential figures back it up.
Psychologist James Pennebaker’s research on expressive writing shows that regularly journaling about your thoughts can significantly reduce stress and improve well-being. It’s a powerful way to process emotions and gain clarity.
Another example was by Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way, champions “Morning Pages” – a daily, stream-of-consciousness journaling practice – as fundamental for unlocking creativity and self-discovery. I personally tried this out and it opened up new ideas for me and just brain dumping different thoughts.
For those seeking structure and productivity alongside reflection, Ryder Carroll’s Bullet Journal method offers a flexible system for tracking, planning, and journaling, helping you organize your thoughts and take intentional action.
So, to my readers here, whether you’re looking for emotional release, creative inspiration, or a more organized approach to your days, try journaling. It’s a simple yet profound practice that offers a unique path to understanding yourself more, embracing your journey, and ultimately, giving your life richer meaning.
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