Build a journalling habit: 3 tips to get started (or start again)

I love the idea of journalling, but it can be difficult to start. I know all the benefits (getting new perspectives, managing stress, improving levels of anxiety) and journalling does actually help with all of them for me. But I still find it tricky to sit down and put pen to paper. If you’re in the same boat, I do have a few tips that have helped me:

1. Find a time that works for you

For me it’s early in the morning, when the house is quiet and before I’ve got embroiled in the day. It helps me to notice how I’m feeling and think about what I might need to look after myself. Your perfect time might be the evening, to help you process the day. Or you might even find that lunchtime works best for some reflection

2. Discover your style

There are so many different ways to journal - from handwriting your thoughts in a book to using a digital platform. Voice notes work really well for some people and others find they connect better with visual mood boards. Try different sorts of journalling - and know that if one way doesn’t work for you, there’s bound to be another that does

3. Be kind to yourself

Expressing your inner thoughts can feel a bit exposing. Try not to judge yourself or what you’re journaling, instead notice what comes up and think about what could help you to care for yourself. It could be something as simple as recognising that you’ve had a tough day. Or it might be that you realise that something isn’t working for you any more and you need a change. Whatever comes up, try to meet it with kindness.

We all deserve to live a great life, but what great looks like changes over time and sometimes we find ourselves stuck living in a way that isn’t right for us anymore. I support women to live a happier life: through prioritising their wellbeing and doing more of what they love.

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