by Kim Jackson of PeaceLoveandPrettyThings
I’ve kept some form of a diary since I was probably about 8 years old–whether it was prompted, like my Ramona Quimby Diary; or a simple notebook where I jotted down scattered thoughts. I still keep a journal as an adult, and though I don’t write in it as often as I would like, I always come back to it eventually. It’s the perfect sounding board for ideas, keeper of secrets I don’t dare yet reveal to anyone else and reminder about dreams deferred.
Here are some of the reasons that you might also want to keep a journal, if you don’t already:
– To chronicle your thoughts and help assemble them in a way that makes sense for you
– To help you sort out any unfamiliar or negative feelings
– It’s a judgment free zone; it lets you get it all out without interrupting or giving advice, allowing you to figure out what’s right for you
– To keep track of your growth, as well as any changes you’ve gone through; and manage your goals year over year (or weekly, or monthly)
– It’s a great place to conduct self-development exercises or self-evaluations. I still refer back to my 31 Day Reset journal from over a year ago because it houses so many of the wonderful discoveries I made about my values (learn more about 31 Days to Reset Your Life at the Happy Black Woman blog).
– To jot down notes, mantras or favorite quotes; or clip inspirational photos
– To draft blog entries, poems, shorts stories, sketches etc.
– To write letters to loved ones, or people you need to forgive as a form of closure
This is certainly not an exhaustive list, but hopefully a good amount of reasons to get you started.
Do you already keep a journal? In what ways does having it benefit you?
PLPT is co-authored by Kim Jackson and GG Renee with the intention of connecting with women through messages of self-love and personal freedom. We believe that true beauty starts on the inside and radiates outward, so maintaining emotional health and balance should be an essential part of every woman’s beauty regimen. We use this platform as an opportunity to share our personal experiences, and to help other women who are seeking guidance to find their own truths and live fabulously.
I keep a journal, but I only take note of what i really really like and what my hair seems to hate. For example, using Garnier Fructis' leave-in then Eco-Styler is a big no- no for me. It left my hair white and gummy and sticky and eughh. no bueno. So I made a note of that. But I do have a hard time penciling in every new product or product combinations I try 'cause I tend to forget. Which is the whole point of keeping a journal in the first place, lol.
I do keep a journal, but I don't write in it every day. It seems that its only for when things are going bad in my life that I write in it & it shouldn't just be for those moments. So I'm going to try harder to write in it every day or at least share the good & bad moments.
I have always kept one since about 10 yrs old. Yes I use it for poetry but also as a way to write down my frustrations, thoughts and worries. It pretty much allows me to keep everything from being "pent up" inside. It also stops me from unloading on friends b/c despite how close we are I don't need them to know everything..at least not immediately lol
What's up with the bad spelling. Second article with a misspelling in the title.
Am I the only one bothered by the incorrect spelling of Why as "Whi" in the title?
I haven't journaled since grade school. Perhaps the start of keeping a journal wouldn't be so bad. This gives me a great idea to start again. Sometimes it is difficult to sort out your thoughts and ideas and this might just do the trick. Uhmmm…..a thought indeed!
Omgsh I keep a journal/diary since I was eight years old to write down my feelings from what I went through when I was younger to keep from harming myself. I got the idea from Oprah she says she keeps a journal and writes in it everyday. I also started to write my feeling into poetry I love poetry Keats and others I loved. I always want my parents or children to remember me through my writings when I die. I still write in a journal everyday and I will continue until my last days.
Megan Montgomery
I often times start a journal and find it difficult to continue. I start with the very best intentions and then life takes over and I put it aside for other "pressing" issues. This post has encouraged me to try again.
I have the same journaling story! I've been journaling since I was very young. Sometimes I write more and sometimes less. I suggest it for everyone! It is a great way to connect with yourself.
Just joined the 31-Day Reset Program & can't wait to get started! Love the website (happyblackwoman.com). I plan to order the complete workbook. Journaling seems like a great outlet!