In today's world, with so much constantly going on, it's so easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from our inner selves!

The good news is that journaling can be a powerful and accessible tool for self-discovery, reflection & growth.

Whether you're seeking clarity, or you need a safe space to express yourself, this beginner's guide will give you the tools needed to start your journaling journey.

Why Journal?

There are several well-documented benefits to journaling. Here are a few reasons to consider picking up a pen and paper:

• Journaling provides a space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions without judgment. This can help you understand yourself better & identify recurring patterns in your behavior.  https://amzn.to/3UW9rDF (Shadow Work Journal)
• Studies show that journaling can be an effective way to manage stress and anxiety. By expressing your anxieties on paper, you can gain perspective and release some of the emotional burden. https://amzn.to/49TMvJK (Anxiety Breakthrough Journal)
• Journaling is a great way to spark creativity & brainstorm solutions to problems. Unrestricted writing allows your mind to wander freely and explore new ideas and perspectives.
• Keeping a journal allows you to record precious memories and life experiences. You can look back and reflect on past mistakes and triumphs.

Getting Started:

Journaling doesn't require any special equipment or a specific format. All you need is a notebook (or even loose pieces of paper) and a pen that feels comfortable to write with. I have sooo many pretty pens in different colors just for journaling! I wouldn't steer you wrong, pretty pens matter!

Here are some tips to get you started:

• Start by setting small, achievable goals, like writing for 5-10 minutes a day. Consistency is key, so don't feel pressured to write a novel every day. https://amzn.to/4c9M4Np (Goals Journal)
• Choose a quiet, comfy space where you won't be interrupted. Whether it's first thing in the morning, before bed, or during your lunch break, find a time that fits your schedule & allows you to focus. Tell the kiddos to "shhh"! 😂
• Journaling is for you only!  Don't worry about grammar rules or spelling mistakes. Just let your thoughts flow freely and authentically.
• If you ever feel stuck, guided journaling prompts can be a great way to get your creative juices flowing. These prompts can be anything from "What are you grateful for today?" to "What is one challenge you're facing right now?"
• There are many different ways to journal. Some people prefer free-writing, while others like bullet points journaling or writing lists. Experiment & find the one that feels more natural and enjoyable for you.

Ready to Get Started?!

Remember, there's no right or wrong way to journal! The most important thing is to find an approach that works for you and stick with it. You might be surprised by the insights you gain & the positive impact it has on your life.

Are you looking for a dedicated space to begin? Check out my selection of (pretty!) journals, specially designed to inspire and empower your self-expression: https://amzn.to/3T1fwfF

I hope this blog post has encouraged you to embrace the power of journaling. Happy writing! ✍🏾

#telieshasharee #journaling