3 things that journaling can’t do for you

When my entire business is based on the act of journaling, a post like this can seem like self-sabotage! But I thought it was important to cover this area, just to clear up those expectations that can end up causing a hurdle between you and the benefits that journaling can offer.

In my last post I shared key tips for first-time journaling, and the points raised also apply to those who may have tried journaling in the past, but would like to make it more of an intentional habit. Whether you are just starting out or see journaling as a second-nature, the following points are helpful to keep in mind as you get your thoughts down in writing:

1) Journaling can’t be relied on as your only source of self-care

When we find something that seems to work for us and provide us with a chance to unload mentally, of course this can be a true relief! Journaling has the potential to be a place where you can show up for yourself honestly, freely and wholeheartedly, and that is the ideal environment for you to connect with who you are and open yourself up to growth.

With that being said, you need to also recognise that journaling is a piece of your wider picture of self-care. If you are not taking care of yourself holistically, then expecting to be able to show up for yourself in this way will be harder to achieve. From your diet and exercise, to your social interactions and time spent doing the things that make you feel whole, these pieces of the puzzle come together with the act of journaling to create an experience that is strengthened by your lifestyle.

Think body, soul and mind. The goal is to nurture all of these areas to allow you to be your best self.

2) Journaling can’t provide you with all the answers

If only! And in no way is this meant to sound patronising! Getting your thoughts out of your head and onto paper is just one aspect of your wellbeing process. Maybe you find yourself looking back over the words you have written and wondering ‘what next?’ What do you do with all of this stuff that you have decided to unload onto these pages?

The answer, although one you may not want to hear, is entirely down to you! You get to choose what you do with your thoughts and feelings.

You get to sift through and decide what can stay right there within those pages, and what can be used as the catalyst to create real change in your life.

You also get to choose how you show up for yourself outside of your journaling sessions, and whether you make yourself a priority each day. Understand this - your journaling experience is exactly what you make it. No one else can get to know your thoughts and feelings better than you.

3) Journaling can’t be a substitute for professional help

This is an important point, and one that I can also speak from experience in sharing.

Without question, my journey through counselling has been the most pivotal experience of my life in learning to prioritise, care and love myself in all of the ways I need to.

It was also the reason I was finally able to unpack and deal with my stuff, freeing me up to be able to show up for myself in authentic ways. By no means was this an easy journey, but it was necessary for me, and journaling exists in my life as an extension of that journey.

If you are struggling, know that help is always available. Even if it involves talking to a trusted friend or family member before seeking out a professional, just know that there comes a time when you can’t keep the way you feel contained in pages without making sense of any issues that are keeping you from moving forward.

Journaling isn’t a magic wand over your life, but it can certainly turn out to be a healthy habit that continually reminds you of your own magic.

Join Pen Therapy for our upcoming live group journaling sessions online and choose a theme that suits your journaling goals. From self-love lessons to gratitude boost sessions, there is something for everyone with creative prompts to help guide your writing.