How To Start Journaling: 13 Practical Tips For Beginners -

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Have you ever wondered how to start journaling but felt overwhelmed by a blank page? Well, you’re not alone!

Journaling regularly and effectively is a big goal of mine for this year. I struggled tremendously with journaling in the past, so I thought, why not share my tips with you?

There are many benefits to journaling, such as:

Improves mental health
Boosts self-awareness
Enhances problem-solving skills
Improves mental clarity
And so much more

Without further ado, here are 13 practical tips on how to start journaling.

This post might contain affiliate links i.e. I will get a small commission if you purchase an item through them. Your support means the world to me ♥.

How to Start Journaling as a Beginner

1. Keep your journal close.

Simplify the process.

I keep my journal on my desk, so I see it every day and it’s at arm’s length. Another great spot is on your bedside table.

2. Don’t get caught up in aesthetics.

Oh my goodness! My journal is so messy, lol. There is nothing aesthetic about it. Social media is flooded with pretty journals, and I’d love for mine to look the same. But, in reality, I simply don’t have the time.

Maybe one day. For now, I’ll stick to my messy scribbles – they work just as well.

3. Set journaling days

You don’t have to journal every day. I know, shocker!

Designate certain days of the week to journal – that will help you build a habit.

4. Track it on a habit tracker

While we’re on the topic of habits, I use a monthly habit tracker to keep on top of my journaling. It’s so satisfying to look back at the month and see most of the blocks filled in.

Here’s the habit tracker I use (spoiler – it’s one of my own designs, lol).

5. Make it an experience rather than a task

Unplug from technology, find a quiet place, make a cup of brew, and go outside to journal. Treat it like a main character moment instead of just a task.

Journaling is a soul-nourishing experience. Get the most out of it by embracing it as an adventure.

6. Use journal prompts

Blank paper can feel overwhelming – I get it. Sometimes, we just don’t have anything to write about. Back when I was in high school, I always thought my life wasn’t interesting enough to journal. Boy, was I wrong about journaling!

Use journal prompts for those days when you’re unsure of what to write. I have a collection of journal prompts on my blog. You can start by exploring these:

7. Never just write when you’re down

I made this mistake up until a year ago! The result was that when I read it back, my life seemed incredibly sad (even though I know I have good memories from that time).

Jot down the good times too. Don’t use your journal only to sort through difficult moments in your life.

Here’s a bonus life lesson: Life is filled with ebbs and flows. By journaling about both, you’ll capture your victories.

8. Be Unfiltered

Your journal is for your eyes only. Be completely honest and raw when you write. If you sugarcoat, you’re only lying to yourself.

Be unfiltered.

9. Every entry doesn’t have to be a page long

I used to think I had to write a full page for each entry. It would look neater, right? Probably. However, neatness isn’t our focus when journaling.

Most of my entries are a paragraph or two. The goal is to untangle the thoughts in my head and capture memories. I’m not writing poetry here, lol.

10. There is no wrong way to journal

Let me tell you something – reading a bunch of blog posts won’t give you the magic solution to journal perfectly because there isn’t one.

Just start. As with everything in life, starting is the best way to learn and create your own formula.

11. Use bullet points

Okay, are paragraphs too overwhelming? Then use bullet points.

You can jot down a few thoughts in list format. Don’t overthink it.

12. Start with one sentence

Another option is to begin with just one sentence a day. This way, you can cultivate a habit and create a routine without feeling overwhelmed.

This nicely pairs with journal prompts if you want to combine the two tips on how to start journaling.

13. Digital journals vs. paper journals

Which one should you choose? Once again, there’s no wrong option. Pick the one that feels easiest for you.

Remember, you want to make the process effortless. Whether you prefer Goodnotes or a standard paperback, the choice is entirely yours. I suggest sticking to one format to keep all your thoughts in one place.

Conclusion

That wraps up my practical tips on how to start journaling. I hope you find something helpful in this article. If you have any other tips, please leave them in the comments below.

Side note lol: Do you have a collection of notebooks but don’t know what to do with them? Check out this list of 33 ideas on how to fill up blank notebooks!

May this journaling journey bring you healing, clarity, and peace of mind.

Don’t forget to join the family for weekly updates, access to my free resource library, and an exclusive 15% discount on all my Etsy products as a thank-you for subscribing!

Have a great day wherever you are in the world!

Love, Steph ♥

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How To Start Journaling: 13 Practical Tips For Beginners