Journaling Introduced Me to Writing
The one habit you should start in 2024
A month ago, my piece “Write What Disturbs You” went viral here on Medium — by my standards, at least. 9K claps in less than two months only reaffirmed my belief about the universal magic of journaling.
The number of comments I received from people telling me I inspired them to get back to journaling or how journaling has been a source of healing and comfort to them left me in awe. People who have never journaled confessed that they are willing to try, taking my article as a sign to do just that.
When I wrote my piece, I wanted people to write when they were upset as a cathartic activity. I did not think journaling would be discussed at length in the comments.
A Backstory
I have collected diaries and journals over the years and ever since I was a child. Journaling always felt right and good. It introduced me to writing and instilled in me a dream of becoming a writer turned author.
I am not an author yet, but hopefully, I am on my way to becoming one.
And while I keep a physical journal (I designed my own), I have grown accustomed to writing via digital tools. I have a habit of pulling up a notion page or my notes app — writing an essay worth of thoughts when I’m in the mood to reflect, want to express gratitude, or feel upset.
The results?
- When I’m in the mood to reflect — I gain a great understanding of how I am feeling. I end the session feeling balanced and centered.
- When I’m expressing gratitude — I gain a surge of positive emotions having listed my blessings and expressed thankfulness.
- When I’m upset — I gain clarity over the root cause, lowering my cortisol levels, managing a deep sigh of relief, and opting for a level-headed approach to my struggles.
2021
In December 2021, mid-COVID, my greatest passion project came to life. I launched my brand Wise & Soul —selling my companion journal.
The brand is a co-creation I share with my husband. He handles the technical (his strong asset), while I manage the creative (my strong asset).
It is no surprise that we launched when we did and why journaling specifically.
I was at home more, contemplating my life, career, the world, and everything in between.
I wrote to process and to reflect.
I wrote when I was sad and when I was happy.
For 2024, I am launching digital journals to reflect my updated approach to journaling.
To me, writing is a process of shedding and alignment — shedding unwanted negative thoughts and aligning my outer world with my inner world. If I find myself experiencing a build-up of negative emotions, I know I need to write and reflect. It’s the self-actualizing fanatic in me — constantly seeking ways to evolve and balance my energies.
Needless to say, if there’s one habit I’d advise you to pick up in 2024 — it’s journaling. I hope it will change your life like it did mine.
Isra A. is a passionate writer based in Bahrain, a little island in the Middle East.
