The Power of Gratitude Journaling
Did you know journaling has mental health benefits?
With the new year upon us, it is time to consider new habits and resolutions to prioritize. I didn’t realize the power of journaling until I started doing it for myself. My goal as you read through this article is to provide you with more knowledge and insight into the incredible journey of journaling.
Self-Reflection
Writing down your thoughts is a great way to slow down and reflect on thoughts, actions, memories, habits, and more. Taking the time to reflect directly benefits one’s mental health. Journaling can help you release built-up tension and decrease any weight that has been burdening you. Take time this month to reflect on new goals, habits, aspirations, finances, routines, and more.
Stress Release
A new semester can create an elevated amount of stress on the body. Stress can be released through expressing your thoughts and emotions on paper. Once you are finished, you can throw the paper away, and never see it again, or save it to look back at in the future.
Goal Setting
I am sure all of us have heard the importance of goal setting at least once in our lives. Writing your goals down is a permanent reminder of what you aspire to do. Also, it gives you the chance to check it off when accomplished. Acknowledging goals on paper leads to increased motivation and success. I highly recommend writing short-term goals on a sticky note and posting them where you will see them every single day. Whether that is on your bathroom mirror or your desk, this sticky note will serve as a daily reminder of your progress and hard work.
Positivity
By writing down items you are thankful for, you shift your focus towards positivity and appreciation. Reminding yourself of the things you are grateful for creates a positive mindset and diminishes negative thoughts.
Closure
Everyone needs closure. Closure provides clarity and makes it easier to stop worrying about old struggles. Writing out your thoughts and feelings can help you process your emotions and learn to move on. For those who tend to overthink, like me, closure is essential to moving on.
Journaling is a healthy way to connect your mind to your awareness. It has many benefits, especially for mental health.
If you are struggling, you are not alone. I encourage you to reach out and talk to someone. Auburn offers free psychological services to students. Click here to learn more.
Be Well, Auburn.
Editor
An avid sports fan from Sharpsburg, Georgia, Maddie knew she wanted to head to a D1 school. After visiting Auburn, she was set on becoming a member of the Auburn Family.
Maddie enjoys spending quality time with others, watching Friends, working out, playing golf, and making others smile. Maddie also loves dogs and has two adorable chocolate labs at home.
Her favorite place to be is outdoors. Whether it’s going for a stroll or chatting with friends, you can find Maddie spending her time outside. She is passionate about helping others, staying active and organized, enjoying the moment, and closing her rings. If you find Maddie without her Apple Watch, something bad has definitely happened.
