How Journaling Can Make You Happier!

Something happens when I crack open my journal and start writing. Sometimes it feels like a weight has been lifted off of me, other times it's a small surge of excitement. The particular brand of journaling that I do is best described as a brain dump onto the page—no structure, no rules, just whatever is on my mind spilling out onto paper. But why does this type of journaling have such a profound effect? I think there are a couple of answers to this.

Clarity Through Writing

The first reason is clarity. Writing down my thoughts helps me organize them in a way that my brain can’t always do on its own. When you get your thoughts out of your head and onto the page, you inevitably start to see solutions, patterns, and those satisfying aha moments. It’s like a mental decluttering session. Maybe I’m even processing my emotions more effectively, allowing me to move forward instead of getting stuck in a loop of overthinking.

Creative Expression and Flow State

The second reason is the creative expression that comes with journaling. I don’t make those beautifully aesthetic bullet journals you see on Pinterest—mine aren’t super organized or color-coded—but I totally get the appeal. For me, the act of writing itself is a form of creative expression. And when I really get into it—when I stop second-guessing every word and just let the thoughts flow—I find myself reaching that elusive flow state. You know, that moment where time slips away and you're completely immersed in what you’re doing? Yeah, journaling can do that.

So there you have it. Whether it’s for clarity, creativity, or just the satisfaction of getting thoughts out of your head, journaling has an undeniable impact. Look out for more posts about journaling from me in the future, and I hope your own journaling experience brings you the same benefits!