1. Tools for Journaling: Google Docs
I use Google Docs for my journaling. I make sure it’s accessible 24/7, so I can write anytime and anywhere. This has become a crucial support for my mind. While I mostly use the mobile Google Docs app, I also write using Google Docs on my PC. The benefit of using the mobile app is that I can write even when I’m out and about.
2. Journaling Format: Freeform
The format is flexible, but in my journaling, I always ensure that the most recent entry is at the top. For example, today is November 11, 2024, so I write it at the top.
This means yesterday’s entry goes below, and a week ago will be further down. As you scroll down, you can read the past entries. The reason for this format is simple: when I open Google Docs, I want to immediately see the most recent thing I’ve written. If I wrote at the bottom each time, I’d have to scroll down every time I open the document, which takes time. Plus, there’s no need to revisit past entries unless I want to, in which case, I can scroll down to see them when I wish.
3. What Do I Write? What Does Journaling Bring Me?
When people think of journaling, they often imagine writing about the events of the day at the end of it. However, for me, I use journaling as a way to get everything out. I write when I want to objectively look at my current emotions, when something is bothering me and I want to figure out what it is, when I want to reflect on what I want to do today and my motivation behind it, or when I have insights like “I used to be this way, but now I’ve changed.” I really write anything and everything.
Writing allows me to notice how my feelings evolve and change. That’s why I think journaling is somewhat like traveling—it’s a journey in itself. As I write, my thoughts expand, and that’s what makes it so interesting. Comparing what I was thinking 3 minutes ago to what I’m thinking now, I can see how much I’ve progressed. The act of writing keeps pushing me forward infinitely. That’s the essence of it. I believe journaling has a healing effect. In the past, I would immediately feel a sense of relief just from writing, so its impact has been incredibly powerful.
About Me: Hi, I’m Evolving Mind. Through this blog, I share my journey of self-discovery and mental well-being. Journaling has been a powerful tool for me, and I hope to inspire others to find their own path to peace and clarity.
