How to Process Life Through Journaling

At almost any cost, we like to avoid pain. It’s subconscious human nature to look for a quick remedy in comfort food, shopping or any form of entertainment, or chant “positive thoughts, positive thoughts,” as soon as we face a hurtful situation, as if that will instantly solve the mental or emotional struggle like a magic eraser.

Especially given the fast-paced lifestyles most of us lead, if not all of us, it is much easier to fall into distraction by whatever is going on around us than deal with real-time heart issues that need to be addressed. Whatever form of pain is suppressed within you, whether it’s fear, heartbreak, doubt, disappointment or grief, it needs to be processed and walked through. While talking to a friend or family member you trust is always a good idea, if you feel you are too sensitive to this particular point of pain and it’s even difficult for you to pinpoint your own genuine thoughts about it, journaling is your new best friend, the first key to unraveling your inner world and eventually healing. Whether you’re sitting in your bedroom, a coffee shop, or a beach somewhere, here are a few points to keep in mind as you begin journaling.

Acknowledge your emotions

As you start to write, feelings will probably begin to surface. No matter how little or big they are, make sure you acknowledge them and write them down. Becoming aware of how you truly feel is an essential step.

Ask yourself the questions you fear

“Why do I feel this way?” / “What triggered this in me?”

“Can I ever move on?” / “When will things get better?” 

“How do I plan to face the obstacle right in front of me?”

And you don’t need to have any immediate answers, but it’s really helpful to reflect on the hard questions.

Be completely honest

You don’t need to sound fancy or write perfect English, since no one will read it. You might as well be as vulnerable as you can get. I understand some emotions are very hard to admit, because they make us feel weak and we don’t want to be weak. Other emotions, like jealousy for example, we don’t admit, because we expected to be better and we want to do better. In reality, you need to be kind to yourself if you want to get better. The more ‘real’ you are with yourself, the more healing you can receive.

After you write, listen

For many, journaling can actually be a spiritual activity, a process to connect with yourself and your creator. If you believe God listens when we bare your hearts, you can mindfully talk to Him as you journal and you might just receive the answers in your heart.