Journaling

A lot of my clients like to keep a journal.  Journaling is a technique that many therapists like to employ.  Why?  It's a great way to keep track of how you think and feel.  It's a great way to be more aware of yourself.  Awareness is a fundamental life skill.  Without it, we have no clue what's going on inside of us.  If we have no clue, then we certainly aren't making the best decisions that we can.  By learning to be aware of ourselves, we connect with our thoughts, feelings, wants and our behaviors.  By knowing ourselves well, we are not only able to make good decisions, but best fit decisions.  If I work with someone who is having trouble getting to know him/herself, I encourage journal writing.  For some, it may be awkward, but after time, it'll feel more comfortable.  I also recommend journal writing when people have trouble managing difficult feelings.  Journal writing can be very therapeutic when people have strong emotions and don't know what to do with them.  Instead of being destructive, you can write about them.  Once feelings are acknowledged, they are less powerful.  So, if you ever feel down or lonely, mad or frustrated, pull out your journal, a little time spent writing could open up a whole new world of self-discovery.