Writing has given me such liberty to express how I feel, and has given a safe place in my life. Growing up, I was very shy and had difficulty expressing myself to other people because I always felt misunderstood. I felt like I was lost among hundreds of other people and that no one would want to hear what I had to say. That's when I turned to journaling. I became obsessed with the different types of journals that I collected and always found the urge to write constantly. I would write all things that I wanted to say to my friends and family, write about what and how I was feeling and used it as a way to express my inner thoughts.
Journaling was a cathartic release for me. I found more comfort pouring my heart in my journals than confiding in a friend because I knew it was a no judgement zone. I was in control of my thoughts, my words and my voice, and no one could say say anything to make me feel like what I thought wasn't important. When I write, I lose myself in a sea of words, looking for the perfect way to convey how I feel. Writing is an art form that I treasure deeply, and I continue to do it so I can become a better writer every day. Art should be appreciated and should be taken seriously in order to truly reach the potential that is needed to succeed. What I love most about writing and journaling is that I can do it anywhere! I can do it at home in my physical journal or when I'm outside and feel the need to write, I can use apps on my phone. Inspiration can strike from anywhere and give you the motivation to write something extraordinary.
Journals are such a keepsake because they hold the most important memories in your life. You can always go back and read one of your journals to see how much you've grown not only in your writing, but also as a person. They become a reflection of you as a person and embody everything you believe to be true.
I have found so much solace and comfort in keeping journals and can only continue to encourage others to do the same. Starting a journal is not difficult at all! Most of the time you don't even have to go out and buy a new one. The chances are is that you most likely have an unused one laying around your house. If not, you can always go out and buy one and decorate it yourself. You can keep a journal for your own personal thoughts, to-do lists, organizer, bullet journal or a daily log (such as to keep track of your weight). Your journal can be whatever you want it to be! The possibilities are endless. Journaling is a different experience for everyone, but you have to find what works best for you.
