Need a New Year's resolution? A hobby? A way to relax? Look no further than the office supply section. All you need is something to write with and something to write in. Craft supplies are optional, but extra fun. Here's a list of why you should start a journal this year:

1. You don't have to be a writer to write a journal

Journaling is a no-pressure way to try out writing if you're not a writer, because it's just for you. There's no right or wrong, so anything goes.

2. It can be a stress reliever

Spend some time reflecting on the good parts of your day or what you accomplished, no matter how big or small. Journaling is a good way to focus on the positive, and it can help you work through negative things, too.

3. Even if you're not a "creative" person, it can be fun to get in touch with your artsy side

You don't have to write for every entry. You can draw and doodle, or you can include pictures, letters, or notes. Journaling should be fun, not tedious.

4. You can follow a guide

You don't need to worry about writer's block or being uninspired. Follow a guide like this one that gives you an easy daily prompt to keep you going.

5. It's like a bunch of New Year's resolutions combined into one

Do you want to be more disciplined? Happier? Less stressed? More focused? Let journaling check all those boxes at once.

6. It'll help you cut down on screen time

Maybe another resolution of yours? Instead of spending however long on your phone before you go to sleep, try journaling. It's more productive, plus having some no-screen time before bed will help you sleep better.

7. You can keep it all to yourself, unless you want to share

In a time when we share every little detail of our lives with the world via Facebook and Twitter, it can be nice to have something that's all for you. Unless, of course, you want to share your awesome doodles.

8. It's a lot cheaper than therapy

Not that therapy is a bad thing, but if you need to work through a problem, writing it in your journal can be really helpful.

9. It can be as detailed or as simple as you want

Feel like writing a few pages? Awesome. Just want to write down a quote, or write a few lines? That's cool, too.

10. It's a good way to document your year

Journaling is a great way to keep track of your progress, your highs and lows, and your accomplishments. At the end of the year, you can take a look at all the awesome things you did, and then you'll have a record of it for years to come.

Bonus!

Starting a journal means you have an excuse to go buy an awesome journal (or three) and your favorite pens! (Like we ever need an excuse to go to Target.)