Remember that girl in every class that has to write absolutely everything down? Yes, that was me unfortunately. Remember that girl who had a tub load full of flashcards for every test? Guilty.. again.

Not only has writing been my saving grace academically, but also personally and mentally. I have always been one to openly share my feelings. I can never keep anything hidden. My mom will know by the way I say 'Hello' on the phone when something is wrong. As you can imagine, this can be a blessing and a curse.

Sometimes I felt bad for always wanting to talk to my best friend or my mom about things that were bothering me because I thought I was bothering them. Sometimes I wanted to share a thought with myself, and just remember it for later. Sometimes I wanted to cheer myself up or motivate myself to keep going and stay positive.

Because of all of these things, I began to write. Not only have I began these articles to share my thoughts with everyone else, but I have also started writing for just me, personally.

I recently bought a notebook just to keep my ideas, my periodic words of wisdom, my enraged or sad thoughts, and sometimes just a to-do list.

I use to be opposed to this idea because it reminded me of a diary a 12-year-old girl would keep only to write about the boy she liked at school, or what Susie Q was saying about her at recess.

But I have recently changed my mindset about this idea, and I have found myself to be a much happier and balanced person.

Writing has kept me sane, it has allowed me to share my thoughts and ideas, it has given me more confidence and happiness within myself, as well as given me a reminder to pick up those Clorox wipes from the grocery store.

Having a notebook or journal was one of the best investments I have ever made. If you're feeling upset and don't want to talk about it, write it down! It's crazy how much better you feel when you can express your thoughts and ideas!