The Journal as a Mirror
Why Is It So Hard to Journal Consistently?
Dear journal, why is it so hard for me to consistently check in with you? I always feel better when I do, but I really struggle with it.
This is how I began my last entry.
Why Does Journaling Feel Helpful Once We Start?
I recommend journaling to many clients, and I talk with friends about how good it feels once I actually do it. And there’s always that moment — when I realize I’m not just recording my day anymore. I’m processing and speaking from a place I don’t usually slow down enough to access, and my inner world becomes so much more available.
Why Is It So Hard to Keep Up With Journaling?
And still, it’s hard to do consistently. Most people assume they’re the only ones who can’t stick with journaling, but this comes up with almost everyone I talk to — clients, friends, myself included.
Life moves fast, and writing often slips to the bottom of the list, even when we know it genuinely helps. It’s natural to avoid the page or go long stretches without checking in. It doesn’t mean we’re avoiding reflection or not committed to growth; it usually just means we’re stretched thin.
What Makes Journaling Feel Safer Than Talking?
Writing reflects you back to yourself without any pressure to sound a certain way. You don’t have to be insightful or organized. Your journal doesn’t judge you, which is often why the truest parts of you show up there.
Seeing your thoughts on paper helps you realize how much you’ve been holding and how quickly you tend to move past things before you’ve felt them.
What Does Journaling Actually Reveal Over Time?
Most of what journaling reveals isn’t dramatic. It’s the subtle things — the patterns you repeat without noticing, the tension around a decision, or the small moment you handled with more steadiness than you gave yourself credit for.
Writing brings forward what might have been overlooked simply because you were moving too quickly.
How Do You Start Journaling When You Don’t Know What to Write?
I often hear that people don’t know where to start. If you want a way in, you might try these ideas:
What feels positive, neutral, or heavy right now?
In which ways do I notice I’ve been protecting myself lately?
What have I learned about myself recently?
How have I shown up for myself in ways I feel good about?
What’s something I’ve been holding that I’m ready to let go of?
Reflection doesn’t have to be planned or disciplined. If writing gives you even a brief moment of clarity or gentleness toward yourself, that’s more than enough. And if you’re noticing that reflection brings up things you don’t want to sit with alone, reach out to our Client Care Coordinator for support today.
Warmly,
Lauren David AMFT
