How many times have you imagined that idyllic, quiet morning, curled up with a cup of coffee, a fresh notebook, and your favorite pen? You wake up before everyone else in the house, and you’re able to write – uninterrupted – about anything and everything?
Or perhaps you dream about keeping a gratitude journal and reflecting on all of the wonderful things that happened throughout your day before turning out the light.
How many times have you bought that gorgeous notebook believing it will “be the one” only to abandon those crisp white pages after just one or two entries?
If you can relate to any of the above scenarios, then know you’re in good company; what you just read was my own on-again-off-again relationship with journaling for years.
In fact, it wasn’t until the last 12 months that I successfully made journaling a habit that stuck. I am finally filling my notebooks with new ideas and big dreams, and I’m here to tell you that this simple practice has made a night and day difference on my mindset and outlook.
So if you’re also ready to make journaling a habit and experience the many benefits of regular reflection, then keep reading. Because today I am sharing my personal strategies to do just that.
How to Make Journaling A Habit
Journaling Habit 1: Remember Your Why
The first step in making journaling a habit is to remember your why.
What is your motivation for beginning this regular practice? What do you hope to get out of these writing sessions? Why is this habit important to you?
By getting clear on your motivations for establishing this habit, you take an important step forward toward maintaining consistency.
How?
Whenever you consider putting off your writing session because you “don’t feel like it” or you have something “more pressing” to do, you can pause, remember your why, and grab that notebook and pen.
Related: Find Your Why and Boost your Productivity
Journaling Habit 2: Make it Enjoyable
Remember, this journaling time is for you, so make the most of it! Savor your favorite cup of coffee or tea while you write. Listen to some relaxing music. Wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket and snuggle up with your dog or cat.
When you make the writing experience enjoyable, you look forward to it, which makes it much easier to maintain your journaling habit.
Journaling Habit 3: Find the Perfect Spot
Select one specific area in your home that is dedicated specifically to writing. Is there a comfortable chair, a particular room, or a beautiful window that you especially enjoy?
If so, dedicate it specifically to journaling. Any time you sit in that spot, you know it’s time to pull out your pen and notebook.
For example, I have a favorite chair where I write each morning. I keep a little table next to it for my coffee, and I can watch the sunrise as I write. It’s incredibly relaxing, and I look forward to that quiet time when the rest of the world sleeps.
Journaling Habit 4: Schedule Your Sessions
If you want to make journaling a habit, then you need to schedule a time for it in your calendar.
For so many of us, when we put something in the calendar, it’s as good as done. So just as you schedule a doctor appointment or a meeting for work, schedule time for journaling to help ensure you maintain your habit.
Journaling Habit 5: Use Journal Prompts When Facing Writer’s Block
Sometimes when I sit down to write, I get stuck with a bit of writer’s block. I stare at the blank pages in my journal, and my pen doesn’t move.
Rather than closing the notebook and telling myself, I’ll return when I’m “feeling inspired,” I instead turn to my list of journal prompts. Often just one or two questions is all it takes to get my mind turning and the words flowing.
Are you ready to make journaling a habit? Fantastic! Be sure to grab my 31 journal prompts for busy women here!
Question:
Do you like to journal? What are your tips to make journaling a habit? Share your thoughts below!