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Why Journaling Still Matters
If you read about a notable figure in history, you will see references to their journal entries. This is because journaling was considered both an effective way to keep a diary and a method for thinking things through. This remains true today.
If you read about a notable figure in history, you will see references to their journal entries. This is because journaling was considered both an effective way to keep a diary and a method for thinking things through. This remains true today.
There was a time when journaling was simply the standard thing done by a majority of people. Also referred to as keeping a diary, journals served as fascinating records of a person’s life whether theywere in one sport or traveling the world.
The most notably of journals comes from a little girl during the second world war. I am, of course, talking about Anne Frank. A teenager, she kept a journal of the harrowing experiences she and her jewish family experienced hiding from the Nazis.
The important thing about Anne Frank and all journals is perspective. While reading her journals is an emotional event, it is important to think of her perspective. She is not writing for you, but for herself! The journals are a story, but also an effort to cope.
It goes without saying that nobody should have to go through what Anne Frank and her family did. That being said, writing down your thoughts every day or two has some massive benefits and is something you should consider doing.
The first benefit of journaling is simply keeping a record of your life. While we all think we have a sharp memory, can you really remember what you were doing even a year ago? I can’t. Reading back through a journal is often like reliving the period in question.
Our society is all about doing things right now. This intensity can lead to a loss of perspective. Journaling requires you to take some time to reflect. As you sit and write, that reflection can give you a moment to be calm and make a good decision.
When your going through a bad stretch in life, it can seem like it will never end. If you keep a journal, you can read back through it and realize you’ve survived bad stretches before. You would be shocked how much this acknowledgement can help.
For some families, journals serve a functionary role in the history of the family. They are passed down from generation to generation and create a written record of your geneology. You don’t have to do this, but it makes for great reading over time.