The Art of Journaling
Hello and welcome to my "Guide to Journaling 101"! There are an infinite amount of ways to incorporate creativity into your life, and one way I practice art is through journaling! I’ve been consistently keeping a hardcover notebook on my nightstand for a few years now, and the journals that I’ve filled up with sticky notes, drawings, and to-do lists now sit under my bed. With them lie the memories of a time in which going to Tufts felt so far in the future, but here I am, writing this from Tisch Library!
During my first semester in Peru (check out my other blogs for more info!), my journal has served as a catch-all for all my memories, assignments, and blog ideas. Within a few months, so much has changed, and my journals are like a personal library of my growth for me to look back on. Whether you journal regularly or want to start in the new year, below are a few suggestions from me to you!
1. Firstly, there is no right or wrong way! All you need is a notebook and a pen (but even that is optional if you'd prefer to type out your feelings online). My favorite stationery supplies are the Leuchtturm 1917 dotted notebook and Pilot G-2 0.38 mm pen. Before this holiday season, treat yourself to a notebook and markers from Tiny Turns Paperie in Union Square or Magpie Industries in Davis. And pick up highlighters and stickers while you are there!
2. Follow your flow of consciousness! Some people enjoy keeping a gratitude journal while others opt for a diary-like style. I found that I get the most out of journaling by incorporating a little of each. I start with the setting—time, date, and place—and let my thoughts lead me. Sometimes my journaling is a bullet-pointed list of what I saw, ate, did, etc., and other times it is a rant about something on my mind. I always leave room to write one thing I look forward to in the future.
3. Write down your worries. My journal is also my biggest place for “brain dumps.” Seeing my worries on paper makes them less overwhelming and breaking my goals down into steps makes them more attainable. Journaling is one of my means of catharsis, and that, as well as weekly FaceTime with my best friend, keeps me sane.
4. Do it wherever and whenever—in the Commons, on the T, before you fall asleep, or right when you wake up. Find what works best for you! But whatever you do, don’t make it a chore! Journaling is (and should be) relaxing. Instead of forcing yourself to a strict schedule, journal when you need a break from studying or when you're enjoying a sunny day on Prez Lawn.
5. Have fun! Be creative! Doodle in the margins! Don't be afraid of color! Find inspiration on Pinterest! There are no constraints between the covers. It is yours to fill up and yours to look back on! Before you know it, your life is going to change right before your eyes, so live fully today and cherish the memories tomorrow.
Photo Credit: Teagan Mustone