Journaling and to do lists

Journaling is a big thing right now. It’s not like the old school diaries we kept as kids. Journaling is writing brief statements or paragraphs on how you are feeling and/or what you are doing.

How does journaling help with organizing?

Your mind gets as cluttered as your home. By writing down your thoughts and making to do lists for the next day, you can do a “brain dump” before going to sleep – and a clear mind sleeps easier. You wake up feeling more refreshed and will get off to a better start in the morning.

If you don’t have a therapist or friend you can use to unload your issues, journaling can be a big help. Get things off your mind and onto the page. It’s like sending an angry letter to someone, but not mailing it. You get out the emotions and feel better afterward.

Michigan State University Extension says, “Journaling helps with problem solving. One of the best ways to set goals is to write them down on paper along with your hopes, plans and ideas. Writing down your problems and being able to reflect on them can inspire you to think and write about possible solutions.”

To do lists

Writing to do lists in addition to the journaling can make you more organized as well. Figure out what you need to do tomorrow or for the rest of the week. By prioritizing the list, you will know which items are most important and should be done first.

After you put your ideas down on paper (or into a mobile device or computer) it will set your mind at ease. You won’t have to remember what to do tomorrow. It’s right there, and can help with time management and staying organized.

Be realistic with your to do list and limit yourself to 1-3 items per day. Don’t sabotage your good work by making the list unachievable.

Apps help too

DayOne, Penzu and 5 Minute Journal are apps to help you get into the habit of journaling. Clear your mind and it can help reduce stress. We know that stress can add to clutter. 

Journaling has also been known to help your memory and boost self esteem. Being more organized is a side effect of all of the other positive aspects of this activity.

Give journaling and writing to do lists a try. See if they help you stay focused and more organized. Let me know how it goes.