My youngest has goine off to university this year and I have an empty house. Finally I have some time for some of my more creative pursuits including my faithful journal, which is now flourishing. I started mine during lockdown and it has been a very useful companion over what have been interesting times…
However, a journal doesn’t have to be all-consuming or take up too much of your time, it can even be a way to turbo-charge your productivity. It is also a safe space to vent when things get just too much. Carving out just a few minutes in your day for journalling can be your secret weapon for staying sane and centered. Here are 12 journalling tips to turn your scribbles into serenity:
1. Quick Prompts, Not Novels:
Forget hour-long sessions. Aim for mini bursts of reflection: first thing in the morning, five minutes before bed, while the bath runs, or waiting for the kettle to boil. Which would work best for you?
2. Phone a (Journalling) Friend:
No time for solo reflection? Buddy up with another busy mum! Motivate each other, share prompts, and celebrate your journalling wins. Join the challenge below and join in with our small and cosy Facebook group.
3. Gratitude on the Go:
Stuck in traffic? Stuck in line? Use those moments to jot down one thing you’re grateful for – even a sunny patch or a good cup of coffee. You can even make voice notes on your phone and then transfer the to your journal in your regular journalling session.
4. Ditch the Desk:
Forget fancy desk spaces. Journal on the bus, in the park, or the coffee shop. Journal while you are waiting for your children after school or during thier activities. Find your happy journalling haven, wherever it may be.
5. Embrace the Messy:
No time for calligraphy? Scribble, doodle, rant, and rave! Your journal is your safe space, not a literary competition. Let your thoughts flow freely.
6. Baby Steps, Big Rewards:
Start small. Promise yourself five minutes once a week, then gradually increase the time as you find your rhythm. Don’t overwhelm yourself with grand journalling goals.
7. Keep it Close:
Place your journal where you’ll see it – by the bed, on the kitchen counter, even in your diaper bag. A friendly reminder will keep you on track. I like to journal on my iPad using Goodnotes app, and the journal is also then available on my phone, so I can add to it when I am out and about
8. Pretty Pages, Happy Mind:
Choose a journal you love – a cheerful cover, fun layout, anything that sparks joy. When you see it, you’ll be excited to grab it and write. Buy and use stickers or washi tape, or glue in inspring images, photos and quotes. Your journal is whatever you want it to be
9. No Judgement Zone:
Forget grammar rules and spell checking. Your journal is for you, not English professors. Let your true voice shine through, unfiltered and authentic. Use whatever words you choose even if you wouldn’t say them out in public,
It’s nice to have a safe space where you don’t need to wear a mask.
10. Remember Your Why:
Are you journaling for stress relief, creativity, or simply capturing memories? Keep your “why” in mind. It’ll fuel your motivation when life gets crazy.
11. Embrace the Power of Prompts:
Feeling stuck? Google “journalling prompts for busy mums” and find inspiration! From “What made you laugh today?” to “One thing I learned this week,” prompts can jumpstart your reflection.
12. Celebrate Every Scribble:
Every minute you spend journalling is a victory. Don’t wait for long, eloquent entries. Celebrate every sentence, every doodle, every moment you take for yourself. It is definitely worth it.
Remember, mums, even a few minutes of journalling can be a game-changer. It’s your chance to breathe, reflect, and recharge.
So grab your pen, find your corner, and let your thoughts flow. You’ve got this!
Come and join the free Motivating Mum 14 Day Journalling challenge, and see how journalling can enrich your life. You will receive lots more journalling tips and some fun daily prompts and activities to get you started with journalling.
