Journaling: A Boon in Adulthood!

Being an adult can be intense, won't you agree? Managing work, family responsibilities, and just trying to have some decent social life, my head felt like a total jumble! Thoughts racing, worries about finances, figuring out the next career step – hoof!

When I shared this with a friend of mine, who always seemed surprisingly calm, she suggested I try journaling. My first thought was, "Seriously? Like writing in a diary?" But she explained it’s way simpler and more helpful than only writing. It’s a way to get all that stuff swirling in my brain out onto paper.

The best part about journaling, especially when you're on a budget, is that it’s practically free. I used any old notebook I had lying around. There’s no pressure to be a great writer or to even make complete sentences all the time. Sometimes, I just jot down a few words about how I’m feeling – "stressed," "excited about that new project," "worried about a deadline." Other times, I might write a quick list of things I need to do in a day.

What I found surprisingly useful was just seeing my thoughts written down. Sometimes, just that act helps me see things more clearly. For example, I was super stressed about an upcoming work presentation, and when I wrote down all the things I was worried about, I realised that a lot of it was just normal anxiety, and that in reality, there were only a couple of specific points I needed to focus on. It helped me break down the problem into smaller parts, making me feel less anxious.

Another thing I've started doing is writing down small things I'm grateful for each day – maybe a good cup of chai after a long day, a colleague who made me laugh. It sounds simple, but on those days when everything feels overwhelming, looking back at those little positive things can actually make me feel a bit better.

Journaling, for me, has become this really simple, no-fuss way to just check in with myself, sort through the chaos in my head, and feel a little more grounded.  Give it a try and see how it works for yourself!

By Vidhi Bhanushali

Vidhi is our Psychology Intern. As an aspiring Clinical Psychologist, she is committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic space where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Through Innate Mind, she is dedicated to supporting your personal growth and empowering you to navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.