Journaling is the practice of writing down personal feelings, thoughts, and experiences as a tool for self reflection and personal growth.

It is a helpful tool for coping with overwhelming emotions and maintaining your mental health. Journaling can manage anxiety, reduce stress, and help individuals dealing with depression.

My new year’s resolution is to journal every day. 2025 was incredibly stressful, so I wanted to add a new habit to my daily routine. So far, I have been writing about my day and how I am feeling. I also write one manifestation sentence and one thing I am grateful for. 

After hearing about how beneficial journaling can be, I have already begun to understand why it makes people feel so good. It has only been a week, and I have started to look forward to writing in my journal at night. Journaling has become a meaningful way to reflect on emotions, whether negative or positive. Writing everything down on paper feels like I am letting go of all of the energy I carried with me throughout the day. 

Even though I haven’t been journaling for long, I would recommend it to everyone. It does not have to be fancy; it can simply be done with a pencil and a random sheet of paper. You also don’t have to write paragraphs for it to be meaningful.

“I like to use color pens and a notebook when I journal. And, I write about what I did during the day,” said Taylor Pasternak, junior.

There is something so calming about unplugging and putting all your feelings down on a page only meant for you. 

You don’t have to start tonight, and you do not have to write every day. However, if you are ever feeling stressed, heartbroken, or overjoyed, writing down what you’re thinking about can be helpful. I promise it will make a difference.

Kaylee O'brien, social media editor 2025-26

Hugging and playing with my dogs always makes my day better.