There is an unspoken stigma around writing in a diary. The perception stems from the idea that teenage girls and young kids write about their vulnerability immaturely in an unorganized, messy book. As a result of this stereotype, many are hesitant to use a diary and are left with no way to express their emotions and reflect. As we grow older, our emotions are always changing and worsening. We are only gaining more stress as we get older and without an external release of our struggles, our minds become very clouded.
However, as the importance of mental health has progressed, so has the perception of keeping a journal. The past use of a diary has returned and reformed itself. Now, journaling isn’t limited to just writing about personal feelings but can be used for so much more. Depending on what you enjoy, there are so many different options to your preferences. Depending on whether you want to write, draw or scrapbook, there are unlimited ways to be creative in your journal. Here are a couple ideas!
Bullet Journaling
Bullet journaling is a form of journaling that includes customizing organization system used for planning. Hailey Irvan (’25) discovered bullet journaling through TikTok describing the benefits of the hobby.
“I enjoy bullet journaling so I can track the highs and lows of my day with cute colors and designs,” said Irvan.
Reflective Journaling
Reflective journaling is writing about events and how they affected the user. Whether positive or negative, this form of reflection can help deepen self-connection and build self-awareness.
“I journal about things surrounding my day or just thoughts and frustrations,” said MacKynzie Mciean (’24). As a senior, she uses reflective journaling to organize her thoughts and stay more in touch with herself.
Scrapbook Journaling
Scrapbook journaling is a way of self-expression through creativity. This is used to document memories while adding individuality through it. Not only do you have a physical object with all your sacred experiments, but the act of scrapbooking can also be a fun and relaxing process.
“I also just like drawing in general so it lets me combine both the journaling and incorporate a more creative approach,” said Paige Brigman (’26).
If you don’t know what type of journal to start or what to write about, I recommend looking on social media platforms. The rise of popularity in journaling has grown exceptionally and that is where many have felt inspired to join. The process of journaling is a great tool for self- reflection and expressing things you can’t figure out easily.
Many people that are too scared to start argue that they aren’t creative or a good writer, but journaling isn’t all done the same way. What I love about the hobby is that there are so many different types of journaling and there isn’t a right way. Remember journaling isn’t about the outcome but the process. Now go out and buy yourself a journal!
