Journaling is one of the best things we can do for our mental health. It allows us to get out thoughts and feelings that may be stuck cycling in our brains. Journaling also helps us prioritize and reflect on what is happening in our day to day life.

One comment I often hear from clients is that they would like to journal, but they do not know where to start. The thing is, there is no right way to do it. What works for you may not work for someone else and vice versa.

Journaling can look like jotting down random words or phrases, it can be eloquent or nonsensical, a list or a paragraph, whatever process feels most soothing to you. Grab your pen and paper (or actual journal) and start with some of these prompts: 

• Things I am grateful for today are: 

• I feel stuck because: 

• Things that are within my control today are: 

• My goals for the day/week/month/year are: 

• Things that made me feel happy or sad today are: 

You can also jot down thoughts about your day, worries you have, accomplishments you made, or things to worry about tomorrow.

There is no right or wrong, just focus on taking what is on your mind and getting it on paper to feel just a tiny bit lighter! Aim for once a week, though optimal benefits are felt with writing daily or every other day, even just a sentence.