Sunday with Stacie – Volume 14

Happiest Sunday to all! I’m back after a few days away at our second home. It was a mix of peace and quiet with lots of rest and relaxation. And then 3 of our grand babies arrived and it was noise and chaos (in the best way). If you have young children or grandchildren then you know exactly what I’m talking about. It’s all good as long as we get to kiss them goodnight and give them back to their parents. Right?! I don’t know about you, but I don’t have the energy like I used to.

For today’s post I’m going to talk about journaling. I’ve never been one to journal much, however, I had an update to my iPhone and iPad that added a journal app. I figured, what the heck, why not give it a try. So I’ve been waking up each morning, reflecting and writing down my thoughts. I’m finding it to be pretty satisfying.

Journaling is an activity that’s beneficial for your mental health and it provides an opportunity for self-expression. If you’re looking to add to your self-care routine, journaling could be your next favorite hobby.

If you ask why journaling is worth considering, it’s a tool for self-discovery. Have you ever found yourself in moments where you’re not sure how you’re feeling or why you’re feeling a certain way? Journaling can serve as a tangible outlet for your thoughts, helping you explore your emotions, ambitions, and fears.

And then, there’s the bonus of cultivating gratitude. Maintaining a gratitude journal can cultivate a mindset of positivity, even during challenging times. You’d be amazed at how jotting down three things you’re thankful for each day can make a difference in your mood and outlook. You know me, the eternal optimist, always trying to maintain a positive mindset.

If organization is an area you struggle with, a bullet journal can be a game changer. This trendy method helps you keep track of everything from appointments and tasks to your personal goals. It’s a planner, diary, and to-do list all rolled into one.

If documenting your life journey for future generations to read someday sounds appealing, consider a memoir journal. This form of journaling allows you to write your life story in your own words, your own way. It’s your personal biography in the making.

Want to take it a step further? Art journaling combines elements of writing with visual imagery, letting your creativity flow. No artistic talent is required, just a willingness to explore and express yourself.

And there’s good news for my tech-savvy friends, too. If paper and pen don’t suit your lifestyle, digital journaling could be up your alley. With a plethora of apps available, you can type your thoughts or record voice notes. It’s portable, convenient and offers the benefit of password protection for added security. This has been my own choice. I use the app on my phone as well as a digital planner on my iPad where I journal too. I’m a fan of using affirmations and pretty stickers to keep my journal visually appealing.

My current preferred journal is my ipad and the Apple pencil pro. I also like the Kindle Scribe. I personally went with the iPad because it serves more purpose for me and I wanted to journal in color, rather than black and white that the Scribe uses. I still recommend it though if it suits your needs.

Whatever your preference or lifestyle, there’s a journaling option to suit you. It’s a simple practice that can yield profound effects on your wellbeing. It might help you understand yourself better and navigate life with more grace and composure. Let me know if you’re fond of journaling and what type of journal you keep.