My 6th Grade Science Teacher was Right: The Process of Writing Produces Benefits
From The Pen's Nib: Edition 32
Topic: Journaling Benefits
In last week’s newsletter, I wrote, “Benefits from journaling result from the process, not the content.”
There is something about the physical act of putting your thoughts on paper.
Scholars, philosophers, mathematicians, merchants, and thinkers of all genres have recorded their thoughts, ideas, and meaningful quotations for centuries.
In journaling, the physical process of writing your words gives them life by
Confirming and validating them.
Organizing them for future reference.
Giving you perspective.
Helping you gain clarity.
It’s easy to assume that just thinking is enough. However, there is something about the process of writing that enhances what they mean. They somehow become more real.
This benefit is not limited to your emotions.
If you journal food, exercise, and/or sleep, the process confirms the data and helps you gain a perspective on how and why you feel the way you do.
Journaling your dreams may help you remember details and see connections between past dreams, your subconscious, and your emotions.
At a minimum, the process of writing will help you remember what you choose to write.
When I was in 6th grade, my science class always gave a collective moan over Thursday night’s homework: “Rewrite your notes for the unit test tomorrow.” There was no getting around it. Homework was handed in and became part of our grade. My science teacher explained that this was the best way to remember the information presented on the test. She was positive we would come back and thank her when we were in high school and college.
When I think of the simple process of writing something in my journal now, it almost seems more magical than remembering what I write. Maybe that’s because it is.
I am often surprised at what my journaling reveals. Sometimes, it reveals insight into others’ words and actions. Mostly, it reveals lessons about me.
Takeaways:
The process of writing your thoughts is the key to the benefits of journaling.
Benefits include validation, organization, perspective, and clarity.
The writing process of journaling increases self-knowledge.
If you journal, try this prompt:
What did I learn about myself from my experiences today? How can I apply this knowledge tomorrow?
I would love to hear from you. What benefits have you seen from writing your words? Leave a comment, and let’s start a conversation.
Thank you for reading.
Until next time,
✍️ Susan
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Items of interest:
📸I love adding a visual interest to my journal. The same is true for my newsletters. Each week will feature a picture I have taken corresponding with the month the edition is published unless otherwise noted. I’ve taken daily pictures since 2020. I have many to share!
📰From The Pen’s Nib is my second newsletter. My first, Take Pen to Paper, is about gratitude and the good in life. If you haven’t seen it, check it out. It may be for you.