Much is said about the benefits of journaling.

It can help you plan for the future, review past failures and successes, focus the brain, ease anxiety, and provide a safe space for emotions to run wild.

However, the art of journaling isn’t as easy as it sounds.

It isn’t simply sitting down with pen and paper and running wild – although this may work for some.

No, it can be an exhausting task, especially if emotions are involved. It’s difficult to know where to start or what to ask yourself.

So, how does it become a daily habit, one that you not only enjoy but regard as helpful too? And, why is it so beneficial?

‘Journaling helps you to have greater self-awareness of what is going on in your life,’ life coach Carole Ann Rice tells Metro.co.uk

‘When we are in a state of confusion, or we are upset, if we put our thoughts down it is called ‘naming it to tame it.’ Whatever you are feeling, if you write it down, it gives you a sense of it being a fleeting thing, and that the emotions will pass.’

Carole Ann also believes morning time is the best time to journal, as it sets us up for the day with a clear mind.

As for what to write, Tee Twyford, leadership coach and founder of Hustle + Hush Ltd says you can be as broad as you want.

‘You could start with something general like “what’s big for me right now?”,’ she advises. ‘See what comes up. Try brainstorming a selection of open questions and pop them into an envelope – then pick them out at random each time you journal.

‘Use prompts like “what am I becoming aware of?”, “what do I desire to bring into my life?” or “what is my perfect day?”‘

Tee says journalling will only work if you enjoy it, so explore it until you hit a rhythm that feels good for you. Taking it slow and releasing pressure are important steps.

‘Think about why it is you are looking to journal,’ she explains. ‘So that when any resistance emerges, or you have a competing commitment that wants to be disruptive to your journaling plans, you’re able to tap into your why and remember why it is you sought to write the first place.

‘Consider what works for you right now – maybe it’s not a daily practice? Maybe it’s a weekly thing you do? Or a monthly one?’

Keeping up self-care habits can be difficult. Guilt can often coincide with missing a day, making a person feel more anxious than relaxed. Tee notes that these practices take time to master. Missing a day or two won’t steer you off course.

She says to relax and remember you can always pick the pen up the next day.

‘Firstly, give yourself some compassion and accept that you missed it on that day,’ she advises. ‘Do what you need to do to let go of any self-judgement and wallowing. Feel good before writing again.’

Meanwhile, if all else fails and you discover journaling isn’t for you, find other ways that help you experience relaxation and empowerment.

‘It might not be the best outlet for you – that’s ok,’ Tee says.

‘Drawing, speaking to a coach, exercising or talking to a friend might be better suited.

‘Just always ensure whatever you do helps you stay connected and feel good.’

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