How NOT TO Journal....

When I was first introduced to the world of journalling through pinterest and instagram, about a year ago, I was blown over. In a moment so many scenarios flashed before my eyes..... me journalling everyday..... creating pretty journals. But after initial excitement, my progress was nil. I ended up confused, sometimes reluctant to start a journal or sometimes frustrated by juggling too many journals.

Now a year later, I have realized most mistakes I have (as well as most people) made during initial stage of starting a journal. Following are few of them:

• Waiting for that 'right' journal / pen / stationery.

I don't know how many of you do this, but I did. I would keep on procrastinating either looking for a right journal/ pen or when the notebook is too pretty to use. Sometimes I am missing either the stickers or color pens. Later I realized I was just making excuses for not starting.

Trust me if you seriously want to start journalling none of the above matters. Only important key is- Just Start. I have even used a simple composition notebook as journal at a time.

• Juggling too many journals at same time.

I am one of those people who always try to do it all. Initially I started with too many journals at once: A planner, an art journal, a prompt journal and a daily dairy. Juggling between these four, there came a moment when I was so frustrated that I completely stopped all.

Now I just keep a single journal with different inserts and it's working great for me.

• Trying to be pretty on every page.

Oh, the feels I get watching all the pretty journals on the social platforms. I always try to copy them and end up disappointed. I think most of us can relate to this. Not everyone of us is as creative or artistic.

Some of my spreads in journal turn out great (like the above one), some not so good. I think what we should realize that all the pretty journals that we see were once an amateur just like us. It may be difficult at the beginning. Not all pages will look pretty. But the main purpose isn't about making it pretty. It's the content that matters.

• Lack of self confidence.

My low self esteem was also reflected in my journals. I used to lack confidence; either to make my journal pretty (as above point stated) or to freely write down everything in my journal afraid anyone would peak into it.

It took me a year and lot of courage to pour down my heart in my journal without worrying about how it turns out.

Do you too struggle with these problems? What other difficulties did you face in initial stages of journalling? I would love to hear how well you are rocking your journal right now.

Love,
Sarah