Hello dear friend,
How are you, I hope your week has gone well and things are taking shaping gradually this year. Could you let me know if you did your goal-setting from last week?
I thought we should look at journalling from a different perspective this week.
Journaling is a time-tested tool for improving mental well-being. It allows you to process emotions, reflect on your experiences, and clarify your thoughts. It’s something we use in formal clinical setting as a way to help people see evidence of behaviours and thoughts as well. It is very powerful.
The bible says “write it down and make it plain…”
While it’s often seen as a solo activity, journaling can also be an incredible group activity, strengthening relationships and fostering accountability.
Imagine transforming the practice into a shared journey with family, friends, or an accountability group—a space to connect, grow, and support each other.
Here’s how to harness the mental health benefits of journaling and make it a group endeavor this new year.
I remember a friend saying if you are surrounded by wise people, you will most likely be wise. So let’s use the time we spend with our social circle more impactfully. Let’s go to a journaling party!
Benefits of Journaling for Mental Health
Before diving into group journaling, let’s recap why this practice is so powerful for mental well-being:
- Stress Reduction: Writing helps you unload overwhelming thoughts, reducing anxiety.
- Emotional Clarity: Journaling offers insight into your emotions, helping you understand and regulate them better.
- Goal Setting: Putting your goals on paper keeps them clear and actionable.
- Increased Gratitude: Writing about what you’re thankful for shifts your focus toward the positive aspects of life.
- Enhanced Connection: When shared, journaling fosters deeper understanding and bonding in relationships.
- Promotes a sense of accountability
Journaling as a Group Activity
When journaling becomes a shared experience, it creates opportunities for accountability, mutual support, and even fun. Here’s how to get started:
1. Create a Journaling Group
- Invite friends, family, or colleagues to join you.
- Decide whether you’ll meet in person or virtually (e.g., through a group chat or video calls).
- Name your group something inspiring, like “The Reflection Circle” or “The Journal Journey.”
2. Set Clear Goals
Define the purpose of your group journaling:
- Are you focusing on self-improvement?
- Do you want to celebrate daily wins?
- Or maybe tackle specific challenges, like managing stress or building resilience?
Having a shared goal keeps everyone motivated and on track.
3. Pick a Journaling Format
- Daily Prompts: Rotate responsibilities for sharing prompts that guide the group’s reflections. Examples include:
- “What’s one thing that made you smile today?”
- “What’s a challenge you overcame this week?”
- Themed Weeks: Focus on specific themes like gratitude, personal growth, or stress relief each week.
- Free Writing: Allow everyone to write freely but share highlights during check-ins.
4. Use social platforms with shared access
- Consider shared platforms like Google Docs for collaborative journaling.
- Use physical journals and discuss entries during weekly or monthly meetups.
- Explore apps that support group sharing.
5. Foster Accountability
- Schedule regular check-ins (weekly or biweekly) to talk about progress and insights.
- Use these meetings to encourage and celebrate each other’s efforts.
i had an accountability group for career goals in 2020 through Blazers and Baby circles and omg! It helped me so much. They are doing a series of events this year, check them out here
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEyJAlGIgJd/?igsh=bDloeGp0YmRham44
6. Keep It Judgment-Free
Create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable sharing. Emphasize that the goal is support, not critique. Resist that urge.
Some Group Journaling Words/Prompts for the New Year
- What’s one mental health goal you’re working on this year?
- What’s something you’re proud of from the past week?
- Who or what inspired you today?
- What steps did you take toward self-care this week?
- What is one thing you’d like to improve in your relationships?
Quotes to Inspire Your Journaling Journey
- “Journaling is like whispering to one’s self and listening at the same time.” – Mina Murray
- “When we share our stories, we heal each other.” – Unknown
- “Accountability is the glue that ties commitment to results.” – Bob Proctor
Why Group Journaling Works
- Encourages Consistency: Knowing others are counting on you keeps you motivated.
- Builds Deeper Connections: Sharing your thoughts can strengthen your bonds with loved ones.
- Provides Perspective: Hearing others’ reflections may inspire new insights for your own growth.
Final Thoughts
This new year, take journaling beyond the pages of a private notebook. We all need one another and running together means we go further. Let us work on trying journalling as a collaborative activity, you’ll create a powerful tool for mental health, deepen relationships, and build a community of support.
Remember: The most effective journaling practice isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, being honest, and supporting one another. Here’s to a year filled with reflection, connection, and growth!
Until next time, stay authentic,
Stay resilient, and continue to honour your needs.
Live wholeheartedly,
Amaka
