In honour of Taylor Swift's release of her new album, I thought it would be timely to release this blog post today!
Whether or not you like Taylor Swift, there is a method to her madness. Research shows that writing (lyrics, journalling, guided prompts) can help to release emotions. We may not all financially benefit from heartbreak like Taylor has, but we can emotionally benefit from writing down our feelings.
Psychological benefits of writing your thoughts and feelings include:
reduced anxiety
overall improvement in mood
reduced depressive symptoms
lowered blood pressure
I am, admittedly, not interested in freeform writing or lyrical. I find the blank page to be overwhelming and I can get anxious with an open space. What I DO like and what flows easily for me is directive writing or conversational writing. Directive writing is when I use journal prompts or ask myself specific questions to answer. Conversation writing is writing as though you are texting, emailing or speaking with a specific person. Conversation writing or journalling is especially effective if the person you want to speak to isn't available (either physically or emotionally).
WHEN WE KNOW HOW WE FEEL
At a time in my life when all I wanted was a conversation with someone and wasn't able to, writing provided an amazing release. Conversations were had on paper and my feelings felt heard as I poured onto the page, in the absence of those conversations actually taking place. Signs that we have something to say can include ruminating or obsessing over a situation.
Writing can also help to organize our feelings and ideas. If you are preparing to talk to your boss, co-worker, friend, doctor, co-parent, etc. it is helpful to organize your thoughts and prioritize your needs. Even when we know how we feel, putting them on the page can help sort through them. Maybe there is a common idea or concern that overarches a bunch of examples. Perhaps addressing the umbrella concern can help with the significant amount of small issues that are building. This technique is especially helpful when working with your co-parent.
WHEN WE DON'T KNOW HOW WE FEEL
Writing can be an effective way to explore how you feel as well. How many times have we said we were fine or went along with a situation that later made us feel uncomfortable? With freeform journalling or conversational journalling can look back at past writings and identify themes that you may want to focus on going forward. Look for words that keep coming up or feelings that are repeatedly called on.
Writing is a great way to explore feelings and help regulate them. Personal growth practices involving self-exploration and writing can create a sense of empowerment and control. Writing can also help provide empathy to others. When we use an explorative lens, we remove judgment and allow curiosity to flow allowing greater understanding.
TIPS TO HELP YOU START WRITING
Purchase a journal and leave it somewhere where are likely to see it and it's easily accessible.
Grab some cute pens or a bookmark. Something that entices you to want to start.
Create the opportunity to write. This can be a formal schedule or can fall into free time as an activity option.
Free flow write. No need to cross things out or spell check. Just get it out on paper.
Don't set expectations (like an elementary book report word count).
Ask yourself inquisitive questions
Start small. A few sentences is always enough.
There are no rules. Draw, paint, vision board, stamp, write, doodle. Just start.
