Reading time: 3 minutes.
Between lectures, assignments, work and everything else life throws at you, it can be hard to slow down and check in with yourself. Journaling is one simple habit that can help.
Even five minutes of writing down what’s on your mind can help you process your thoughts, reduce stress and feel more in control of your day.
So, what is journaling?
Journaling is the practice of writing down your thoughts, feelings, experiences or ideas. While some people use it like a diary, it can also be a space to reflect, solve problems, set goals or simply clear your mind.
Think of it as a conversation with yourself: there’s no right or wrong way to do it.
Why should students journal?
It helps you manage stress
Writing things down creates a little distance between you and your worries. Instead of keeping everything in your head, you can unpack what’s bothering you and process it more clearly. Many psychologists use journaling as a wellbeing tool because it helps people work through emotions in a healthy way.
It keeps you connected to your goals
Whether you’re working towards graduating, building better study habits or balancing university with work, journaling helps you reflect on where you’re headed. Looking back at previous entries can also remind you how much you’ve grown.
It can make studying easier
Ever stared at a blank document with no idea how to start an assignment? Free writing in a journal can help break through creative blocks. Without worrying about grammar or structure, you can organise your thoughts and develop ideas before turning them into academic writing.
It builds self-awareness
The more regularly you reflect, the easier it becomes to recognise patterns in your mood, energy and motivation. Understanding what helps you feel your best can make it easier to look after your wellbeing throughout semester.
How to start a journaling habit
The best journal is the one you’ll actually use. A notebook, your Notes app or a digital journal all work just as well. Here are three easy ways to begin:
- Start with five minutes
Choose a consistent time, like before your first class or before bed, and write whatever comes to mind. Don’t overthink it.
- Use simple prompts
If you’re not sure what to write, try answering one question each day:
- How am I feeling today?
- What’s something I’m proud of?
- What challenged me this week?
- What’s one thing I learned today?
- What do I want to focus on tomorrow?
- Celebrate the small wins
Not every journal entry needs to be about what’s stressing you out. Write about the good things too: finishing an assignment, making a new friend, or simply getting through a busy week. Those small wins are worth remembering.
Remember: there’s no right way to journal. Some days you’ll write a page. Other days it might just be one sentence. What matters isn’t how much you write, it’s giving yourself permission to pause, reflect and check in with yourself.
You can also check in with yourself through the Wellbeing tool on OASIS. Just visit Support > Wellbeing in OASIS to explore personalised wellbeing resources designed to support you throughout your university journey or simply click here.
