Health & Personal

How to Start Writing a Self-Esteem Journal & 7 Effective Tips to Do It Right

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If we’re not happy with who we are, we won’t be able to love ourselves. And, if we don’t love ourselves, we won’t be able to receive love from others. That means that it’s very important that we introduce daily exercises that will contribute to building a positive self-image. We need to put in the effort and work on our mental health, and self-esteem. And, one of the best ways to do so is to start writing a self-esteem journal.

If you like what you hear but aren’t sure how to do it, we’re here to help you. Below, you’ll find all the information you need to start writing a self-esteem journal and do it right.

Let’s take a closer look.

  • What is a Self-Esteem Journal?

Let’s begin by explaining what exactly is a self-esteem journal and how it works. 

A self-esteem journal is your personal journal that comprises of:

  • your emotions and feelings
  • your positive and negative experiences
  • letters to yourself
  • encouraging messages
  • motivational notes

“This is a personal journal that you’ll be keeping daily, and turning to whenever you feel the need to write. It’s your go-to resource for when you’re feeling insecure, discouraged, happy, or excited,” says Mariah Pearson, a professional writer at a term paper writing service.

The goal is to process your inner thoughts and emotions, and learn how to build a positive self-image. It’s a brilliant way to learn how to talk to yourself and understand your own needs, ideas, and feelings.

  • How to Start Writing a Self-Esteem Journal?

Many people struggle to make that first step and start writing. This is because it may seem silly or unnatural at first.

Here’s what we suggest you do:

  • prepare a notebook 
  • get comfortable
  • open the first page
  • write the first thing that comes to your mind

You can even write about feeling insecure about writing a self-esteem journal. That’s a start! Also, promise yourself you’ll go back to it every day to add a new entry.

Courage and determination are all you need for a great start.

  • 7 Effective Tips to Do it Right

Now that you’re ready to get started, let’s take a look at the tips you should follow to make the most out of your self-esteem journal.

Here’s are the simple rules you should follow for a successful self-esteem journal. 

  • Be Honest

To get in touch with your inner self, you have to be 100% open and honest. There’s nothing to be ashamed of, so lose that feeling right away.

If you start sugar coding or you leave out the part about how you really feel, there’s no point in keeping a journal. So, make sure to:

  • write honestly
  • leave out nothing
  • pour your soul out

Remember, this is just between you and the paper.

  • Don’t Think Too Much

Overthinking is an enemy to your self-esteem journal. If you tend to think about every word before you put it on paper, you won’t be able to connect to yourself. 

This is why you need to stop overthinking and follow these tips:

  • write without thinking
  • don’t stop to read previous lines
  • don’t think about structure, accuracy, or punctuation

Just keep writing for as long as you have the inspiration. This will help you get to the bottom of things and truly get to know yourself.

  • Focus on The Positive Things

We all need that extra positivity to handle the pressure of modern living. And, if you keep focusing on the negative, you won’t be able to find balance and happiness.

So, write about the positive things in your self-esteem journal:

  • the people you love
  • your dog
  • the art you enjoy
  • the nature around you
  • the warmth of your home
  • your favorite moments in the day

Give yourself a reason to feel lucky to be alive, living your life. Make sure to reflect on the best, most positive aspect of your life, even if it’s as silly as eating your favorite snack.

  • Acknowledge Your Strengths

You are your own best friend and the biggest support in life. Teach yourself to appreciate who you are by acknowledging your strengths. 

Write about the things you love about yourself:

  • your care for others
  • your love for your family
  • your qualities as a friend
  • your accomplishments

You can even boost your confidence by writing about specific actions that you took. Don’t hesitate to praise yourself. That’s the point of this writing project!

  • Write Notes to Yourself

When you’re feeling down or you start doubting yourself, grab your self-esteem journal, and write an encouraging and motivating note to yourself.

Be there for yourself and write the note you need to hear:

  • You can do this!
  • Don’t worry- it’s not as bad as it seems!
  • You are smart and skilled!
  • I love you, no matter what happens.

It’s a process, but soon you’ll find real comfort and inspiration in these messages. You’ll learn to believe them and use them to push through and strive even after the hardest moments.

  • Set Goals

Self-esteem isn’t just about teaching yourself to love who you are. It’s also about daring yourself to go a step further and try the things you’re afraid to try.

That’s why it’s important to aim high and include goal-setting in your self-esteem journal.

Write down your future goals:

  • what you want to achieve
  • how you imagine it would be when you accomplish it
  • how you plan on making it happen
  • what you need to achieve this goal 

Whenever the task seems too difficult, try to draw some encouragement from motivational literature. Also, make sure to include motivational notes in your journal for the rainy days and keep encouraging yourself to go for it. Setting goals will help you look forward to getting up in the morning and giving yourself a whole new purpose in life.

  • Write Self-Care Plans

You’re exceptional and deserve to enjoy some alone-time. Planning these self-care moments in your self-esteem journal is a great idea.

All you need to do is think of different things you love doing, and plan them out in your journal. Do it at least once a week.

It can be as simple as:

  • setting up a home spa day
  • visiting a museum
  • going out with a friend you love
  • cooking dinner for your parents
  • watching a great movie

Plan to be nice to yourself and make sure you stick to your plans. There’s nothing better than giving yourself the treatment you deserve.

Final Thoughts

Every beginning is hard, but there’s no reason for you to wait any longer. Writing a self-esteem journal can only bring you good, so make sure to try it out.

Use the tips we’ve shared above to do it right and hopefully you’ll discover the positive effects of writing a self-esteem journal. 

Estelle Liotard is a freelance writer and a blogger with years of experience covering a wide variety of topics. She specializes in writing about mental health and personal growth. She’s also a skilled proofreader and editor, and works at the best term paper writing service.

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