10 Fun and Surprising Facts About Journaling You Didn’t Know
Journaling is more than just putting thoughts on paper—it’s a powerful tool that has been used for centuries for self-expression, creativity, and even healing. Whether you're jotting down daily reflections, setting goals, or doodling away, keeping a journal has some unexpected benefits. Let’s dive into 10 fun and surprising facts about journaling that might just inspire you to pick up your pen!
1. Journaling Can Boost Your IQ
Yep, you read that right! Writing regularly helps improve language skills, comprehension, and critical thinking—all of which contribute to a higher IQ. Studies have shown that expressive writing strengthens cognitive functions, making you a sharper thinker.
2. It’s Like a Free Therapy Session
Journaling allows you to process emotions and reduce stress, much like talking to a therapist. In fact, studies suggest that expressive writing helps people cope with trauma and anxiety by organizing thoughts and emotions in a healthy way.
3. Journaling Improves Your Sleep
Struggling with restless nights? Writing in a journal before bed—especially about positive events—can help clear your mind and reduce bedtime anxiety. A study from the University of Texas found that people who journal before bed fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.
4. It Enhances Creativity
Many famous writers, artists, and inventors, from Leonardo da Vinci to Virginia Woolf, used journaling as a creative outlet. Doodling, freewriting, or even brainstorming ideas in a journal can unlock creativity and inspire new ideas.
5. Handwriting Triggers Brain Activity That Typing Can’t
While typing is efficient, handwriting activates more areas of the brain associated with learning and memory. This is why many experts recommend writing by hand when taking notes or brainstorming ideas—it helps with retention and comprehension.
6. Journaling Can Strengthen Your Immune System
Believe it or not, writing about emotions and stressful experiences can actually improve your physical health. Research shows that journaling boosts immune function by reducing stress-related hormones and increasing the body's ability to fight infections.
7. Bullet Journaling Started as a Productivity Hack
The popular bullet journaling method, also known as BuJo, was created by designer Ryder Carroll as a way to organize tasks and thoughts efficiently. It has since evolved into a global phenomenon, helping people track habits, goals, and mental health.
8. Gratitude Journaling Can Make You Happier
Writing down things you’re grateful for can significantly boost your mood and overall well-being. Studies show that practicing gratitude through journaling increases positive emotions and reduces depression over time.
9. Journals Hold Historical Secrets
Some of the most valuable historical insights come from personal journals. Anne Frank’s diary, Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, and even the journals of explorers like Lewis and Clark provide firsthand accounts of history. Who knows—maybe your journal will be a treasured artifact one day!
10. Journaling Can Help You Manifest Your Goals
Writing down your goals makes them feel more real and increases the likelihood of achieving them. Studies have found that people who write down their goals are 42% more likely to accomplish them than those who don’t.
Ready to Start Journaling?
Whether you’re looking to improve your mental health, boost creativity, or simply keep track of daily life, journaling is a powerful habit with countless benefits. So grab a notebook and start writing—you never know what fun discoveries you’ll make along the way!
Do you journal? What’s your favorite journaling method? Let me know in the comments!