Chapter 1: The Weight of Journaling

For approximately three to four years, I dedicated myself to journaling, focusing primarily on Bullet Journaling. Among the various journaling methods I experimented with, Bullet Journaling proved to be the most beneficial for me. It provided adaptability, flexibility, accessibility across different platforms, and a level of customization that I valued.

However, over time, it evolved into a chore—a task I pressured myself to complete, often treating it as just another item to check off my daily agenda. Ironically, while journaling is intended to help manage and track tasks, it became an additional task that contributed to my stress.

My perfectionist tendencies drove me to constantly refine and enhance my journaling process, in pursuit of becoming "better" at it. Eventually, I found myself questioning, “What’s the purpose of this journaling?” Ultimately, it became nothing more than a daily log.

I realized that journaling failed to bring me joy. Instead of using it as a tool to enhance my life, happiness, and satisfaction, I was merely adhering to the concept of it, without reaping the intended benefits.

Chapter 2: A New Approach to Self-Expression

What replaced my journaling practice? When inspiration strikes, I write on Medium. Occasionally, I document significant events or milestones, but only when they warrant that level of investment. For daily logging, I now rely on my calendars. For to-do lists, I’ve embraced the simplicity of 3x5 index cards, which I often discard at the end of the day. I’ve discovered that there’s no necessity to record or archive the majority of my daily activities. Instead, I prefer to savor the moments rather than document them.

For ongoing tasks or project planning, I utilize long-form text in Bear Notes. Any tool will suffice.

The realization I’ve come to, which is challenging for me to fully embrace, is that life transcends tools, life-hacking, or meticulous record-keeping; it’s about experiencing life itself.

The act of articulating my thoughts now feels more effective and fulfilling than any structured daily journaling I previously engaged in. This post emerged spontaneously; I paused my current activities to write, relishing the creative process.

Whether anyone reads it isn’t the crux of the matter. The essence lies in my self-expression and the ongoing journey of self-discovery that fosters a more joyful life experience. Stepping away from journaling has streamlined my life.

In the wise words of Bruce Lee,

“Absorb what is useful, discard what is useless, and add what is specifically your own.”

Simplifying life by eliminating burdensome practices has proven to be worthwhile.

I was about to quit Journaling.. But then something changed.

This video discusses the challenges faced in the journaling process and the transformative moments that can reignite one’s passion for self-reflection.

Why I stopped bullet journaling for 6 months

This video explores the reasons behind taking a break from bullet journaling, reflecting on the impact it had on personal growth and well-being.