Why I Write a Diary and You Should Too

Diary (noun): a book in which one keeps a daily record of events and experiences.

If we strip back all the connotations and pre-conceptions about this word, at its very essence, a diary is a written reflection of you: clearer than a mirror and immensely more valuable. So, why, in this busy world of ours, should you take the time to write a diary?

Diaries Aren’t Just for Wimpy Kids

There are many common misconceptions and assumptions about diaries, so let’s not judge these books by their covers.

First of all, writing has no gender and neither does the word ‘diary’, so let’s move past that right away. Also, diaries are not just for kids or narcissists; some of the most influential literary works of all time are diaries. From Anne Frank to Andy Warhol, diaries have shaped the way we look at ourselves and the world. So, what are you waiting for?

Stress Less

Being a student can be stressful and on more than one occasion, exams and assignments have pushed me to breaking point. So, how have I managed to remain a functioning member of society? Yes, you guessed it: by keeping a diary.

Writing down how you feel can be a fantastically cathartic experience. Seeing your fears, anxieties and hopes written out before you can be calming and give you much needed perspective in times of high pressure.

Stream of consciousness writing is an excellent technique to try; it can articulate the thoughts and ideas that are shooting through your mind. Just give yourself five minutes to write and don’t stop. Don’t be surprised if those five minutes become fifteen or fifty. Enjoy the deep breath you’ll take after you cross your last ‘t’ and dot your last ‘i’. Diary writing is the cheapest, most productive form of meditation I know.

Writing is Right for You

Writing is a skill extremely under-recognised by so many. It is a privilege not everyone can enjoy, so those of us who are lucky enough to use it must embrace it, wholeheartedly.

Writing is a necessity in our lives, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. It is so much more than the essays you have to endure during school or university; it is a method of communication and an art form. Writing can represent emotions and thoughts; it can whisk you far away from where you are or bring you much closer to how you feel. Writing a diary means you can write in the way that’s right for you, and build life skills while you do it.

Your Written Reflection

Having a diary also gives you perspective. Once you write an entry, you may not revisit it for months or years, but when you do, you can look back on a specific time in your life with the knowledge you have now. I guarantee you’ll be surprised how much has changed.

Having the ability to reflect on the people, places and moments—big and small—that impact our lives allows us to have a clearer understanding of ourselves.

Mirrors reflect us skin deep, but diaries go so much further. They allow you to ask and answer so many questions: Where have you been? Where are you now? Where do you want to go? Writing about the present and reading about the past can inform the way you see future.

Me, Myself and I

The greatest thing about diaries is that they are personal. You are unique and what you write will be too. There is no judgment when you write in your diary; no pressure, no expectations. It’s just a blank page, a pen and you. How you use your diary is up to you. Write as much or as little as you like, but as soon as the pen hits the paper, you’ll know it’s right.

Xavier Hazard is one of Student Edge’s student contributors. Learn more about the contributor program.

Photo: Universal