Sometimes you just need a place to vent, and your journal is a great place for it. For this, you can follow a structured prompt or simply free write, said licenced mental health clinician Kylie O'Driscoll, LAMFT, of Berman Psychotherapy. She sets a timer for 10 minutes and doesn't stop writing until it goes off. "This is a great practice to release all the thoughts, emotions, and fleeting ideas that pop into our heads and have the space where we can process later if we chose to do so," O'Driscoll told POPSUGAR.
You can also try a more specific prompt, like the first one listed below, suggested by licenced professional counselor Natolie Grey Warren of InPowerment Counseling & Consulting Services. This prompt, focussed on forgiveness, can help you unearth something you might be holding against yourself. "Self-forgiveness releases these thoughts and feelings and ultimately frees up mental and emotional baggage."
Try these prompts:
- I forgive myself for believing... I forgive myself for feeling...
- 10-minute free write about your emotions.