Writing about my life has always been a private thing. I journal with pen and paper nearly every day, dumping my thoughts like I’m unloading a cluttered junk drawer. Since it’s just for me, there’s no pressure to make sense—I just let it all spill out. And sometimes, I surprise myself. I’ll read an entry from a year ago and think, Wow, I was really going through it… or possibly just severely sleep-deprived. Either way, my journal never judges.
Honestly, my journal is my best friend. It’s always there—dependable, patient, and doesn’t talk back. I always know where it is (which is more than I can say for my keys). When I’m angry, it doesn’t take offense. When I cry, it soaks up the tears like a champ. It knows everything about me and still sticks around. That’s loyalty.
But writing like this? Publicly? That’s a whole new experience. Now, I’m sharing thoughts and feelings that were once kept between me and my beloved, ink-filled confidant. It’s like inviting people to read pages of my diary—except this time, I’m voluntarily handing them over instead of panicking when someone finds it.
Yesterday’s post was tough to write. It dragged some old memories out of the dark corners of my mind, dusted them off, and waved them around like an overenthusiastic yard sale vendor. It left me feeling a little anxious, so I did what any rational person would do: I went to the gym to work through it. A little movement, a little sweat, and suddenly, I had a clearer mind and could come home, finish the post, and hit publish.
I started this blog thanks to the encouragement of my therapist and my other best friend—the human one. They both think this is a great idea (so if this goes sideways, I know who to blame). That said, I know I need to find balance. I still have a full life to live, which includes continuing therapy and, apparently, becoming a blogger. I’ll figure it out as I go.
If you’ve never journaled before, consider giving it a try. You don’t have to be a writer, and it doesn’t have to be perfect—just grab a notebook (or a napkin, if you’re feeling spontaneous) and start putting your thoughts down. Write about your day, your feelings, or even what you had for lunch. No rules, no pressure, just you and your thoughts. You might be surprised at what comes out. I’ve even doodled and painted with watercolors—because sometimes, thoughts refuse to be words and would rather be weird little squiggles instead. And hey, worst-case scenario? You create some entertaining reading (or artwork) for your future self.
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. Don’t forget to take care of yourself this week—whether that’s journaling, a little self-care, or just an extra snack. You deserve it.
May your journal be your best friend,
Molly's Not-So-Secret Diary 