Why Journaling Isn't Fun Anymore

Summary

Michelle of Seaweed Kisses discusses why journaling can stop feeling enjoyable. It may become a performance shaped by social-media aesthetics, other people’s systems, expensive supplies, or pressure to write every day. Her central point is that a journal is valuable even when its pages are messy, ordinary, unfinished, or private.

She describes “journal hopping”—moving between notebooks or formats, pausing one, or returning to it later—as a normal way to discover what suits changing needs. A pocket notebook may work better while traveling or during a busy period, while a larger notebook may suit more expansive writing and creative projects. There is no need to finish a notebook before switching.

Creative Approaches and Advice

• Experiment with formats and materials. Try different notebook sizes, page styles, brands, and writing tools. Choose what feels comfortable to use rather than what is popular or considered “best.”
• Let journaling be varied and informal. Pages can include freewriting, brief notes, gratitude, quotes, sketches, color or ink tests, lists, recipes, collages, stickers, postcards, stamps, and other ephemera.
• Accept imperfect pages. A page does not need to be polished or visually impressive to count. Small entries and rough notes can preserve thoughts, feelings, and traces of a day.
• Use accessible tools. Michelle often uses ballpoint and gel pens as well as fountain pens. She values a pen and notebook that feel inviting and practical over expensive supplies.
• Follow your own preferences. A system that looks appealing online may not fit your writing habits or needs. It is fine to outgrow a notebook, leave pages unfinished, skip pages, or keep several notebooks for different purposes.
• Keep the practice personal, especially at first. Treat the journal as something for yourself and your future self, rather than as content to perform for an audience. Share selectively if you choose.
• Manage social-media influence. Consider journaling before scrolling, and take breaks from accounts or content that create stress or guilt.
• Rest when needed. A slump does not have to be fixed by forcing yourself to write. Taking time away can help enthusiasm return.

Michelle uses her own notebooks to show that a journal can be an evolving mix of writing, reflection, art, and collected materials—not a uniform planner or a collection of perfect spreads.

Featured Creator

Michelle, host of Seaweed Kisses. No other named contributors are identified.