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Question

Unfortunately, I suffer from a variety of physical ailments that are aggravated by stress. Someone recently suggested to me that I might benefit from keeping a journal. That makes me think of adolescent "Dear Diary" stuff. How can such a thing be of benefit?

Answer

Your "dear diary" observation reflects a common first reaction to the idea of journalling. In fact, keeping a personal journal can be a very effective tool in effective stress management. Further, it is becoming more widely recognized as a valuable aid for spiritual growth.

There is much that you can do with a personal journal. Since your primary concern is with stress, you might start simply by reflecting on what seems to stress you on a daily basis. You might notice a pattern begin to emerge.

For example, let's suppose that you find yourself consistently stressed by projects put off until the last moment. This might point toward a problem with procrastination and thus a problem with fear and perfectionism. Perhaps you might find out that a consistent source of stress for you has to do with conflict with a co-worker. This might be addressed directly. What we are saying here is that a personal journal is a marvelous tool for uncovering patterns in our lives.

The journal can also be a safe place where we can vent frustration. Let's suppose you have an overbearing boss. Use your journal to write him/her an angry letter. Let him/her have it, cuss words and all. Just don't mail the letter! Such a tool not only allows for safe ventilation but can also lead to deeper understanding. As you write to your boss, for example, you might realize that you are contributing to the problem with a defensive attitude.

In terms of spiritual growth, a journal can be a place where we explore our doubts, where we confront our character defects, where we address resentments (all potential sources of stress). There is a long and beautiful tradition of spiritual journals. You might enjoy and be inspired by spiritual journals of Dietrick Bonhoeffer, Pope John XXIII, Annie Dillard, or Thomas Merton. Remember, too, that some classics of literature such as "The Diary of Anne Frank" are essentially spiritual journals.

My suggestion is that you make a commitment to try journalling for thirty days. Most people find during that period of time whether this tool is useful for them.

03/14/98

Richard B. Patterson is a clinical psychologist in private practice in El Paso, TX. He is the author of three books on psychology and spirituality.