Maybe you kept a diary as a kid, or you scrawled down your thoughts in a notebook as part of a class project in middle or high school. Well, it’s time to pick up that pencil (or pen) again! Journaling is an easy way to get your creative juices flowing and your mental gears turning—plus, it’s great practice for all of those essays you have to write. The physical act of writing taps into your analytical left brain, while the thought needed to come up with what to actually write opens up your creative, emotional right brain. When both parts are working together, you get the best of both worlds. For example, writing down the events of your day helps you when it comes time to write that long biology report next week. Venturing into your thoughts and feelings in your journal opens the door to new ideas and solutions to any problems you may have been stuck on in either your homework or a personal situation.
Journaling doesn’t need to take up a ton of time, either: just 15–20 minutes a day can increase your vocabulary, memory, and comprehension skills; bring clarity to any confusing thoughts; and help you feel relaxed and focused. Tailor your journal to what you need: inspirational quotes and writing prompts, bullet points to keep track of homework or plan out social events, things you’re proud of, situations you’re struggling with, or goals you want to work on.