A one word journal uses a single daily word to encapsulate essence and emotion.

Some key things about one word journals:

• They encourage brevity and mindfulness - the writer must think carefully about choosing just the right word to encapsulate the day. This process can help people be more intentional.

• The single words are often like shorthand emotional notes or a one-word summary of a key event. For example, someone might write "happy" on a good day or "tired" after a long day at work.

• Looking back on the collection of words can provide a snapshot of the different experiences and emotions felt over time. It distils the journal down to its essence.

• The single word entries are quick and easy to do each day, making it a convenient journaling habit to maintain.

• It can be interesting to look back on patterns in the words over time or to flip through and notice shifts in tone or focus.

• The entries don't necessarily need to make logical sense; it's more about capturing a subjective impression or moment in time.

Stressed

However, you can also use a key question to help you explore your one word and your feelings.

Question: What feelings does this word bring up for me, and why?

Dear journal,

Seeing the word "stressed" in my one word journal today makes me realise just how overwhelmed I'm feeling lately. As a young woman in my 20s juggling work, relationships, and personal goals, stress has become an unwelcome yet familiar friend.

This word evokes feelings of anxiety, frustration, and being emotionally drained. I've just started a new job that's demanding a lot from me. I'm trying to learn the ropes while also meeting tight deadlines. My to-do list keeps growing, and it's left me feeling buried. No matter how much I try to keep up, I end up staying late and still feeling behind. The pressure to perform and prove myself is intense.

In my personal life, I've been facing difficulties with my partner that leave me tense and preoccupied. We've been arguing more, struggling to communicate. My mind swirls with uncertainty about the relationship. All this has led to many sleepless nights and a constant pit in my stomach.

I know I put a lot of pressure on myself, and I don't ask for help often enough. I've taken on too many responsibilities without good boundaries. It's left me exhausted and emotionally tapped out.

Choosing "stressed" today reminds me that I need to take better care of myself. I can't keep operating in crisis mode or my health and relationships will suffer. This feeling is a sign that I need to prioritise self-care, reach out for support, and make changes so I can find more calm and balance. Though the pressures won't disappear overnight, reflecting on this gives me determination to start carving out ways to reduce stress and anxiety.

I deserve peace.

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