Pendulum Magazine

View Original

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU || Journaling for Wellness with 'Find the Balance in Blank Pages'

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, many of us set bold resolutions: exercise more, eat healthier, or finally tackle that passion project. 

But as the initial excitement fades, maintaining those lofty goals often feels overwhelming. This year, I’ve decided to try something different—something simpler yet deeply transformative. I’m starting my journey to wellness with a journal titled "Find the Balance in Blank Pages."

Photo Credits: Papier

To be completely honest, I was attracted to this book because of the aesthetic cover, but when I opened it, I noticed that the prompts are quite nice, unlike some journals that force you to think a lot. This one is more like what you aspire to achieve, when you have the most energy, and what makes you feel the best. 

I’ve realized that journaling is more than just putting pen to paper. It’s a space to reflect, plan, and dream. For me, it’s become a tool to anchor myself amidst the chaos of modern life. "Find the Balance in Blank Pages" isn’t just any journal; it’s a guide to rediscovering clarity, intention, and self-compassion.

Why This Journal?

What drew me to "Find the Balance in Blank Pages" was its unique approach. It’s not about filling pages with to-do lists or rigid schedules. Instead, it invites you to explore open-ended prompts that inspire self-awareness. The journal’s design encourages a balance between structure and creativity—a perfect blend for someone like me, who thrives on reflection but often feels constrained by traditional planners.

It starts off easy, asking you to rate your current wellness in six categories: energy, mind, movement, nourishment, connection, and rest. Once you have a clear picture of where you currently stand, it’s easier for you to improve and monitor your progress.

Photo Credits: Papier

I can’t say I’ve noticed any improvement in mental health because I just started, and to be consistent in this journal is my goal for 2025. However, this journal allows me to think about my day before it starts, and reflect on it at the end.

Some of the prompts that spoke to me include:

  • "What does balance look like in your life right now?"

  • "Name three small actions you can take today to care for your mind and body."

  • "What’s something you’re proud of this week?"

These questions aren’t just surface-level; they gently push you to dig deeper, helping you uncover what truly matters.

My Plan for the Year Ahead

Using "Find the Balance in Blank Pages," I’ve mapped out a simple approach:

Photo Credits: Papier

At the end of the week, you can see all your entries for the past 7 days and reflect on how you think the week went. I think it will help me keep track of the big and small impacts I’ve made on my life.

  1. Morning Check-Ins: Each day, I’ll start with a five-minute journaling session to set the tone for the day.

  2. Weekly Reflections: Every Sunday, I’ll revisit the week’s entries to celebrate progress and adjust my focus for the week ahead.

  3. Monthly Goals: At the beginning of each month, I’ll use the journal’s guided sections to outline wellness goals—whether it’s practicing gratitude, drinking more water, or taking evening walks.

It’s not about perfection or productivity—it’s about progress and peace. Journaling has already started to shift how I approach my days, and I’m excited to see where this journey leads.