When people try to envision a “writer,” what comes to their minds is a hermit-like individual, hunched over a desk, and obsessively working on the next great novel. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, though, ‘writing’ refers to “the way that you use written words to express your ideas or opinions.” That simple definition makes all of us writers – even if you don’t think you have the talent to spin a sensible prose.
The thing about writing is that it can be an amazingly useful outlet for most people, but in this post, let’s take a look at some of its psychological benefits.
Writing Improves Your Communication Skills
Since writing forces you to intentionally lay out your ideas on paper for you to see, it helps you to better communicate what could have been jumbled up ideas in your head. Regular writing can help you avoid stumbling with words whenever you want to describe your feelings or share your experiences with others.
Writing May Be a Good Outlet During Hard Times
Though complex, studies show that there’s a connection between writing and traumatic events. The results may differ for people, though. For instance, one study shows that people who are especially stoic tend not to get a log of benefits from writing about their problems. On the other hand, there are some interesting studies that show how writing about a traumatic experience can be a powerful tool to help cope up with stress and depression.
Writing Alleviates Stress
Speaking of stress, it has been found that writing is an excellent way to deal with many thoughts at the same time. Whenever you feel that your brain is like an internet browser that has too many tabs open simultaneously, try taking out your pen and paper and begin to write. Writing lets you free up thinking space by allowing abstract ideas and information to cross over from your mind and into the tangible realm. Getting crucial ideas in paper helps alleviate the stress caused by overthinking.
Writing Keeps Your Mind Sharp
Just like your physical muscles, your mind also need regular workout in order to stay in shape. As you grow, your mental health gradually declines, but you can delay the onset of mental aging through writing. Writing is a form of a cognitive exercise. It keeps you thinking on a regular basis and prevents rust from forming in your brain.
Writing Makes You Happy
Expressive writing, in particular, has been found to have therapeutic values. People who engage in it regularly have reduced stress levels, improved well-being, and better moods. It doesn’t necessarily mean spending hours writing long essays about what you are feeling at the moment. Studies show that a simple writing activity as blogging is enough to activate a constellation of neurological pathways that can lead to a happier state of mind.
Writing can also lead to more feelings and thoughts of gratitude, enhancing your overall outlook on life. Simply by reflecting on the things that you have in life and listing your blessings down on paper, you can be more motivated and have a more positive perception about your current situation as well as your future.
Whether it’s writing down an idea from a Eureka moment, or pouring yourself onto an entire page on your diary, there’s no doubt that starting to write today will bring about stellar effects in your life.
Books on Writing
Writing Tools – 50 Essential Strategies for Every Writer
The Book on Writing
On Writing Well, 30th Anniversary Edition – The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction
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