How To: Write Your Feelings Down

This year, I’m planning on doing “How To” segment! It’s going to be some things that I’ve been through in my life–I will be trying to help others navigate through the tough times and the not so though times!

Today’s “How To” is How To: Write Your Feelings Down.

First, I’d like to say that this is a very emotional cathartic experience.  Depending on what you’re planning to write, the emotions you felt (or how you’re currently feeling) will surface.  You will cry, get angry, be happy, but most of all, by the end you’ll feel as if a huge weight has been lifted off your shoulders.

Now, to start, I would suggest to find a quiet space or room to sit and really think about what you’re going to write.  Start off with “Dear (and add the name)”.  For the latest one that I did (you can read my experience here) I played some music very low in the back ground to wrap my head around all of my thoughts, so I can make them as clear as possible.  Once I got into the rhythm and started to write, I turned my music off as it was more of a distraction to me.  But it’s really up to you.  I would suggest not to take a break while writing the letter, but continue (no matter how hard it is) until you’re finished.  Take a break, then start editing. When you read it again, you’ll remember things you might want to add.  Also if you read this later in life, you will want to make sure that in the future you will understand what you were actually trying to convey.  I personally read my old letters that I’ve written (but not sent) to see how I’ve handled those experiences and see how far I’ve come.

After you’re done, reward yourself.  You’ve had an emotional day, and were very brave in deciding to write your feelings down.

It seems like a simple process, but once you sit down and really decide to write, it becomes very hard.  I’ve put off writing some letters for a while because I just didn’t want to feel those feelings again, but I’m so glad I did.  And you will do.

Let me know about your writing experiences below!