Transparency Item: The Perspectives section of the Graphic includes an advice column based on new topics and different writers’ thoughts. This is the opinion and perspective of the writer.
Hey Waves,
College encompasses precious stages of life.
You may meet your lifelong best friend, experience the most tearful breakup or encounter important mentors within those four years.
There are too many memorable moments that the busy daily routine can easily sweep away.
Posting photos on social media can be a good way to retain those memories, but there are times when pictures can’t capture everything.
Keep a journal for all the random ideas and nuanced emotions in everyday life. It doesn’t have to be two pages of well-organized self-reflection.
Jot down your thoughts that emerge from the tiniest things: the kindness of a stranger, the worst movie you have ever seen or an inspiring conversation that changed your perspectives.
The journal can serve as a treasure box of your college highlights or a scratch pad to vent your sadness.
Narrating experiences is a great way to straighten out your thoughts, process complex feelings and restore calm.
Don’t make it an obligation, but turn it into a fun activity to look forward to.
Whenever you experience an exhilarating or sentimental moment, the words may just begin to flow from beneath your pen when the time is right.
Select a journal with an appealing style, whether it has an artistic floral cover or features a funny quote. Use your markers and Polaroid photos to decorate it.
Digital journals are also great choices. Be creative and unrestricted, even if it’s just attaching two lines of captions to photos in your camera roll.
Start journaling. It allows you to become more aware of your ever-changing environment as well as your personal growth.
Looking back years after college, when the low point has passed, the sense of fulfillment you experienced will still leave a pleasant taste.
With care,
___________________
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Contact Laury Li via email: yuting.li2@pepperdine.edu or by Instagram: @laury__li