The journey toward self-love isn’t always an easy one—and it’s rarely linear. As with our physical health, our mental health can experience setbacks as well as gains, and it’s vital that we perform regular maintenance and “tune-ups.” One of the most popular (and publicized) routes to self-love and emotional well-being is self-care, an ongoing process of addressing your needs, large and small, allowing you to thrive at your fullest potential.
Self-care comes in endless forms and could be as simple as taking a shower or as complex as embarking on sweeping lifestyle changes. For some of us, journaling and other forms of creative writing play an important role in the way we fuel our happiness. If the words journaling and writing spark your interest, but the thought of a blank notebook is less than inspiring, you may want to consider getting started with a self-care workbook. Alternatively, if you’re a veteran journal enthusiast, you may find it refreshing to be guided by another voice.
Although they range in styles and types of exercises, a self-care workbook is essentially a book of ideas and prompts to get you in conversation with yourself in a loving way while helping you face obstacles to self-love and/or explore your interests and hobbies. A self-care journal can also be a wonderful complement to counseling or any other professional wellness services you’re currently or considering seeking.
So why not grab a cup of tea, your favorite hygge-inducing blanket, and peruse our selection of self-care workbooks and journals. Merry introspecting!
Our Favorite Self-Care Workbooks and Planners
The Self-Love Workbook: A Life-Changing Guide to Boost Self-Esteem, Recognize Your Worth and Find Genuine Happiness
Written by counselor and counselor-educator Shainna Ali, Ph.D., LMHC, NCC, this workbook includes interactive activities, reflective prompts, and advice on understanding and using self-love in the real world.
Who it’s for: Anyone battling self-sabotage, self-hatred, and low self-esteem; anyone seeking greater awareness of their specific needs; anyone interested in a psychological approach to the practice and benefits of self-love; anyone who’s prepared to write a lot.
Let That Sh*t Go: A Journal for Leaving Your Bullsh*t Behind and Creating a Happy Life
Does holding a constant grudge drain your energy? Do you have multiple people on your blacklist? This journal was composed with you in mind. Written with beaucoup attitude (of the best kind) and coming at you with some fierce yet delightful colloquialisms, this colorful journal is here to help you work through the BS that gets you down and focus on your awesome self.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants to boss-up and make a comeback (without a body count).
Present, Not Perfect: A Journal for Slowing Down, Letting Go, and Loving Who You Are
The pursuit of perfection can be toxic. Perfectionism often yields diminishing returns and can ultimately fuel a difficult cycle of self-critique. This beautifully illustrated workbook by Aimee Chase will help you slow down and enjoy the little things–all while reminding you that you’re wonderful the way you are.
Who it’s for: Anyone struggling with perfectionism; anyone preferring minimal writing “requirements” in favor of short activities and list-making; anyone wanting to grow her gratitude practice.
Ban.do Wellness Planner–Take Care
From the folks who’ve brought us the cutest planners for the past few years comes the Wellness Planner, a ‘gram-worthy binder full of wellness basics (from unplugging to crystals to floral arrangments). The binder also features areas where you can write down what you want to make and buy from the grocery store and even charts where you can log your water intake. (You can download more sheets when you run out.) Also, there are stickers. Just sayin’.
Who it’s for: Anyone looking to be very organized about their self-care; anyone with a planner obsession (you know who you are).
Soul Therapy: A 365 day journal for self exploration, healing and reflection
Written by Jacqueline Kademian, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and creator of Postive Soul, this workbook features 365 prompts to inspire and kindle your personal growth.
Who it’s for: Anyone seeking a straightforward approach to journaling about what inspires them and what they’re grateful for; anyone who loves writing every day and appreciates routine and structure.
Have you tried using a self-care journal?
Related: Here’s How Adaptogens Healed Me—& 7 Remarkable Ones For Your Self-Care Journey
For The Wellness Goddess On A Budget, 5 Tips For Self-Care That Saves Major $$$
3 Things I Learned From Keeping A Dream Journal—& Why It’s The Self-Care Game Changer
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Photo: Alexa Williams on Unsplash, Amazon, Shainna Ali
