Self-improvement

Unlocking Happiness: How Positive Psychology Can Change Your Life

<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-19959" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2023-01-25t170518193jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2023-01-25T170518.193.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img title="life questions" class="media-element file-default" data-delta="1" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202023-01-25T170518.193.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331703&amp;Signature=JjmClt7Dz%2FeD%2FYP%2B6eNhmjZf7%2F%2BNZIXVJ0huX9rOxOojISgnUPgoM1b%2BCEpPYCKlVVBjC8aK9UCGwNQoRxYBicgcvhFmhxCdFIYN8uMPR61YQwd98hosU1kh8%2BmEzn8NhkRMY67AjW9gPe6nfkqWR%2F3ty14%2BUxrrUbyasF3JA8m%2FsVOUq4GomPJ8c0rc7VBfxLzwjfBmwNmDH4HnFvkqkAyZ4%2Ff3xT3VuQ3e8VJRBdLwtDpKl9ShzwRULLKpQ4zSEtJofLuE%2FAUQi44na6RndVBxBHKAyRBnsFbrHh%2BWX2XIKQg3sTKVaBIe%2F4W8oTSfEH%2BWi0o43mY3QzFSANkdOA%3D%3D" alt="girl walking on bridge" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">As we go through life, we are faced with many questions. For example, who are we? Where are we from? These questions are crucial to understanding our place in the world. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">My Stories Matter is here to help you explore these questions and discover the answers through your own life stories.</b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">Life Questions to Ponder </b></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">My Stories Matter provides various life question prompts designed to inspire reflection and encourage you to delve deep into your own experiences. These prompts will help you uncover the hidden aspects of your life and explore the emotions, thoughts, and feelings that have shaped who you are today. </b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">If you sign up, here is a list of crucial prompts My Stories Matter will ask: </b></p>
<ol>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“What was your most significant childhood experience?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“What have been the most defining moments of your life?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“How have your experiences shaped your beliefs?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“Who have you looked up to over the years and why?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“What is the best advice you have ever received?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“What is a tough obstacle in your life that you overcame?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“How would you like people to remember you?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“If you could go back in time, what wisdom would you give your younger self?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“What was a pivotal turning point in your life?”</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">“How has your role model influenced you?”</b></p>
</li>
</ol>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">These prompts can help you understand more about yourself and your experiences and answer some of the life questions lingering in your mind.</b></p>
<p> </p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-19960" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2023-01-25t170457228jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2023-01-25T170457.228.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img title="life questions" class="media-element file-default" data-delta="2" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202023-01-25T170457.228.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331703&amp;Signature=FLUS%2Fb4pleN5dZCDABf62m4O6vzQNcYfV5wKz1jxcMoALnYcJoeCgBIQqbJ4vaD9ziycWCdf%2FkcFAZ08LVKD9MAymxsiUfp%2BnHdY80PTnttYNY7YZUILsdsND6%2FLY6eM3cP0%2BVJu%2F4OoFY6rFxUa4CPD6cpdiUxsYN%2Bx1AEUDi1cUehDRpqvvXAG4tc6DgFceviU2%2Fmk3LAPXVKGYzYlV7AzxNmQjX%2BFbo3o53xEZiYEpt65%2FEuuAYgoS76SA6a2kjxAyAnZdIPizFZ6v%2BDCHiGmS6R%2FtlKVbR87PuhL0dCfq01wYz1QnXAjveM%2BYwrQHrQCc%2Bh5WS3IMFVs6mikTQ%3D%3D" alt="butterflies on the ground" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">Craft Your Life Story</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">My Stories Matter has an assisted writing feature that can help you put your thoughts into words. Our writers will work with you to craft a narrative that captures your story and the emotions that go with it, helping you to answer the life questions you have been asking yourself. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">Sharing your life story can be a powerful way to connect with others. It can also leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Once your life story is complete, you can share it with loved ones or make it public. You can also print a physical copy to flip through the pages whenever you need a reminder of your journey.</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">Answering life questions can be a challenging journey, but it can also be a deeply rewarding one. With My Stories Matter, you'll have the tools and resources you need to explore your stories and find the answers to the life questions that are most meaningful to you. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c3a5f85a-7fff-1cff-ab89-2c93b3251d1d">Whether you're looking for a way to understand your past, present, or future, My Stories Matter is here to help. Find out more <a href="https://book.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="life questions">here</a>, and <a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="life questions">sign up</a> for free!</b></p>


10 Questions to Ask Yourself for a Happy Life 

<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-19288" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2023-01-03t132925622jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2023-01-03T132925.622.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img title="my stories matter" class="media-element file-default" data-delta="1" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202023-01-03T132925.622.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331703&amp;Signature=P%2BX7DITXGQzoS8f1osB%2BNp5tE5XZPggd2XqJGizkaqSd%2FGv341cBreyVUCrX6D%2FeYKjw1v3nz1cz5oyxdTpiIkr0ad2hdCZzKHigy6QQQI74%2B1vOyxTvS8yogYS%2FUqh1IW83DDa0hHswTqOA%2F%2Bz3IPxVWD0marYu8vj9U9esdzryNYY%2FXWOq98Jk6UBQedKdSlcGDPsGN10nSv2kdgaY8rlFtLM%2FJRPwbmA4xqfN%2Fkh5cXG%2FRDidcFOA8CrWh2lUC%2Bg4GxOHhovoksid6yFvqbSqykoxD4%2BNtYl6yYyM6uua%2FNmruMLRsSNTL33ClSfWJB9doxT5yWV6JSvTuD%2BNWg%3D%3D" alt="A journal" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Journaling is a powerful tool that can help you process your thoughts and emotions, set and track goals, and even <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6305886/" title="journaling ">improve your mental and physical health</a>.</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">There are many <a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/blog/post/the-many-cognitive-benefits-of-journaling" title="journaling ">cognitive benefits of journaling</a>. Though journaling is a personal activity, making your writings coherent and grammar-checked can allow your family or offspring to read your work and establish your legacy after you're gone. So making your writing readable is critical!</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">We’ve compiled seven crucial tips to help you get the most out of your journaling practice.</b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Make it a Daily Habit </b></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Consistency is vital in journaling, so try to make it a daily practice. Set aside a specific time each day to write in your journal, and stick to it as much as possible. This will not only help you develop the habit but also give you a regular opportunity to reflect on your experiences and emotions.</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">In one study, expressive writing (like journaling) for only <a href="https://mic.com/articles/110662/science-shows-something-surprising-about-people-who-still-journal#.n0QO5ApTN" title="journaling ">15 to 20 minutes a day three to five times</a> over four months was enough to lower blood pressure and improve liver functionality! </b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="Journaling ">My Stories Matter</a> helps you maintain a regular journaling practice by generating ideas for your entries and setting reminders and goals to help you stay on track.</b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Write Freely and Without Judgment </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">When journaling, it's essential to let go of judgments or self-censorship. Worry about grammar after! For now, let your thoughts and emotions flow onto the page. This will help you to be honest and open with yourself and make the process more therapeutic. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="Journaling ">My Stories Matter</a> offers several unique features that make it perfect for exploring and expressing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. You can connect and share your stories, providing a supportive and understanding audience for your journaling. </b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Be Specific and Detailed</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Be as specific and detailed as possible to get the most out of your journaling. Instead of just writing that you're "feeling stressed," try to identify what is causing that stress and how it affects you. This will help you better understand your emotions and experiences and make it easier to identify patterns and make positive changes.</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">A study of nearly 100 young adults was asked to spend 15 minutes journaling, drawing about a distressing experience, or writing about their day’s plans twice a week. People who journaled experienced the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0197455605000699?via%3Dihub" title="Journaling ">most significant reduction in symptoms such as despair, anxiety, and aggression</a>, especially if they were already upset.</b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Use Prompts to Get Started</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">If you're having trouble getting started, try using prompts to kick-start your writing. These can be questions or even words that inspire you to write. <a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="Journaling ">My Stories Matter</a> has endless prompts for you, such as: </b></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">What has surprised you in life? </b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Who have you looked up to over the years, and why? </b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">What are some memorable moments from this year? </b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">What did you do on your very first date with your spouse? </b></p>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Reflect on Your Writing</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Once you've finished writing, take a few moments to reflect on what you've written. What insights did you gain? What patterns did you notice? What emotions or experiences stood out to you? </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">By taking the time to reflect on your writing, you'll be able to understand yourself and your adventures better, and you'll be able to identify areas where you can make positive changes. For example, a study found that students and faculty found reflective journaling to <a href="https://journals.healio.com/doi/10.3928/01484834-20160114-08" title="journaling ">help develop critical thinking skills</a>. </b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Experiment with Different Formats</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Journaling doesn't have to be limited to writing in a traditional notebook – you can try many different formats. Some people prefer a journaling app on their phone or computer, while others prefer a journaling kit with prompts and exercises. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">My Stories Matter offers you variety to find your perfect fit when journaling. Have the ability to organize your entries in Collections. Or, try one of our limited edition Writing Challenges that focus on a theme or aspect of journaling.  </b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Keep Your Journal Private </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693">Your journal is a personal space where you can be sincere and open with yourself. Don’t share it with others unless you feel comfortable doing so! </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="Journaling ">My Stories Matter</a> places a strong emphasis on privacy. Unlike other social media apps, you can control who can see your entries, including setting them as private or sharing them with select individuals or groups. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-28a2e2b5-7fff-78cf-d5d0-ad795bd07693"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="Journaling ">Start journaling</a> today! </b></p>


7 Must-Have Tips on Journaling 

<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18785" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2022-11-08t193701362jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2022-11-08T193701.362.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="1" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202022-11-08T193701.362.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=obviJn%2F3UxkZdOmwB120ZEZdrsi%2FJBLLSQZnyUCKfbjoHpmXGBGe3x1sdvFr9%2FEhSfM0YQXbdD51ygBAXG%2FxXpO1IaK37GvDJ48Jl0iwJDh9ouodVV4kIPAAty02pxOTEfh1T9tYXqQU37lgMcSytZVtS46z%2BPOBz7T1QqkgUzt2SuuYthmRuuA3AHJTVRPlCf%2Brp%2FAszOu1iUVIkKGXDdUoh9BWGuNNgdcErTItoYbIFypcTw1UKCXAJ%2FpLXe5NjCc%2Bfr91J5n1motv5YK33uW7YKU%2FeykOXRBUk8JrcS%2FoHF541iXjnktWyo2TnOr%2B9%2BN7RT3cnr0axlU7YhyQuQ%3D%3D" alt="Glasses toasting" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Life moves fast between taking the kids to school, making that family thanksgiving buffet, running daily errands, and attending work meetings. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Are there still goals you want to achieve, dreams you wish to realize? It’s never too late! </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">We’ve included a groundbreaking study that supports living your life to the fullest. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9"><a href="https://bronnieware.com/regrets-of-the-dying/" title="regrets of the dying">Bronnie Ware</a> is an Australian palliative nurse who spent years caring for the dying in the last three months of their lives. She said, “When questioned about any regrets they had or anything they would do differently, common themes surfaced repeatedly.”</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">She put together the <a href="https://bronnieware.com/regrets-of-the-dying/" title="regrets of the dying">five most common regrets</a> of people moments away from their last breath. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">What were these common regrets? </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Read on to find out!</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18790" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2022-11-08t195407384jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2022-11-08T195407.384.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="6" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202022-11-08T195407.384.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=KgbUJZ4MGk2HGI2yEz83%2Fx%2Fty3CsmaOWRA8j3pdr3sMIjGBiGXRTgxy5q%2FqMZVtIxo78vFTMIOOfRYKglja402yRS0qa1RCk2nou9UaCIDMrkttn4X8lTNCkeOdhopcFDiszcD%2BD%2F3Ie8o3OAZj7EENpO7pgLJXNRuuIbodujN0kQkpvEL0RDYE5ZwCTcUVxPxa7ZtCd9qbJzDQSL%2BnPw5UNOoRY0rQA2LX7yqnaZHXwDxaHhZxarS5ftaGpTRWvaHAawTodemLci2jxOkwytDmgG3PTAGxBfs09n%2BILh2l3SKcCF7GHjMcEdVhW%2FTiJjlbxCZ2zHpkWCXxEl0p%2FuA%3D%3D" alt="Large crowd at a festival" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">1. “I wish I'd had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me”</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">This was the number one regret of all. When someone realizes their life is almost done and looks back at it, they see how many dreams they couldn’t accomplish, only fulfilling half of their aspirations. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Try to live at least some of your dreams before it’s too late, and take advantage of the time you have right now. </b></p>
<p> </p>
<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18787" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2022-11-08t194742889jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2022-11-08T194742.889.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="3" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202022-11-08T194742.889.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=Bop5vjOrRRevl7VvrJJgCWsfgjgAr2Y3l9LDKn95ea90HKPA2YWFTPRsxx%2F%2B07QsPS07BaDR7u7oNbcXs%2FoK%2FnMXQYR0XvVcs7uvsb7qIBUP2Xxma4JI1JM7bwa8fMhXRli0XJBGBwuyjXEfxd41ct1UBnA3qR5ZbnavuZDBf65nfRrFRIBtbd%2BbbiGbI%2BcEvXmBXThJMltwp5xLaA0yBLUR3uhDh6fCm9shNbLN%2FN3EbIzN9HsGc4uMb2WIZ1%2FHfR7fKprpvBmEoya0y2NgaDHWtTHyHpqNbbs3VEcUdysYVRJv56QHrHgVc%2BXFP%2BySNG1nTg3RwbwjWQ9zwGn6Hw%3D%3D" alt="Man working at his desk" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">2. “I wish I hadn't worked so hard”</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">In the study, every male patient missed their partner's company and their children's innocence. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Women shared this regret as well, but due to the study being of an older generation, most men Bonnie Ware cared for bitterly regretted spending so much of their life working. </b></p>
<p> </p>
<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18788" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2022-11-08t193819310jpeg-0">resized-image-Promo - 2022-11-08T193819.310.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="4" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202022-11-08T193819.310_0.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=WqPkbwSiQZx1kTctXU0NMzck%2B71M3qOKbrmjOibYDddtWeRJ81oD0JNjYM4Hk1yrSlZDfbCjfMtMS7FptcVs9SN4I1sBRitnQTBLJtd0nvpOS5xRQ2RfBYAJ3gs1ZqI703S2Dtcwx%2FpPbbdOW0Z9I4nx4wsywqHYTPKFw6Msp5gyjJ9vD9n1vyvmYIJ%2BB%2Bl7Dpxe3lVcm6O15LOchM3Fy0wpsxLjFNcBXDimf9%2FYBnSTnYTvmjBzFOyMOELnpE6ECMsrN2WdrLtpi4%2BGYdnBig9uqIgAUSjYvE98fg2SQgdN%2Fglc9YVKgepl1tQCW%2FXA5%2Fo%2BLJ4faTQ0uQuBDl%2FRJA%3D%3D" alt="Couple on the beach" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">3. “I wish I had the courage to express my feelings”</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">To maintain harmony with other individuals, many people hide their emotions. As a result, they compromised and never lived to their full potential. </b></p>
<p><b>According to world-renowned physicist <a href="https://www.scotthyoung.com/blog/2018/08/27/richard-feynman-on-expectations/" title="regrets of the dying">Richard Feynman</a>, “You have no responsibility to live up to what other people think you ought to accomplish. I have no responsibility to be like they expect me to be. It’s their mistake, not my failing.”</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18791" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2022-11-08t195433366jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2022-11-08T195433.366.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="7" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202022-11-08T195433.366.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=PiSLkhD1sr3M67757kRy9TNY%2FqqJCLle1pWwT%2FlqAH1379Mdg283qwT9%2BlTS1U0fir%2FxWuEY5cU%2FXKgdO23CoPgT4S7YgzIrl7smD7VGDOn%2BhvBbz1eqbrGewd%2BTFpsAYPocUhkacqaTGc10LWlToiyH8GVy66fLFFHI%2BcbiR7wNKRRUVLbeuO3zXB5Nmyi%2Fup2BQQMXw9xoCADItZRrzLBtEPqWx2SddUBDynHpLmKIlDNnMhiF1YJBkxyP6tgQCcAYNUmcwYwnzOxPjdd139oJcTp8Th1gtlXc2ZVYD5KUDgeq5FZAm02WUzIzH7j0i1LO%2BVXp%2FNm4G3m8zB0h1g%3D%3D" alt="Group of people sitting on a grass field" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">4. “I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends”</b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">It was not always easy to locate old acquaintances, and frequently patients would only fully appreciate the advantages of those friends once their final weeks. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Over the years, many people have let cherished friendships pass them by because they had grown so engrossed in their own lives. Many people regret not investing the necessary time and effort in their connections. </b></p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18789" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2022-11-08t194052995jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2022-11-08T194052.995.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="5" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202022-11-08T194052.995.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=DdBGTV70L5lUzUiQRmdUKWSwbvi%2BwjfOg%2ByYANgOqeKIhrGIiXjcQaH5obMYt5wj%2BeFmHqKGj35S94200RVJdRhgTawxX0fU54YLFe5FDG9%2BwS2z7nVTSSfCJu57JmLtx8rWfKiHFgetDjrYWkO0Cv%2FYxvUauNFkOQQjFZ0%2B3bVY%2BbxGqlr7Mghhrds%2FLYymd5rde5zGOtwc%2BNfbascPoDfQP8b2JNlo5nhDXvc04XRCcnBmSNI1eWCh16CZbPmNvRef0ZgAPEj0cFNBBiivF%2BF40C7BMBvzDx7z2Kr9%2Ffe7wjzFHzUpnsacSXckBcsRUOwI4245StUbojAYMnvLgg%3D%3D" alt="Girl hanging out the window" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">5. “I wish that I had let myself be happier” </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Many people did not understand that choosing happiness until it was too late. They had continued to act in the same patterns and routines. Their physical and emotional lives were both affected by the seeming "comfort" of familiarity. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">They pretended to be content with others and themselves out of fear of change. They secretly want to laugh freely and experience absurdity once in a while. While you die, what other people think of you is far from your mind. </b></p>
<p> </p>
<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18792" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-2022-11-08t195834047jpeg">resized-image-Promo - 2022-11-08T195834.047.jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="8" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20-%202022-11-08T195834.047.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=haJspdYGDChQRd9tPFD0tEhRo4OBSsmT8xS4NH1VI9XwWXpmTk3Fy0RF%2BAWvZ98vCHBby4MWIo1KWWTFUctlmRVUkjpZFo3s9qY%2FlL4hbi8F8M0OF2BqeDRjXMZkrmNdv0hz7fCap9wobMlQzQ5V1qGdV%2FndQ1ZHuIkfzKQnszaGDWL6%2BrItNx%2ByPK87JQGmZRP%2Fgel3fH57JeN2Cy5XqjpD3v%2BWJHhdzjiHEhxSIq8JKFwURdQo%2B1yOW5QaQhF5fWRGI161Qj2pCpeWMUFdnofRFi35QuIg9VwougVZjajDJOKnNUDS2cl7YE2JBlwZSRVwg1F%2BIun6PKuxEZipBQ%3D%3D" alt="Relationship goals on terrace" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Live Life to the Fullest with My Stories Matter </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">If you’re yourself, then:</b></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">You lead an authentic life.</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">You put much value on your time and work at a job that matches your lifestyle. </b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">You acknowledge and communicate your emotions.</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">You maintain contact with friends.</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">You allow yourself to smile.</b></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">By being yourself, you live without regrets. Ask yourself, “What would I regret the most if I died tomorrow?” and listen to that. </b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="regrets of the dying">My Stories Matter</a> is custom-built for you to live your life regret-free, and it does this in many ways, including: </b></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Preserving and reliving your memories</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Connecting with a loved one </b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Building your family history  </b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">Journaling your life via memoir, autobiography, etc </b></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">And much more! </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9">By utilizing the power of science and psychology, My Stories Matter enables you to access forgotten memories, re-live your most exciting experiences, and reflect better in the future. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-6f5c8170-7fff-dc71-f4ba-f1f147757fc9"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="regrets of the dying">Sign up today</a> for free and start living. </b></p>


The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying (and How to Avoid Them)

<p></p><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18667" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-85jpeg">resized-image-Promo (85).jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="1" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20%2885%29.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=n5rBPmBp3buE5opRvzztSJK5HBfQoGUwzy%2FMhcSFxcrfy5YBkqEo0c%2Fb9ySKuys9CWxQEPFL52df%2F%2FmFJySFYYdReSRKpwUMI6cUFS0PBvqHrT%2FKmju8ljzODVkw6enBWAK3IZX4gJmMiyLD%2FntH6gO6yg8SwMfHeS3YCKNwNfETpAchqt1zYLRbq0lrkbikmq3%2BYL%2FDYiKvDzqqDkjLrRTNlQVbC29P9sNNq%2FQ0cqzM7Em4MUgcAcGASVUZlR%2BbICCOAXFr4IGd1oCqQP%2FG%2BeyKBZeEjAi28Fh%2FwV9b1Yvj9n9y%2Bs4v9oDhM48ntgTQHYRXoF451ai1tunCGm05kg%3D%3D" alt="Person writing in red notebook" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Why is keeping a journal so beneficial?</b></p>

<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journaling improves a person's general quality of life and mental and physical health. Not only that, you’ll eternally have a record of your life that you can always look back on and never feel judged for expressing yourself. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">If you’re new to journaling, you’ve come to the right place.</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">In this post, we'll look at five science-backed advantages of journaling. Let’s dive in!</b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18668" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-86jpeg">resized-image-Promo (86).jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="2" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20%2886%29.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=mWvGRJpErFCdgWVcCjenqIxi9xaKqhW1CHhbeSvBSjwgKl9NBakSvku4QskbxK3irVvV4%2Fkwai1bf2THmCS7VIG%2F1%2BOFI59T5pj1OHOnP2%2Fmx91tF93Sr6M%2BhGhr6S5TguQlCF2%2Fl0xR4uyrC54eoDRTW8fqJrkstfWu1yHLwI2N8xDQGWfwJ%2FUHjo4l9L6Z0HjDCQug5FmJ16mpMmtzOZh2j15A713wdtJ8wG3FPAlFPEb0bAjdpg4zknb2yArOiQz11TyLamjTqJ7IBqEXVW5%2Bq42Ipqp7bHjWyp0jvj7fQYUUlKtOW6kixJ1mQQN8r1%2BqMt29It5%2FRwQJdISqzA%3D%3D" alt="Man in blue and brown plaid shirt holding his head" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journaling Eases Anxiety </b></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Many people struggle with anxiety. If you’re one of them, take up journaling! Keeping a journal is a good stress management strategy. After all, emotion-focused writing is connected <a href="https://mental.jmir.org/2018/4/e11290/" title="journaling ">with lower mental discomfort and greater well-being</a>.  </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">In a study with 70 people with high anxiety levels, writing online for 12 weeks <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6305886/" title="journaling ">dramatically lessened</a> their mental anguish. In addition, patients, families, and medical staff from a children’s hospital reported feeling<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6907914/" title="journaling "> less stressed</a> after performing the following journaling exercise:</b></p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Writing three things they are grateful for</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Writing the story of their life in six words</b></p>
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Writing three wishes they had</b></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Go ahead - try that exercise for yourself!</b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18669" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-87jpeg">resized-image-Promo (87).jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="3" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20%2887%29.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=l2DuYVKVvm0c4wHKWruuiqWSGSn4H3VQTUAFoAIwFtCgOASCDF5wLoaPGCT%2BRtvJ9rW%2BaJlTk14Mm%2BAmqmsFbLXBVLF095PCHDADKa0GHiV6Pi9XnxaJA4qEEJYGzVj3Hdas50RZeZ8rdVW%2BRnFj89UVzkufLWgVBxuFDMmSutLEvPXePo0pkApf%2BJzT4fY%2B9chvM5F63EXIZaRJ4Q5TTJtIV2qMcnQaDbIaeppxYviU%2F3SEewkWMPHxPaAZ4XvrSFL1i8RmzGAkcHu6rZSRLJ71wApMEG3xtxi%2F4VRjc6DX0KSlef5IdpbEj9cu2UnzTxb5ZoTzeUjkzMy77NU2%2BQ%3D%3D" alt="couple at a gravestone" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journaling Helps with Past Trauma </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">When a loved one has passed away, keeping a <a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/blog/post/8-creative-ways-to-keep-the-memory-of-a-loved-one-alive/" title="journaling ">journal may help you grieve healthily</a>. You have the privacy to work through your feelings and maintain some form of communication with your loved one. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journaling can aid in reducing the psychological anguish we experience in response to trauma. For example, people who journaled for 15 minutes each day reported <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0197455605000699?via%3Dihub" title="journaling ">feeling less depressed, anxious, or hostile</a>. </b></p>
<p><b>Even those who struggle with severe illnesses benefit from journaling! Those with post-traumatic stress disorder engaging in expressive writing exercises experienced their moods </b><b id="docs-internal-guid-65c9fffe-7fff-d740-0ab0-cfac7d8e6d05"><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18230238/" title="journaling ">significantly improving and their stress hormone reactions to painful memories decreasing.</a> </b> </p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18670" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-88jpeg">resized-image-Promo (88).jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="4" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20%2888%29.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=UOJ1rh9mDdSC4VVx0MfZiBkawSKOJNfuvRKeyO0duT9QjZiWn6%2BE%2F4SBdNLVGANWcXL6rwrEhDLSEKWZLYs8Rbv2phx7V%2BIg3vMTS5v63CYva9mBxyIgKAXpMgChsS7%2BGxVgRPz5GrRG0DrPr7AxxSlmEy2qcy9BNeUikRtbCslxJlfMN%2FQ4x8XryNQNGj4JgGNAnjszVuE7ngfMpYvAzsMvZVmTpPM35x8MHRovcrvnENo7sMzcrqQV99xKCa1Sthv0I0ssgr0yS0r6O2bqRgSKdRav%2B6OKq9fJMSpnduMkZuYcMm7ikc8hTNlnJaI9XHz1fgbMGoCkqoqxdwGzdg%3D%3D" alt="Woman sitting on a wooden dock" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journaling Decreases Depression </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Depression is nothing to be ashamed of; globally, <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression" title="journaling ">5% of adults suffer from depression</a>. However, the natural remedy of journaling helps ease depression. Journaling can be as helpful as cognitive-behavioral therapy in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17007812/" title="journaling ">lowering the risk of depression</a> in young people. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Did you know that when people with severe depressive illnesses wrote for 20 minutes each day for three days about their most intense thoughts and feelings related to an emotional experience, their depression ratings <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23790815/" title="journaling ">significantly decreased</a>?</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">In addition, students who journaled about their most intense emotions the month before a major exam experienced <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9364758/" title="journaling ">fewer depressive symptoms</a> since they didn't focus as much on intrusive thoughts. </b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18671" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-89jpeg">resized-image-Promo (89).jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="5" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20%2889%29.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=Vq9lT75ofQaeBLWJfLUlF636ejZmUA5ixOxKkaP%2BX4QtYsdBgjgow1cEMLqPJsXCdhF1s%2Bbt4tu2K9%2FnQ8eHWb48FKEFZuwe939tn5Op5Idz0MY7XzNQ7vCc8015otkqp%2B78RpKIQy4AOh2NA1G7AGGIbJ32WUvz6djPad3h1WlvMVYw8wQPSxM6oeWJ4VWgMwV%2BjINkhngerKguTwr7a2Tkp9j%2FXdp2E6D69wr%2B7je8GtbMUXh%2FcDsVoq3zIk%2BPB%2BuHSmUNK8SYSrKybw0GJyh2%2FG4lLouzeM9irfLpctjnK7zYcFdHC7%2BJ3VzvYSSa0rzzoB1FcJI4DP9jvXpqsg%3D%3D" alt="Silver-colored Heart Lock Bridge" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journaling Increases Gratitude </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Listing your blessings has become more popular over the past several years. But there’s truth to it! Journaling <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10447-017-9289-8" title="journaling ">encourages thankfulness</a> - of all things! </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">In one study, journaling weekly was <a href="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/pdfs/GratitudePDFs/6Emmons-BlessingsBurdens.pdf" title="journaling ">linked to more pronounced increases in general optimism</a>. </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Try a Gratitude Journal! Every night, set aside five minutes to jot down the three things you are most thankful for. They don't need anything big or significant; they can be as simple as the rain on your windowsill or your favorite cup of coffee. </b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18672" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-90jpeg">resized-image-Promo (90).jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="6" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20%2890%29.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=cOpJ91A%2BHKBvuGhBYD1EP05J%2BHOnRGtQo%2BJunA11TNe%2BjooZ8Q3PveboMhEyKgMjYOxr1uTRjnrrkOmaqQCxoxHSthzrNQ%2Fr0F7pT7DJGTdsknbUdRNdblcMVKkitNoZo1yKMjn4WQ45T77m3nQhhAkj76%2B%2BZgiJoWUfbeCfxy0T3lj90sQw7I5F167LarGuAyWPDGQbR4Cqexb4txzPXoUqyYrhttBpAvmaEJZmARi3X7rbyRxAti2t9LXqwUcBPRCD%2FQbhFsyo5b5lPo9npup6TVuOtMDHrXh%2BZpAF7oz611JqstGgXF8rV9avZdgexKrYk5qi9aVt%2BguYt2U3DQ%3D%3D" alt="Old photos in a wooden box" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journaling Sharpens Your Memory </b></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Is there a particular event you don’t want to forget? Such as hiking through the Himalayas, that Sunday picnic, or a family reunion? Your first kiss? </b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/blog/post/sharing-memories--5-unique-ways-you-haven't-thought-of/" title="journaling ">Keeping a journal helps enhance your working memory. </a></b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">In one study, first-year college students who wrote down their thoughts and feelings had <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2001-18060-012" title="journaling ">less intrusive and avoidant thoughts during the day</a>, which allowed more space for remembering. Similarly, college-bound teenagers who wrote in-depth about their feelings and ideas regarding college showed <a href="https://www.apa.org/monitor/sep01/keepdiary" title="journaling ">improved short-term memory and academic performance</a>. </b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">When you journal, those precious memories never have to fade; you can <a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/blog/post/how-to-relive-a-memory/" title="journaling ">relive them over and over</a>. </b></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><div class="media media-element-container media-default media-wysiwyg-align-center"><div id="file-18673" class="file file-image file-image-jpeg">

        <h2 class="element-invisible"><a href="/file/resized-image-promo-91jpeg">resized-image-Promo (91).jpeg</a></h2>
    
  
  <div class="content">
    <img class="media-element file-default" data-delta="7" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://cueback-com.storage.googleapis.com/cueback/blog_editor_media/resized-image-Promo%20%2891%29.jpeg?GoogleAccessId=298180869348-compute@developer.gserviceaccount.com&amp;Expires=1733331704&amp;Signature=ni2BgKHq3FwytB5%2FC3SmxFiZiM4DrTdVlgdu2Qq1PnqXgkICvv2d2rjj89tpFb1SQty%2F3GkVRcN0jkvHaZjfRXpeZgqMn2eXqsHzjw7l7jeUnAkt2Wvca8raifYCzFyxLm1jML5Sty7oqQAx6WUGR9m%2B18Nfe6Iw63DuGnUumj%2FjDll2VoTv6rhefcNk6Y490yOP7qW1%2FGNkE4Jn38geStprkCwk4V%2Bl1G607JpaJy%2B0Ps5C9NCHgP6hN730tGOFn8GTbWXm%2BbW6hiKQWrLPk9TC5t79%2FHBaEsYaJM6nm8leqZp1m%2BfdS2M6Iv1f9SWb68uP92NPN51V%2FyZyjc8FIg%3D%3D" alt="person writing on a notebook" />  </div>

  
</div>
</div></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Journal on My Stories Matter </b></h2>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Start the journal you've always wanted! </b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">You can create a virtual backup of your essential work so that you may view, modify, and download it whenever you choose and group your journal entries into Collections.</b></p>
<p><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e">Unlike other social media apps, your private journal entries are only visible to you. However, you can also choose to share specific entries with friends.</b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><b id="docs-internal-guid-36e8c09b-7fff-ddd2-c02e-12e724e3431e"><a href="https://www.mystoriesmatter.com/" title="journaling ">Sign up for free</a> and begin journaling today! </b></p>


Self-improvement

Unlocking Happiness: How Positive Psychology Can Change Your Life

10 Questions to Ask Yourself for a Happy Life

7 Must-Have Tips on Journaling

The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying (and How to Avoid Them)

The Many Cognitive Benefits of Journaling