People can use a journal to track personal experiences in a diary-like way. While the journal does not need to be a chronological recording of events, people can write about experiences and reflect upon them in the pages. The act of writing with a pen and not being able to erase what is written provides the writer with a sense of freedom; she can write down her immediate thoughts and feelings. Journal writing about everyday incidents can also inspire creative works. Recording what is seen in the street or in the home can lead to writing ideas for fiction and poetry.
Writers and nonwriters alike can use a journal to store ideas. Writing about artistic or literary ideas in a journal can spur additional idea growth. Writing down a web of ideas in a journal can help a writer or artist sort out his artistic goals. The journal stores many ideas that the writer can turn to later for inspiration.
Journal writing can be a form of self-help. According to "Psychology Today," people who write in a journal for just a few minutes every day enjoy health benefits. Writing about bad memories, painful feelings and hardships can help people confront their feelings and fears. The journal is private and can be turned to at any time.
Journal writers often write preliminary versions of their work in journals when they are not near their computer. The journal is used to collect poetry or short stories that can later be expounded upon and written into a computer document for editing.