The appeal of writing: Why keeping a diary increases our well-being

Result

Eight per cent of Germans write a diary regularly - i.e. at least once a week. As many as three per cent even put their thoughts on paper every day. Since 2020, the attractiveness of this leisure activity has increased by three percentage points (2020: 5%). Diary writing is particularly popular among the under-30s and is therefore practised twice as often. In contrast, only four per cent of all older citizens use a journal. No significant differences were found between the sexes, income or size of location.

Reasons

The reasons why many people write a diary vary from person to person. For some, it is about recording memories, feelings or thoughts. For others, it is more a way of understanding themselves better, reflecting on themselves and establishing a deeper connection with themselves. Processing difficult emotions such as sadness, anger or fear is also a common reason for keeping a journal.
For the younger generation in particular, it is often a deliberate contrast to self-presentation on social media. While social media is often used with the aim of sharing information with others and receiving feedback, diary writing is a completely private and personal activity. The diary is almost a kind of sanctuary for them, where thoughts and feelings are recorded without fear of being judged or criticised by others. It also gives them the chance to put their own values, goals or dreams on paper without being influenced by the expectations and opinions of others.
The effects of the pandemic also had a further influence on the increasing popularity of keeping a diary. Instead of chatting with friends, colleagues or relatives, in times of lockdown and social distancing, it offered a way of sorting out thoughts and emotions and thus creating a sense of control in an uncontrollable situation.

Forecast

Diary writing has been experiencing a renaissance for some years now and this trend could continue in the future. More and more people are recognising the opportunity to reduce their own stress levels by recording their thoughts and experiences. As a kind of counterbalance to the pace of modern life, it is a way for them to pause, take time for themselves and deal with what really matters to them. Keeping a diary will therefore remain a timeless hobby in the future, and its relevance will continue to grow.