From Reader to Reflector: Why Journaling While Reading Changed Everything
Let’s be honest — how many books have you read that felt deep in the moment, but weeks later you can’t remember what they were about? You might recall a nice quote or two, but the full gist? Gone.
Now, imagine reading a book and remembering exactly how it made you feel, what it taught you, and how it shifted something inside of you. That’s what journaling while reading does — it turns your reading experience from “just vibes” to “actual transformation.”
I know journaling can sound like a lot. You’re probably thinking, “Me that I’m just trying to finish this book in peace, you want me to now be writing again?” But stick with me — because this thing works, and it’s not as complicated as it sounds.
So, What’s This Journaling While Reading About?
It’s simple: as you read, you jot down your thoughts. That’s it.
Not a full-blown essay o — just a line or two:
– What stood out to you?
– What’s challenging you?
– What reminded you of your life or past?
– What do you want to act on or pray about?
Think of it as gist between you and your book. Sometimes, even God joins the conversation!
Why It Works And Why You’ll Thank Yourself Later.
1. It helps you remember what you read.
Our minds are full. Between work, school, content, and adulting, it’s easy to forget details. Journaling locks in your understanding and makes the message personal.
2. It slows you down.
Reading fast is nice, but deep reading? That’s the real gold. When you pause to reflect, you catch meaning beyond the surface.
3. It reveals YOU to YOU.
Sometimes what hits us in a book is revealing something deep — fears, dreams, pain, desire. Journaling gives space to unpack all that.
4. It helps you connect spiritually.
If you’re reading faith-based books, journaling helps you track growth. You’ll start seeing patterns — what God is saying, how you’re growing, where you’re healing.
You Don’t Have to Be a Writer
This is not WAEC. Nobody is grading you. Journaling while reading is personal, and there’s no one right way.
Here are easy ways to start:
Use Prompts Like:
• “This part made me feel…”
• “I disagree with this because…”
• “This reminded me of when…”
• “God, what are You trying to show me here?”
Use What You Have:
• Your phone’s Notes app
• A ₦500 notebook
• Voice notes (yes, it still counts!)
Use the 3-Line Method:
Quote → Reaction → Application.
Example:
“You are not your past.” →
“This hit me. I still define myself by past failures.” →
“I need to start affirming who I am now.”
Boom. That’s journaling.
Real Talk — It Changed Me
I used to rush through books just to tick them off my list. But now? I go slow. I pause. I reflect. And it has made all the difference.
Books that used to be 2/10 for me became 10/10 just because I took time to engage with them. Even novels o — you’d be shocked how much you can learn about yourself from a good story.
Don’t Just Read, Reflect
The next time you pick up a book, I challenge you — don’t just read. Reflect.
Write as you go. Feel deeply. Think widely. Let the words transform you.
Whether it’s a faith-based book, Nigerian fiction, finance, or even romance — journaling will make it richer.
Your Turn
Have you ever tried journaling while reading? What was it like?
Or do you want to give it a try?
Drop a comment. Share your thoughts. Or better still, tag us when you try it — we want to celebrate your journey from reader to reflector. ✨
Your Book Bestie, Ada✨
