Suleika Jaouad, a Brooklyn-based writer and creative thinker, shares her profound journey with journaling. Though initially dismissive of the term "creative practice," she acknowledges how journaling has been instrumental in her life. Jaouad's approach to journaling is far from traditional diary-keeping; instead, it resembles an open-ended exploration of thoughts and ideas. Her dedication deepened when leukemia recurred in late 2021, adding new dimensions to her writing ritual.

A Journey Through Words and Challenges

In the vibrant and artistic environment of Brooklyn, Suleika Jaouad, 36 years old, continues her lifelong habit of daily writing. Unlike conventional diaries, which often focus on linear narratives of daily events, Jaouad’s journals are more like sketchbooks for language, brimming with tangential musings and nascent ideas. These notebooks, scattered across her home office and storage spaces, represent years of unfiltered expression.

Jaouad's commitment to journaling gained renewed importance after her leukemia relapse. Having previously documented her initial battle with the disease in various formats—her New York Times column Life, Interrupted, her memoir Between Two Kingdoms, and her Substack community The Isolation Journals—she found herself once again turning to writing as both therapy and storytelling. This time, alongside her husband Jon Batiste, they were working on a documentary titled "American Symphony." Originally intended to showcase his musical composition, the project evolved to include her cancer treatment journey, intertwining personal struggles with artistic creation.

From a young age, Jaouad viewed journaling not as a melodramatic act but as essential as stretching for a runner or practicing scales for a musician. Her vast collection of filled notebooks stands testament to this belief, each page capturing moments of introspection and resilience.

Through her experiences, Jaouad illustrates how journaling can transform into a lifeline during challenging times. It serves not only as a private outlet for emotions but also as a public narrative capable of inspiring others facing similar adversities.

As someone who has witnessed the transformative power of journaling firsthand, I am struck by how such a simple practice can foster healing and self-discovery. Jaouad's story reminds us that amidst life's uncertainties, there is immense value in documenting our journeys, whether for personal growth or connecting with others through shared stories. Her example encourages all of us to embrace journaling—not as a chore, but as a meaningful practice enriching our lives.