When we were younger we’d keep a diary and confess all our secrets to it, and then hide it under the mattress. As we grew older, we learned to compartmentalise those thoughts deep within ourselves instead. Keeping a diary in the adult world is called “journaling”. Journaling is a powerful act of self-discovery, offering a safe space to explore your emotions and reconnect with your true self. To put it simply, journaling is a tool to keep in touch with the parts of us that we once compartmentalised.
A Conversation with Salma
We spoke to 11:11 Journals’ founder, Salma Mabrouk, on the importance of journaling for emotional wellness. “For me, journaling was an essential part of my healing journey. It completely changed my life. I wanted to spread mindful journaling in Egypt. I wanted to share just how powerful it can be.”
Familiar Hell is Better Than Unfamiliar Heaven
Gratitude is one of the most important emotions to cultivate, spiritually it is proven to raise vibrations and naturally put you in a better state of mind. 11:11 Journals has a specific section dedicated to gratuity, letting go, and setting goals. “what you focus on expands, this is why adapting a grateful mindset is so important.”
Shadow Work
Shadow work is uncovering the hidden parts of your psyche to understand yourself more, heal from old wounds, and improve relationships. In other words, it’s the work you do on the darker side of yourself that you don’t want or cannot see. Salma made sure shadow work had its own journal to help people reveal the dark side of themselves. “We so often get triggered by something and not realise the root of it, it could even be something that took place years ago.” Salma adds.
“Shadow work requires a lot of courage and bravery to be able to face the hidden parts of your psyche.”
Where to Begin with Journaling
Journaling can be a transformative practice, but where you start often depends on your emotional state. Salma explains that if you’re feeling stuck in life and craving change, the Shadow Work Journal might be the perfect choice. “It helps you confront and process emotions on a deeper level,” she shares. On the other hand, if you’re in a dark place and need something uplifting, the Gratitude Journal is designed to shift your focus toward positivity and light.
Her journals have already had a profound impact on many lives. One user shared how the Gratitude Journal helped them rediscover their love for painting. A hobby they hadn’t touched in over a decade. Another story comes from two friends who used the Shadow Work Journal together and, in doing so, uncovered new depths in their relationship.
Salma likens journaling to any other form of art, emphasising that there’s no need for perfection or expectations. “Just let your thoughts flow freely—it’s about self-expression and discovering yourself in the process,” she says.
“As an artist, I believe women want the freedom to express themselves authentically. Feminine energy is the essence of creation, and we crave the space to create without limits, free from expectations, and with a sense of safety.”
Journaling is a bridge to your inner world, helping you uncover truths, heal wounds, and celebrate life’s joys. With every word, it empowers you to grow, transform, and create a deeper connection with yourself.