I’m PJ (short for Paul John), and I created Pen & Journal after a long and challenging journey through mental health struggles during the pandemic. In a time when the world felt like it had stopped, I found myself searching for something more than just ways to pass the time — I needed a real way to take care of my mind and heart.
That’s when I stumbled into journaling.
At first, it felt awkward. I thought I had to do it a certain way — polished, organized, perfect. But eventually, I found my own method: free-flow journaling. No rules. No expectations. Just me, a notebook, and my unfiltered thoughts. And that simple act changed my life.
Through consistent journaling, I slowly healed from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and rediscovered parts of myself I thought I’d lost. Journaling became my safe space — my way of breathing, processing, and moving forward.
Pen & Journal isn’t just a blog — it’s a movement.
It’s about encouraging people to find clarity, healing, and growth through the simple but powerful habit of journaling. Whether you use pen and paper, digital notes, or voice recordings, the act of expressing your thoughts matters.
And yes, Pen & Journal also carries a little personal touch:
PJ stands for Pen & Journal, Pencil & Journal, Paul John, and even Paul & Jelyn — a reminder that something simple can hold so many layers of meaning.