Katelyn Arterburn


Journaling has been a quiet companion through so many seasons of my life—helping me process, reflect, and make sense of the chaos. But here’s the thing: it’s never looked the same.

Some days, it’s a few thoughts typed into my Notes app while I wait in the carpool line.

Other times, I send myself a quick reflection through [Dabble Me](https://dabble.me/?ref=katelyn), a platform my husband created that drops a daily email in my inbox, inviting me to pause and check in.

And sometimes, it’s scribbles in a journal that’s been sitting on my nightstand for weeks, waiting for me to pick it back up.

There’s no “right” way to journal. What matters is creating space to reflect—because when I do, I always find clarity waiting on the other side.

#### Why I Love Using Dabble Me (Even if I’m a Little Biased)

I wouldn’t use a journaling platform that didn’t prioritize privacy—especially one built by my husband! But that’s one of the things I love most about [Dabble Me](https://dabble.me/?ref=katelyn). My thoughts, reflections, and messy moments stay mine.

**✅ It Respects My Privacy.**

I get it—you might be thinking, “Of course, she’s going to say that.” But honestly, privacy was non-negotiable when Dabble Me was created. I wouldn’t use a platform where I felt like my innermost thoughts weren’t protected. Every entry I write stays private, tucked away where only I can access it.

**✅ It’s Effortless.**

No complicated app or commitment. Just a simple email that lands in my inbox each day, inviting me to reflect. I can reply in seconds or skip a day if I need to—no guilt, no pressure.

**✅ It Brings Reflection Full Circle.**

One of my favorite features is the “On This Day” email. It resurfaces past entries, giving me a glimpse into where I was a year (or five) ago. It’s like a quiet reminder from my past self, offering perspective I didn’t know I needed.

#### Journaling, AI, and Deeper Reflection

Lately, I’ve been exploring how to go even deeper with my reflections by exporting my Dabble Me entries and running them through AI tools like ChatGPT. It’s wild how much insight emerges when I take a step back and look at patterns over time—recurring themes, emotional triggers, and even the shifts in how I talk to myself.

But what I love is that Dabble Me keeps me in control. I decide when and how to engage with AI, and my data stays private. This way, I get the best of both worlds—personal reflection meets deeper analysis.

### Why Reflection (in Any Form) Changes Everything

Whether you’re journaling with Dabble Me, using a Notes app, or scribbling in a journal by hand, the real power lies in the act of pausing and noticing.

#### Here’s what happens when you make space for reflection:

* 🎯 Clarity Around Goals: Writing things down makes them real. You gain focus and can track progress over time.
* 🌱 Insight into Growth: Revisiting old entries reminds you how far you’ve come—even when it feels like nothing’s changing.
* 💡 Deeper Self-Trust: Reflecting on challenges and wins builds confidence in your ability to navigate whatever comes next.

#### There’s No Perfect System—Just Start Where You Are

Journaling doesn’t have to be a perfectly curated habit. It’s about giving yourself space to process and reflect. Some seasons, it might look like responding to a Dabble Me email every evening. Other times, it might be a few scattered notes in your phone or random journal entries once a month.

#### What matters is that you’re showing up—for yourself

So whether it’s a quick note, a voice memo, or an entry in your favorite journal, take a few moments to connect with the part of you that’s always paying attention. Your future self will thank you.

##### Want to Try Dabble Me?

If you’re curious, check out [Dabble Me](https://dabble.me/?ref=katelyn)—it’s an easy way to add reflection into your routine without adding more to your plate.

Or just pick up that half-filled notebook and start where you left off. Either way, you’ll be giving yourself the gift of presence.

Because reflection isn’t about doing it perfectly—it’s about doing it at all.


Discover how journaling—whether through apps, notebooks, or quick notes—can bring clarity, growth, and deeper self-trust to your life. Learn why Dabble Me offers a private, effortless way to reflect, track your journey, and even explore insights using AI. Because reflection isn’t about perfection; it’s simply about making space to connect with yourself.

Dear Future Me: Why I Keep Coming Back to Journaling


The term "self-care" has become a popular buzzword. Aromatherapy baths, face masks, and yoga classes are all great ways to relax and replenish. But what if you find that these conventional methods of self-care just aren't cutting it for you? It's crucial to understand that self-care is more than a quick fix, and there are deeper forms of care you can explore.

### Self-Compassion: The Core of Deep Care

Self-compassion is about being kind to yourself in moments of distress or perceived inadequacy. It's about acknowledging your struggles without judgment, allowing you to comfort and soothe yourself. Incorporating self-compassion into your life can be as simple as taking a moment to acknowledge that you're having a hard time and offer yourself some kind words of support.

### Setting Boundaries: A Form of Self-Protection

Boundaries are essential to maintaining balance and energy in our lives. They protect us from being overwhelmed by the demands of others. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but setting boundaries is a powerful form of deep self-care. Remember, it's okay to say no when you're feeling overextended.

### Seek Professional Help: Therapy as Self-Care

Therapy is a profound form of self-care. It's a space to explore your thoughts and feelings, understand yourself better, and learn new coping strategies. Online therapy options make it even more accessible for those with tight schedules or transportation issues.

### Emotional Literacy: Understand Your Feelings

Being able to identify and express your emotions is an essential aspect of deep self-care. Emotional literacy allows you to understand what you're feeling, why you're feeling it, and how you can best respond to those emotions.

### Cultivate Supportive Relationships

Nurturing connections with others who support and understand you is an essential aspect of deep care. You can find these connections through support groups, online communities, friends, or family.

### Prioritize Rest

Rest is more than just getting enough sleep. It's about allowing yourself to take breaks, slow down, and do less. Rest is a critical component of self-care and overall well-being.

Remember, you are worthy and deserving of deep care. Sometimes, the self-care script may not apply, but that doesn't mean you're stuck. There are always other options, other avenues for self-support, and I'm here to help guide you through them.

✨You are worthy, deserving of love, and capable of growth. 🌱💗 Save and share this post with a fellow mom who might need this reminder. Follow [@therapy.with.katelyn](https://www.instagram.com/therapy.with.katelyn) for more insights and support. 💗

If you're seeking guidance through the challenges of motherhood and self-care, [connect with me](/contact) today.


It's crucial to understand that self-care is more than a quick fix, and there are deeper forms of care you can explore.

Showing posts from Mental Health category

Dear Future Me: Why I Keep Coming Back to Journaling

When Self-Care Doesn't Feel Enough: Embracing Deeper Forms of Care