Reflecting on my own experience with journaling, the "ins and outs" spread has become a valuable way to track both positive and negative influences in my life. For 2026, I took extra care to consider what habits or feelings I wanted to bring in and which ones I hoped to leave behind. For instance, listing "outs" such as doomscralling, late bedtimes, and wearing myself thin helped me acknowledge behaviors holding me back. In contrast, the "ins" included more mindful states like being less worried and creating space for self-care. This process felt unrestrained and honest, unlike previous cursory attempts. I found that breaking down my day-to-day habits into these two categories gave clarity on what to focus on improving. It also motivated me to set concrete goals for adopting healthier routines. If you're considering creating an "ins and outs" journal spread, try to be specific with your entries. Use it as a tool to gently surface any struggles like feeling worried or stressed so you can address them consciously. Pair it with hashtags like #journaling or #journalwithme to connect with others on similar journeys. Journaling this way isn't just about recording but about intentionally shaping your mindset and habits for a better year ahead.