10 Journal Prompts To Get You Started

It’s no secret that I love journaling, as I have about five by my bedside at this current moment.

One is a daily journal where I document my day, another is my creative dump journal (words, ideas, projects), and the last is my emotional dump journal where I process and write out the heavy feelings.

Writing has been an outlet for me during my dark days when my thoughts begin to circle, and moreover— a way to document my life and hone in my creativity. Writing and capturing everyday life, shows that significance is held in the everyday moments, not just the big milestones. Yes, the milestone moments are impactful—but the days that led up to those moments are significant as well, if not more.

So if you’re wanting to try mindful journaling or reflective thoughts, this blog post is here to help you dive into journaling!

 

Here are some prompts I have found beneficial:

  1. “I have been…” Write about the roles you have had in your life. Sister, brother, occupation, relationships, etc. Good for when you feel like you have forgotten all of your accomplishments in life.

  2. What can you do today that you didn’t think you could do a year ago?

  3. What role does social media play in your life? How does your average daily use make you feel? What purpose does it serve?

  4. Write a letter to your past self. Apologies, gratitudes, and your growth.

  5. Write a letter to someone who hurt you. Don’t hold back. Write what you need.

  6. What is your favorite quality about yourself that you hope people notice? (You are not selfish writing this, this is a strength that you have.)

  7. Who is someone you look up to, and what qualities do they possess that you want to be better at?

  8. Write a letter to someone who you highly look up to but they don’t know it. If you feel inclined, you can even mail it to them afterward.

  9. Using descriptive writing, write out one of your favorite days/memories. Don’t forget to elaborate on your surroundings: the feel of the atmosphere, smells, tastes, sights, and colors. Challenge yourself and be descriptive as possible, reliving your favorite moments.

  10. Write about the qualities you appreciate in other people. This will help you identify the strengths you want to work on and attempt to embody those more in your everyday life.

I hope these offer you insight into what you value, admire, and treasure most. Journaling has helped me cultivate confidence, mitigate anxiety, and process stress on overwhelming days. Yet most importantly—allowing me to turn to gratitude and personal growth.

Wishing you peaceful journaling and keep making yourself and the world a better place.

You are doing your best—and you are doing great.

Shelby Swygert