Journaling is a great way to work through your feelings, but writing down everything that comes to mind can be overwhelming.
What do you write about when you journal?
Do you sometimes feel like there are no new thoughts in your head?
Prompts can help!
Writing prompts are questions or statements that get the creative juices flowing and help inspire new ideas, and it beats staring at a blank page. And this list of 101+ prompts for journaling is exactly what you need to get started.
There are many different kinds of prompts available for journal writing. From exploring what you feel like when you think about anxiety to the things that make you happy, there are many different kinds of prompts available for journal writing. Let's explore these options together!
What are journaling prompts?
Prompts are questions or statements meant to get your creative juices flowing. Prompts can be used to write journals, poems, short stories, letters to friends, and art therapy- the possibilities are endless! Prompts can help when you're having trouble getting started or want some new ideas to keep your journal fresh.
What is the process of journaling?
There is no set process for journaling. Some people prefer to write linearly, from beginning to end. Others like to flip through their journals and write about whatever topic catches their eye. There is no “wrong” way to journal-its all about what works for you.
How to find your perfect journal prompts?
There are many different kinds of prompts available for journal writing. When choosing what type of prompts to use, think about your current mood or state of mind. Prompts can help express feelings that may be difficult to put into words or record physical sensations in moments where it's hard to capture the present moment in words. Prompts can also be used for reflection and exploring your thoughts and feelings about anxiety.
If you're having trouble finding prompts that inspire you, you can also get creative and make up your own prompts!
When do you journal?
There is no wrong time to journal-it can be done at any time, in any setting. Some people prefer to journal first thing in the morning, others like to do it before bed, and some like to journal on lunch breaks or while waiting for the train. Think about where you're most likely to have some downtime and give yourself permission to write journaling is for you, not anyone else!
Why journal?
There are many reasons why people journal. Some journal to connect with themselves; others journal to find perspective in moments that feel out of control. Done correctly, journaling may be relaxing and clearing for your mind. It can aid in the release of built-up tension and suppressed emotions. It may help you release negative ideas while learning about your anxiety in a safe manner. The truth is, writing your reviews down in a journal can positively impact your stress on a holistic level.
How to start journaling?
If you're ready to start journaling, the best way to start is simply by picking up a journal (you can start with these basis ones here) and writing down the date. The next step is to write a sentence or two about how you're feeling today. From there, you can explore the prompt or write about whatever topic comes to mind. Don't worry about grammar, punctuation, or spelling-just let your thoughts flow!
How to use journal prompts?
There are a few things to keep in mind when using journal prompts. Prompts can be a starting point for your writing, but don't feel obligated to stick to them. If a prompt doesn't resonate with you, skip it and move on to the next one. Prompts can also be used to explore your thoughts and feelings about anxiety.
If you're struggling to get started, prompts can be a great way to jump-start your writing. They can provide a structure for your thoughts and help you explore new topics. Prompts can also be used to reflect on your day or recent events.
101 Prompts for Journaling
– Write a letter to your inner anxiety. How do you feel it affects your life? What would you say to it if you could speak directly to it?
– When did a specific fear last come up for you? What happened during that moment, and how did you react?
– Think about your day. What were some of the high and low points? What emotions did you feel throughout the day?
– In moments of anxiety, what are some things that you tend to tell yourself? Are they helpful or harmful?
– Write about a time when you felt really good-what was happening in your life at that moment?
– What are some things that make you happy? Write about a time when you were pleased and what you were doing.
– What are your thoughts on anxiety? How do you feel about it, both mentally and emotionally?
– When have you felt most supported in your life? Who was present, and what did they do to help you?
– Write about a time when you were really proud of yourself. What did you do to achieve that feeling?
– What is something you've always wanted to do? Why haven't you done it yet?
– If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be? Why?
– What do you think is the meaning and purpose of life?
– If you could travel to any place in the world, where would it be? Why?
– Who has been most influential in your life? Why are they important to you?
Journal prompts examples
The following are a few examples of prompts that you can use to explore your thoughts and feelings about anxiety.
– What does anxiety feel like for you? Describe the physical and emotional symptoms you experience.
– What are some things that trigger your anxiety? Try to be specific.
– What are some things that make your anxiety worse?
– Are there any people or situations that make your anxiety better? Why?
– What are some things you do to try and cope with your anxiety? Are they effective?
– What are your thoughts on medication for anxiety? Do you think it's helpful, or do you have reservations about it?
Journaling Prompts for Beginners
If you are just getting started with journaling, you will want to start with prompts that are easier to answer. The following prompts are a great way to get started and help you explore your thoughts and feelings about anxiety.
– What is your favorite thing about journaling?
– What do you think journaling can help you with?
– Why do you want to start journaling?
– What are your goals for journaling?
– What do you want to learn from journaling? How will this help you in the future?
– What are some things that bother you daily? How can journaling help solve or cope with these issues?
– How did you sleep last night?
– What are some things that make you happy?
– What were some of your high points today?
– When do you feel the most anxious in your life, and why does it happen then?
Journal Prompts for Emotions
Journaling is a great way to work through your emotions. The following prompts can help you explore your feelings and start to process them.
– What are you feeling right now? Describe the emotion in detail.
– What are some things that trigger this emotion for you?
– Why do you think you feel this way?
– What do you think this emotion is trying to tell you?
– How can you healthily work through this emotion?
– What are some things that make you feel better when you're feeling this emotion?
– When have you felt this emotion in the past, and how did it turn out?
– What would happen if you didn't feel this emotion? How would your life be different?
– Is there a positive side to feeling this emotion? What is it?
Anxiety Journal Prompts
The following prompts are specifically for exploring your thoughts and feelings about anxiety.
– What does anxiety feel like for you? Describe the physical and emotional symptoms you experience.
– What are some things that trigger your anxiety? Try to be specific.
– What are some things that make your anxiety worse?
– Are there any people or situations that make your anxiety better? Why?
– What are some things you do to try and cope with your anxiety? Are they effective?
– What are your thoughts on medication for anxiety? Do you think it's helpful, or do you have reservations about it?
– What would happen if you didn't have anxiety? How would your life be different?
– Is there anything positive about having anxiety? What is it, and how does it make you feel?
– How can you use your anxiety to be a better and stronger person?
– What advice would you give someone else struggling with similar issues as you?
Journal Prompts for Self Growth
Journaling can also be used as a tool for self-growth. The following prompts can help you explore this side of journaling.
– What are some things you want to change about yourself?
– What are your goals for the future?
– How do you want to be remembered after you die?
– What is the perfect day for you?
– How would you be different if you were not afraid of anything at all?
– What is your biggest regret from this year, and why does it still bother you after time has passed? How can journaling help resolve this issue?
– If you could go back in time and change one thing, what would it be? Why is this something you'd want to change?
– What do you think your life purpose is?
– If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
– Do you think that people are truly capable of change? Why or why not?
– What is the best and worst decision you've ever made? Why?
– How do you define happiness, and how often are you happy?
– Anonymously share one thing that you're ashamed of. Why is this something that still bothers you?
– What would your life look like if you lived it fully authentically?
– What are some things you could accomplish if you didn't give up at the first sign of trouble?
– How would your world change if you believed in yourself more often?
Journal Prompts for Nature and Community
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to connect with nature and your community.
– What are some things you love about nature?
– What does nature remind you of?
– How do you feel when you're outdoors?
– What is your favorite thing to do outside?
– Why do you think it's essential to connect with nature?
– How do you think connecting with nature makes you a better, more understanding person?
– What are some things that make your community unique and special?
– How can we take care of our communities, so they continue to thrive?
– Why is it important to be active in my local community?
Meanwhile, the following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to connect with others.
– What are some things you love about your friends?
– What do you think is the best thing about friendship?
– What is the worst thing about friendship?
– Who is your best friend and why?
– How has your best friend changed your life?
– What are some ways you could be a better friend to the people in your life?
– How can I be a better friend to you?
Journal Prompts for Creative Expression
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to express yourself creatively.
– What are some things that make you feel creative?
– What is your favorite type of art to engage in?
– What does creativity mean to you?
– When do you feel the most creative?
– How has creativity helped you in your life?
– What is a creative project that you've been wanting to do but haven't gotten around to it?
– What are the steps you need to take to complete this project?
– Why do you think it's important for people to express themselves creatively?
Journal Prompts for Self-Discovery
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to further your understanding of yourself.
– What do you value most in life? Why?
– Who has had the most significant impact on who you are today?
– How does this person influence your decisions and behaviors today?
– When was the last time you were pleased? Why were you happy then?
– What are some things that make you unhappy?
– Do you think your life is headed in the right direction? Why or why not?
– What are your hopes and fears for the future?
– Anonymously share something you've never told anyone before. Why is this something you've never told anyone before?
– Who are you most afraid of disappointing? Why?
– What is something you've always wanted to do but haven't yet? Why?
– Do you think that change is always good? Why or why not?
Journal Prompts for Self-Reflection
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to reflect on your life.
– What was the best day of your life? Why?
– What was the worst day of your life? Why?
– What are some things you've accomplished that you're proud of?
– What has been the most impactful loss in your life?
– What is something you've lost that you wish you could get back?
– What are some things about yourself that you want to change?
– How would you go about making these changes happen?
– What are some steps you need to take to improve your life?
– What do you think is the meaning and purpose of life?
Journal Prompts for Mental Wellness
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to improve your mental wellness.
– When do you feel most anxious? Why?
– What are some things that make you feel happy? Why do they make you happy?
– What are some things that make you feel calm and at peace? Why do they have this effect on you?
– What challenges have you faced in your life relating to your mental health?
– What have been some successful strategies for managing your mental health?
– Who has been most supportive of you in your mental health journey? Why are they supportive?
– What do you think is the key to maintaining a healthy mental state?
Journal Prompts for Self-Care
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to engage in self-care.
– What are some things that make you feel cared for and loved?
– How can you ensure that you prioritize self-care in your life?
– What has been one of the most challenging times to practice self-care in your life?
– Why do you think it's important to focus on self-care?
Journal Prompts for Stress Relief
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to relieve stress.
– What are some things that make you feel stressed? Why do they cause stress for you?
– What are some strategies have helped you manage your stress in the past?
– What is something you've been wanting to do but haven't gotten around to it? Why is this something you've been procrastinating on?
– Who are the people in your life that you can count on when things get tough? Why are they so important to you?
– What do you think is the best way to deal with stress and anxiety?
– What makes you feel most at peace? Why is this so important to you?
Journal Prompts for Coping with Grief
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to cope with grief.
– What has been the most challenging thing about grieving the loss of someone close to you?
– What do you miss the most about the person who has died?
– What are some good things that have come from your grieving process?
– What are some ways you've found to cope with your grief?
– Have there been any times when you haven't felt so great since the death of your loved one? What were these times like for you?
– How has the way you've coped with grief changed over time?
– What are your fears about moving on from this loss in your life?
Daily Journaling Prompts
The following prompts can help you get started with daily journaling. Start your daily routine with any of the below prompts, and feel free to reuse your favorite ones or try something new.
These prompts are also great for those that do morning pages.
– What did you do today?
– What were your thoughts and feelings today?
– What were some of the good things that happened today?
– What were some of the struggles you faced today?
– What was your favorite thing about today?
– What was the worst thing about today?
– What did you learn today?
Weekly Journaling Prompts
The following prompts can help you get started with weekly journaling. Start your first week with a prompt about what you hope to get out of your journaling experience. Then you can add different prompts from week to week that works for you. Here are some ideas.
– What are some of the things that have been on your mind?
– What are some issues or topics that have come up frequently in your life recently?
– How do you think these issues might be affecting your life?
– What are some of the things that make you happy in your life?
– What are some of the biggest challenges you face on a day-to-day basis?
– What were your thoughts and feelings this week?
– What were some of the good things that happened this week?
– What were some of the struggles you faced this week?
– What was your favorite thing about this past week?
– What do you think about a typical day in a typical week?
– How has this week been different from other weeks? Why is it so unique?
-What will you do differently next week.
Monthly Journaling Prompts
The following prompts can help you get started with monthly journaling.
– What are some of the highlights from this month?
– What were your thoughts and feelings this month?
– How has this month been different from other months in your life?
– What are some things that make you feel nostalgic about this month?
Mindfulness Journal Prompts
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a means to practice mindfulness.
– What are some things that have been on your mind lately?
– What do you find yourself doing when you're not paying attention to what's going on around you?
– What does it feel like when you're mindfully aware of your surroundings?
– What are some times when it's helpful to practice mindfulness in your daily life?
– How can you practice mindfulness when you're feeling anxious, stressed, or worried?
Personal Journal Prompts
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a way to get in touch with your inner self.
– What is something that nobody else knows about you?
– What are some of the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that you're ashamed of? Why do you think these things make you feel so ashamed?
– What are some things that make you feel happy and fulfilled?
– What do you like about yourself? What don't you like about yourself?
– If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Why is this something you'd want to change?
– What do your dreams tell you about yourself?
– What do you think your soul is trying to tell you?
-What does your dream life look like?
Creative Journal Prompts
The following prompts can help you explore journaling as a way to express yourself creatively.
– Draw or sketch something that represents how you feel today.
– Write a poem about something that's been on your mind lately.
– Write a story about a time when you faced a difficult challenge.
– Write a song about how you're feeling today.
– Create a collage of images representing your thoughts and feelings about a specific topic.
Journal Prompts for Gratitude
The following prompts can help you focus your journaling on gratitude.
– What are some things that make you feel grateful in life?
– What was something that happened today that you're thankful for?
– What has someone else done for you lately that made a big difference in your life?
– What is something you're looking forward to in the future that fills you with gratitude?
– Why do you think it's important to be grateful for the good things in your life?
The Right Journal Prompts for you.
Journaling is a great way to work through feelings and emotions. Keeping a journal and writing even just a few sentences every day can make a huge difference in your daily life and well-being.
There are many different prompts available for journal writing-from exploring what you feel like when you think about anxiety to the things that make you happy. There's something here for everyone!
Let me know if any of these ideas sound interesting or helpful. We hope you were inspired by this blog post.
I'd love to hear from you in the comments below or on social media!
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