2020 was a hard year for many of us and being that it wasn’t entirely full of rainbows and joy, it’s important to find things that offer some form of happiness — like journaling! I started to journal last summer when I realized journaling is a creative outlet that is simultaneously beneficial for my mental health. Writing down goals, thoughts, and feelings can quickly lead to a more productive and positive lifestyle. Now that I have journaled almost every day over the past few months, I’ve found some helpful tips and prompts to share!
TIPS
1. Journal at the very beginning or very end of your days. I’ve found that writing when you first wake up not only distracts you from your phone, but helps you realize how you’re feeling at the start of your day versus the end. I’ve noticed when I compare the two, I can pinpoint things that happened during my day and how much they affected my mood.
2. There is no outline to journaling, so be creative! Whether it’s a to-do list, inspiring quote, or how you’re feeling — it’s all beneficial! As a procrastinator myself, I find it extremely helpful to plan out my days in my journal. This has helped immensely with staying on track of homework and Zoom meetings. It’s always fun to dedicate some pages for doodling and self-expression too!
3. Reflect after writing a journaling prompt. Writing down your feelings is helpful in itself, but taking the time to read over and analyze it can provide insight on what is really bothering you and what steps you can take next to help.
4. Don’t throw out pages or the journal itself… EVER! Looking back at past thoughts can be scary, but it’s important to recognize the growth that emerged between then and now. My favorite part about journaling so far was when I finally filled out all the pages of my journal and revisited the good and the bad of those few months. Although it isn’t always easy, I became aware of how far I’ve come and how much I improved myself.
PROMPTS
Although journaling can be as simple as writing some reminders or jotting down the events of your day, it’s helpful to reflect on some questions to dive deep into your feelings. Here are some of my favorites:
1. Who does your highest self look like? What can you start doing/implementing into your life to show up as them?
2. What’s the biggest promise you’ve made to yourself that you’ve broken? How does it make you feel?
3. What is your worst trait? What positive aspects does it bring along?
4. List 3 things that scare you and why.
5. Think of someone that has caused you pain and write them a letter of forgiveness.
EVERYDAY PROMPTS
If you already journal frequently or are just starting up and want to stay consistent, I have a few extra prompts for you! These are simple prompts that you can write down and acknowledge every day to practice gratitude and stay positive.
1. What are you grateful for?
2. What are three things that made you smile today?
3. What are you looking forward to today?
4. What’s the most meaningful piece of advice you’ve received? (I like to dedicate an entire page to this one and continue filling it in whenever something resonates with me. Soon you’ll have a full page of motivating words.)
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