Mindful journal prompts are a necessity these days. With the stressful year we’ve had, everyone needs some “me” time. Journaling is a great way for you to clear your mind while also learning more about yourself. Whether you’re new to journaling or a pro, these 10 mindful journal prompts will help you start a dialogue between you and your innermost self. So grab a pen and paper, and let’s get started!
I wanted to start this list off with my favorite prompt of all time. It’s simple, and you might be thinking, “my Grandma asks me this question on our FaceTime calls, why is this special?”
Taking the time to write down your current mood, and more importantly, the events that have triggered the emotions that you are feeling is a healthy way for you to confront your feelings. Sometimes it’s too hard to talk to a friend about why you’re down. But putting your thoughts onto paper is a safe, private way to release some of those negative feelings that might be festering inside of you.
So today, I want you to check in with yourself and answer honestly, how are you feeling today?
Everybody makes mistakes, everybody has those days! But how you respond to challenging situations will tell you a lot about yourself. Do you crack under pressure? Are you able to say sorry easily? Remember, nobody is perfect, but writing down your mistakes and thinking through what went wrong is a great way to ensure that history won’t repeat itself!
This is one of the most important mindful journal prompts right now. Since the beginning of the pandemic, people all over the world have turned to technology in their isolation. While this can be a positive way to stay in touch with loved ones or express your creative side, it can also trigger depressing, envious thoughts. You might be scrolling down Instagram and wonder, do I look that good? Am I as happy as she seems to be? Why can’t I get a job as good as his?
Having these thoughts is completely normal. Yet, rather than bottling up your insecurities, release them through your writing. Trust me, you will feel better afterward!
Ok, I know, this one is deep. But haven’t you heard the saying, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree? Whether we want to or not, it is important to recognize the similarities we share with our parents, and in this way, we can get a better sense of our future selves.
For instance, do you agree with your Dad more often than with your Mom? Who do you fight with the most? Do you strive to obtain certain characteristics from one parent over the other, and why? You certainly don’t have to answer these additional questions, they’re just more food for thought!
As we grow into young adults, it’s important to actively think about our future and the goals we want to set for ourselves. This mindful journal prompt will help you create a list of steps you can take to advance your career. Say you’re in college right now and dream of being a journalist. While it’s unlikely you’ll get a paid staff-writing job now, write down that you want to obtain an internship at a magazine. Or maybe you can volunteer at your school newspaper as an editor.
These ideas don’t have to be life-altering changes, so aim for manageable tasks that you know you can handle. Soon enough, you’ll be that bad-ass-boss-lady we know you can be!
Although you can learn so much from writing about yourself, you can discover even more by writing about the people you love. Think of that sibling who has always had your back, or of that friend who’s your ride or die. What do you like most about them? What do you think they like about you?
Oftentimes we are attracted to people who act the opposite of how we do, and identifying those attributes we like in our loved ones can tell us what we think of ourselves.
Most of the time you are your own worst critic, so it’s good to give yourself a pat on the back every now and then. Think back to a special moment when you were proud of yourself. It can be as simple as catching your first wave while surfing, to graduating from college. Today, inspire yourself with your achievements!
We all want to be happy. To you, this might mean financial security or starting a family. Perhaps it means pursuing a Ph.D. or proposing to your significant other. Maybe being happy is as simple as eating a bowl of ice cream. Whatever the case, write down what you think happiness really is.
While it’s always nice to vent, gratitude prompts are more than helpful. Mindful journal prompts such as this one helps us remember the positives in our lives. So no matter how bad things get, try and see the light at the end of the tunnel.
It’s always great to set goals. For this prompt, try picturing where you see yourself 5 years from now. Do you have that dream job you’ve always wanted? Has your soul mate proposed yet? Did you finally adopt that Chihuahua? While planning for the future is healthy, it’s important to not get too caught up in deadlines. Keep working hard, try your best, and good things are sure to come your way!
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