What Are Journaling Prompts For Beginners? + 50 Creative Prompts

Journaling provides us with a much-needed outlet for our many passing thoughts and feelings. It gives us the time and space to express ourselves and let out any bottled-up emotions. But sometimes, the words don’t flow as freely as we’d like, and that’s where journaling prompts come in. So, what are journaling prompts, and how do I get started? Keep reading to find out!

What Is Journaling?

Journaling is the act of writing down your thoughts and feelings. It really is as simple as that. By writing down our thoughts, we can process any pent-up emotions, connect with ourselves and prioritize our needs. It also provides a wonderful opportunity for positive self-talk and a way to express gratitude.

For a deep dive on all things journaling, click here! 

How Do I Start a Journaling Practice?

Starting a journaling practice can have a ton of positive effects on your mental health and your life! And there’s no better time than now to start. 

We recommend purchasing a journal that you love, specifically for your journaling practice. You’ll be more inclined to pick it up as opposed to an old, messy notebook. 

You might find it helpful to reserve 30 minutes a day at a specific time for your practice, especially when you’re just getting started. Some people enjoy writing as soon as they wake up to start the day on a positive note. And others prefer journaling in the evening to reflect upon their day and express gratitude. 

Choose your preferred time, and make sure you set a daily reminder to journal on your phone, so you don’t forget! 

When it comes to journaling, there are a couple of different approaches you can take. You might choose to write out your stream of consciousness – meaning you simply write about whatever’s on your mind. Or, you might opt for journaling prompts instead. What are journaling prompts? More on that below.

What Are Journaling Prompts For Beginners?

Journaling prompts give you a clear idea and intention on what to write. They spark your imagination to get the words flowing.

Sometimes you pick up your pad and pen and expect the words to pour out effortlessly. But unfortunately, that’s not always the case! Journaling prompts are there for when you want to write, but just don’t know what to write about. And they’re especially helpful for those who are new to their journaling practice. 

50 Inspiring Journaling Prompts For Beginners

Here are our favorite 50 journaling prompts to help get you started with your journaling practice. 

• What are 10 things you love about yourself?
• How would your friends and family describe you?
• What is one thing you love about your appearance? 
• If you could talk to your future self, what would you say?
• What are your core values?
• If you could talk to your 10-year-old self, what would you say?
• Write a letter to someone who has treated you poorly and express forgiveness. 

What is your deepest fear?

• What is your proudest moment?
• If you had one day left to live, what would you do?
• What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
• Who do you look up to the most and why?
• What is holding you back from being your best self?
• What is one thing you would like to work on?
• How do you deal with difficult moments?
• What is the best book you’ve read and why?
• If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

What are 10 things you are grateful for?

• What is something that surprised you about yourself? 
• Where do you want to be in five years?
• List 3 ways you have grown as a person in the last five years.
• What is your favorite quality in a person?
• Where do you find the most inspiration?
• What have you accomplished this week, or what do you want to accomplish? 

What are 5 things on your bucket list?

• Define your personal style. 
• What is something you’ve been avoiding?
• Write about someone who has affected you, good or bad. 
• What role do you play in your family or friend group?
• How do you think you are perceived by others?
• What are three words to describe your life right now?
• Describe your dream home.
• What is your favorite song, and why?
• What is one memory that sticks out from your childhood?

Describe a time you felt empowered.

• How do you show yourself love?
• Do you think you show yourself enough love?
• What is the kindest thing someone has done for you?
• And the kindest thing you’ve done for someone else?
• Is there anyone you need to forgive?
• How would you like to be remembered?
• What are 3 characteristics you would like to possess?

Is there anything you take for granted?

• What is something you currently tolerate but shouldn’t?
• What causes do you feel passionate about?
• Are you living authentically to yourself?
• Write a letter to yourself expressing forgiveness for your mistakes.
• What was your childhood dream?
• Describe a time when you were brave.
• What is your idea of a perfect day?

Getting Started With Your Journaling Practice

When it comes to journaling, it’s important to remember that your practice is for you and you only. Don’t overthink what you’re writing. In fact, it doesn’t even have to make sense, and you don’t have to read it. EVER! And you certainly don’t have to share your writing with anyone else.

If you find one journal prompt fills three pages, great! But if you find you only write one sentence, that’s great too. Don’t stress about how much or what you’re writing. What’s important is that you’re actually doing it.

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