130 + Journaling Prompts When You Don’t Know What To Write About

Journaling is a valuable tool for self-expression, self-reflection, and personal growth. It provides a safe and private space to explore your thoughts and emotions, gain insights into yourself, and create a lasting record of your life's journey.

Starting to write in your journal can be intimidating because, many times, you don't know what to write, but this is totally normal.

For this, there are journaling prompts with specific questions or ideas that serve to start writing about a particular topic that you want to put into perspective to free your mind.

Having a journal is therapeutic because it allows you to recognize your emotions, feelings, and experiences and how to deal with them.

You don't need to be an expert in writing about this kind of thing; you just need to be honest with yourself and be aware of all the situations to achieve a positive change in your life.

So now that I have told you this, if you want to start practicing journaling as a therapy but you don't know what to write, don't worry! Here is a list of journaling prompts for every situation you are facing in your life.

12 Memorable Journal Prompts Ideas

Everyone has a story to be told; what's yours? Memorable journaling prompts are great for making a self-reflection that will help you not only to preserve memorable experiences for the future but to create a personal archive of your life experiences.

All those memories back in your high school years, your first kiss, or even your first heartbreak can be safe in your journal so you can revisit all these memories whenever you can.

Self-discovery is also something that can happen when you start writing down all these past experiences. Delving into the details of emotions and feelings associated with these memories can help you uncover beliefs that shape your identity by understanding them.

Another thing to notest is that journaling memories can evoke a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the little things that may have left a mark on you. Gratitude is something we can all cultivate for our own happiness.

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So, here is a list of memorable journaling prompts you can use to relive moments:

1. "What was your favorite subject in school?"

2. "Did you ever get lost?"

3. "What book did you read over and over again as a child?"

4. "As a child, who was your favorite relative?"

5. "What was your favorite toy?"

6. "Who was your favorite teacher?"

7. "What is your most vivid memory of the kitchen in your childhood?"

8. "Who was your best friend in elementary school?"

9. "What’s your first memory?"

10. "As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?"

11. "What was your favorite cartoon?"

12. "Did you ever run away from home?"

6 Lettering Journal Prompts Ideas

Lettering journal prompts are not meant to be perfect; let's just start from there. They are not meant to be pretty or "aesthetic" but rather to embrace your imperfections and enjoy the results of your creative mindset, so grab your markers, pen, or brushes and let your letters come to life on the pages of your journal.

Keep one thing in mind: you don't have to be an artist to develop your visual communication skills; through the use of your creativity, you can enhance the impact and clarity of your messages.

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Here are some lettering journal prompt ideas that can help you get inspired:

13. "Write a fan letter to your favorite actor/actress."

14. "Is there something you’re reluctant to tell someone? Write a letter to help you organize your thoughts."

15. "Write a letter to be read by each of your loved ones after you’ve passed away."

16. "Write a letter to someone who believed in you even when you didn’t believe in yourself."

17. "Write a letter to the editor of your favorite magazine telling them what features you would like to see included in the magazine."

18. "Write a letter to someone you need to forgive."

10 Motivational Journal Prompts

Have you ever felt a lack of motivation? And you feel like you are stuck in a maze with no way out? You may feel that there is something missing in life, but you certainly don't know what it is? Don't worry; I'm here for you.

Trying to find motivation is motivation. I know it sounds weird, but a motivational journal can bring positivity to your life. When you start thinking about getting your motivation back, somehow, you start to find the answers you need to hear.

It's as if you were writing a letter to your future self in which you are going to project yourself as this enlightened being who somehow has it all figured out.

Documenting your small wins and celebrating your progress, no matter how insignificant they may seem, can make you realize the things you already accomplish and the ones you can still achieve.

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Here are some motivational journaling prompts to bring your motivation back:

19. "Where would you like to be in five years?"

20. "Who do you admire the most, and why?"

21. "What drives you?"

22. "What do you want? Where is your passion?"

23. "What is your definition of success?"

24. "Which steps are you taking to achieve your goals?"

25. "If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Why do you want to change it?"

26. "What have you done recently that you are proud of?"

27. "What music do you listen to, and why?"

28. "In what aspects are you lacking? What are your personal strengths? How can you improve?"

35 Self-Confidence & Self-Discovery Journal Prompts

Have you ever seen someone walk into a room and fill the space with energy and self-confidence that you envy them? To do this, it is important to know yourself in depth.

Recognizing the challenges you had to go through, the lessons you learned, and the strengths you gained makes you start to gain self-confidence.

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Here are some journaling prompts to get to know you better and develop self- confidence:

29. "What are my core values?"

30. "What does my ideal life look like?"

31. "What are my goals and aspirations?"

32. "What are my strengths and weaknesses?"

33. "How have my interests changed over time?"

34. "When do I feel most alive?"

35. "How can I leverage my strengths and work on my weaknesses?"

36. "What are some of my most memorable and meaningful experiences? How can they inspire me moving forward?"

37. "What have been the most defining moments of my life?"

38. "What gives my life meaning or purpose?"

39. "What are my fears and limiting beliefs?"

40. "How can I embrace change and new opportunities in my life?"

41. "What activities bring me the most joy and fulfillment?"

42. "What are my passions and interests?"

43. "What is one step I can take today to work towards a goal that will build my self-confidence?"

44. "What are some things that make me feel confident?"

45. "What are some negative self-talk patterns that I engage in, and how can I reframe those thoughts in a more positive way?"

46. "What impact do I hope to make in the world?"

47. "What are my unique qualities and strengths, and how can I embrace and celebrate them more fully?"

48. "What is one thing I can do today to step outside of my comfort zone and build my confidence?"

49. "What are my strengths and how can I utilize them to achieve my goals?"

50. "How have I overcome challenges in the past, and what did I learn from those experiences?"

51. "What would I say to a friend who is struggling with self-confidence, and how can I apply that advice to my own life?"

52. "What are three things I accomplished this week that I am proud of?"

53. "What are some compliments that others have given me in the past, and how can I internalize those positive messages?"

54. "What is one negative thought I have about myself that I can challenge with a positive thought?"

55. "How can I embrace my unique qualities and use them to my advantage?"

56. "What is one small step I can take today to work towards a personal goal or dream?"

57. "How can I take care of myself and practice self-compassion in moments when I feel uncertain or doubtful?"

58. "How have I grown and changed as a person in the past year?"

59. "What are my unique strengths and how have they helped me in the past?"

60. "What are three things I love about myself?"

61. "How can I be kinder to myself today?"

62. "What can I do to take care of myself physically and emotionally today?"

63. "What is a positive affirmation I can repeat to myself throughout the day?"

37 Journaling Prompts To Overcome Sadness & Negativity

Life is a roller coaster of ups and downs. And sometimes, we are stuck in a loop of negative thoughts that only leave us disconsolate and with little motivation.

I'm not going to fool you, and the truth is that we've all been in that loop for quite some time.

But the truth is that every time we open up to forgive ourselves, to not be so hard on ourselves, and try not to judge us, we give the opportunity for good things to come into our lives.

One of the techniques to do this is through journaling, as it serves as a mirror in which our own life is being reflected.

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Here is a list of journaling prompts to overcome sadness and negativity:

64. "Write about all the things you have accomplished during this particular period in your life. What were some of your major achievements? What did you accomplish that others don’t know about? Why did it matter to you personally? Were you able to move past these events? If so, how?"

65. "Are there positive qualities about yourself that you’re proud of? Write about these traits and abilities. How did they affect your decisions or behavior in certain situations? Consider your weaknesses too. Write about them too."

66. "Write about dreams that you still have left unrealized. These may include things like losing weight, getting married, or buying a house. Remember, even though it’s been months or years since you had these dreams, you never lose your hope. You just need to put new energy into achieving them."

67. "Make a list of all those who support you. Who inspires you to keep going despite obstacles? Do you have an array of friends and family members who stand by you no matter what? Which ones do you count among your closest friends?"

68. "Write about a person whom you trust. Tell us why you value their company. Where do you meet these trustworthy individuals?"

69. "Describe a person whose presence inspires you everyday. Who do you look up to? What are your reasons behind admiring him or her? Why is it that you respect him or her so much? The more specific you make your description, the more powerful it becomes."

70. "Write about your current feelings. How are you feeling now? This is important because jotting down your thoughts and feelings will help you realize what needs to change in your life. What should you do differently next time? How can you improve your relationships?"

71. "Write about some of the people you talk to regularly. What keeps you talking to them? Does it take time to call them back after being away for days or weeks? How was the conversation?"

72. "Write about things that you would like to happen in the future. Some people think writing about goals is selfish. But if you follow through with some of them, then it will feel rewarding. For example- “I’d love to travel more! I’m planning to go hiking in Japan. Also, my daughter wants to learn to swim.”"

73. "Have you ever doubted whether or not you’ll be successful at something? Explain why you kept doubting yourself. Be as honest as possible without hurting anybody."

74. "Reflect and write about any changes or habits that you’ve noticed in your life since starting out on this journaling journey. What is different today than yesterday? What do you see growing stronger? What do you notice happening more often?"

75. "Think about times when you felt alone. Did anyone help you through difficult times? Is there someone close to you who you can share your feelings with? Share your thoughts with your writer buddy."

76. "Think about a person whom you admire. Write about him or her. What he or she has done that made you remember his or her name? How does he or she make you feel? What kind of impact has he or she made on the world?"

77. "Take a moment right now and decide what one thing you want to work on over the coming year. Write about it."

78. "List a few of the most important life lessons that are currently being taught to you. What have you learned from each event? Think about the good and bad sides of every situation. What advice would you give someone else facing similar circumstances?"

79. "Have you ever tried to break out of a habit or bad pattern? What happened to you? Could you explain why you failed? What will you try next time?"

80. "What would you change about yourself if you knew you couldn’t fail?"

81. "Write about a favorite memory. You might have forgotten about it but you must have enjoyed it. Now, consider the reason behind its significance."

82. "What are your goals for the future? What steps are you taking towards reaching those goals? Are they realistic?"

83. "Write about your best friend who means the most to you. Talk about his or her personality, values, strengths and weaknesses; and how he or she has made a difference in your life."

84. "Describe a situation where you had to rely on yourself. Were you able to handle everything by yourself? Were you proud of yourself?"

85. "Imagine that you’re 15 years old today. How is your life compared with where it is right now? If you were born today, what career choice would you make? Write about it."

86. "What kind of person do you admire? What makes you like him or her? What does he or she do well? What do you wish you could learn from him or her?"

87. "Think about a time you went against the grain. Perhaps you didn’t want to go along with your friends’ plans even though you thought you were wrong. Think about whether you succeeded."

88. "Describe a time when you felt great joy. Was there anything special that played a role in leading you to that point? It doesn’t matter if it was big or small. We all experience happiness from time to time. So write about it."

89. "Has anyone helped you in the past? Who was that person? What did s/he do for you?"

90. "Try telling a story about any event that has led you to a positive attitude. Give details. Make sure it has an ending."

91. "Think about the person who gave you the greatest gift ever. What did s/he say to you? Would you tell him or her how grateful you were for s/he’s act of kindness?"

92. "Do you often find yourself asking questions such as: ‘What should I do?’ ‘Why am I doing this?’ ‘Where should I be headed?’? Think about how each question changes depending upon circumstances."

93. "Describe a person you admired. He or she must have been unique. Did s/he exhibit some personality traits or beliefs that you feel comfortable with?"

94. "Write about something you’ve always wanted to do but never got around to. Why haven’t you done it yet?"

95. "Write about a time when you experienced fear. What was going through your mind during that time? What did you do to overcome the fear?"

96. "Write about someone’s character traits (or lack thereof). What were they like? What influenced their actions? Did you come away convinced?"

97. "Write about someone whose words meant a lot to you. What were they saying? What influenced them?"

98. "Do you feel overwhelmed with responsibility at times? How can you take better control over things?"

99. "Is there anyone you care deeply about whom you don’t see too much of anymore? Consider writing to this person. Tell him or her how important s/he is to you."

100. "Ask yourself: “How well do I know myself?” “Am I satisfied with my current level of knowledge regarding certain areas of my life?” “Do I need to expand my horizons to achieve more?"

36 Journaling Prompts For Self-Awareness & Relationships

Knowing yourself is an act of self-love and, most importantly, self-awareness. In fact, taking the time to accept yourself as you are and love yourself unconditionally can lead to healthy relationships with others.

Have You heard that old saying: you can't love someone else if you don't love yourself enough? Well, that's how it works.

Self-awareness and relationship prompts can help you become more aware of the actions and qualities you value in a relationship, what you are willing to give, and what you are willing to receive because, at the end of the day, a relationship is made up of two people.

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That's why recognizing your strengths and weaknesses is important. Here is the list of journaling prompts for self-awareness and relationships.

101. "How do you feel about being part of the human race (good or bad)? Why or why not?"

102. "What’s one thing that makes you proud of yourself?"

103. "Who’re your role models? And why?"

104. "Describe the last time you felt good about yourself (and why)."

105. "What’s one thing that makes each person special and unique, even if they don’t know it themselves yet?"

106. "What boundaries do you need to set with others and yourself to prioritize your goals and self-care?"

107. "How did you learn who you’re and what’s important to you?"

108. "How does the way other people perceive you affect the way you perceive yourself?"

109. "What’s the best advice you have ever given someone?"

110. "Have you regretted anything in your life (something big or small)? How has that affected the way you approach your life today?"

111. "Do you tend to use words, actions, or other methods to show someone you love them?"

112. "How does your family influence who you’re today?"

113. "What’s been your best decision in life so far? Why has it worked out so well for you?"

114. "How can you improve your relationships in the future?"

115. "What have you always wanted to try but never had the opportunity to?"

116. "Who was the most influential person in your life, and why do they hold that place in your heart?"

117. "What has been the most difficult situation in your life so far? What helped you overcome them?"

118. "What’s your favorite childhood memory?"

119. "What’s the best thing you have ever done?"

120. "When you spend time with someone, are you more likely to feel loved or judged?"

121. "Describe a recent failure and how you felt then, and then describe how you felt afterward (if applicable). How did that failure change your view of life or yourself? Did it help or hurt your self-esteem in any way? How did this failure change the way others think about you?"

122. "What’s the most important lesson you learned from a failure?"

123. "What is the most important lesson you learned from your family or friends?"

124. "What’s your greatest accomplishment?"

125. "How do you feel about yourself five years ago? Ten years ago? Twenty years ago? Thirty years ago?"

126. "What’s kept you from achieving what you want?"

127. "What’s the best compliment you have ever received?"

128. "When was the last time you lost your temper? And why? Would you change anything if you could?"

129. "When was the last time you cried tears of joy or sadness?"

130. "What was the hardest decision you ever had to make?"

131. "What do you wish you could do more in life?"

132. "If you had unlimited resources, what would you do with them?"

133. "What do you wish people knew about you that they don’t know now?"

134. "Would you rather have a lot of money or a lot of time? And why?"

135. "What would you do if you knew no one would judge you?"

136. "How can you be more present at the moment?"

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Journal When Confused?

Journaling Prompts When You're Feeling Lost And Overwhelmed In Life

• Take a moment to reflect on your current emotions and write about them.
• Shift your focus to the things you have accomplished during this specific period in your life.
• Reflect on any changes or habits you have noticed in your life since you started your journaling journey.

How Do You Journal When You Don't Like To Write?

Topics To Journal About

• Take time to reflect on what you're grateful for in your life, appreciating even the smallest things.
• Pause and ask yourself how you're truly feeling at this moment.
• Look ahead to tomorrow and set goals for the day.
• Engage your senses by describing your surroundings in detail.

What Are Some Good Journaling Prompts?

Journaling Prompts Examples

• What brings you happiness?
• Describe a place where you felt complete.
• What was your greatest nightmare, and how did you conquer it?
• Write a letter to someone that you always want to thank but have never had the chance to do so.
• What is something that you would like to change about yourself?

Continue Reading 👉: 120 Positive Journaling Prompts To Achieve A Positive Mindset