Life moves fast. Faster than we usually realize. Between classes, work, social plans and everything in between, it’s easy to go from one thing to the next without ever really checking in with ourselves. We get so used to being “on” all the time that slowing down can start to feel unfamiliar, even uncomfortable.
Over the years, I’ve found that journaling helps me slow down and collect my thoughts. Although it is hard to find the time to sit down and write, I’ve always walked away from writing feeling much better about the tasks at hand.
Sometimes one of the hardest parts is figuring out where to start. To tackle that, below are five journal prompts that can guide you in times when you are feeling stuck and overwhelmed.
- The Gratitude Journal
-
This is one of my personal favorites. All you need to do is sit down for a few minutes and think about the things you are grateful for. It can range from anywhere to a grade on an exam to the sun being out that day.
Don’t limit yourself to big things because the small things are the most prevalent in our lives. This type of prompt reminds me that even when I am experiencing a rough patch, there are still things going well, even if I have to sit with it for a minute.
It can change any bad mood into something a little more positive, but it also sets things into perspective. It reminds you of all that you’re working toward in your life and that, despite it all, everything will work out.
Gratitude journaling can ground you even in the midst of immense chaos.
- Three Lessons You Learned In The Last Six Months
-
This prompt is about reflecting on the past few months and reflecting on three important things you’ve learned. I personally believe we are constantly learning lessons, but due to the busy nature of life, we never stop to realize these important lessons, so this prompt gives you a moment to do that.
These lessons can include challenges you’ve overcome, new skills you’ve gained or just general insights. Writing them down not only makes them prevalent in your mind but also makes the growth visible, which helps you gain confidence in yourself.
- What Advice Would You Give Someone Else?
-
This prompt is one I always find myself writing. This focuses on writing about an issue or a stressful event that you are currently facing and writing the issue in detail, every part that stresses you out.
Then, you take the problem and imagine it was one of your friends or family members telling you about that problem. How would you advise them? This is the part where you write a solution, the same way you would give them advice. This is helpful because you stop overthinking and truly start thinking about problem-solving.
Writing advice for someone else often helps you see your own circumstances more clearly and can reveal solutions you hadn’t considered.
- What Do You Need More Of In Your Life Right Now?
-
This prompt focuses on taking a moment to reflect on what is missing from your life right now. It is meant to give you a moment to focus on yourself and everything that you are feeling. Is it rest, fun, connection or maybe more focus?
Identifying what you truly need is the first step for making space for it, and journaling about it can help you clarify your priorities. This prompt is one that truly helps in connecting you to yourself and all your emotions.
- An Event Coming Up That You Are Looking Forward To
-
Write about something on your calendar that excites you, no matter how big or small. Anticipating positive events can boost your mood and motivation. I know personally, sometimes the event for me is a coffee date on a Saturday with a friend or a summer vacation.
Include what excites you about it and what you’re looking forward to the most. This prompt helps remind you that there are good things coming amidst the stress and gives you a moment in time where you can forget about the current struggles.
It is important to always remind yourself that good things are coming, and this prompt serves that purpose.
Journaling isn’t about writing perfectly or having all the answers; it is about giving yourself the space to pause and reflect. These prompts are just starting points, little ways to slow down, check in with yourself and celebrate both your growth and your goals. I hope these prompts can help you give yourself a little more peace each day.