Are you a newbie? These journaling prompts for beginners will help you get started
For many people, journaling sounds like a burden. And if you’ve never had a diary or a journal, then even more so. Before you cross it off your list, you might want to try these prompts.
Free writing is usually full of insights when it comes to the power of reflection in a journal. But I get it, it’s tricky if you’re just starting out. “How do I even begin?” is the number one question I get all the time.
After you have your notebook and pen, maybe a cozy setup and some time alone (check this video on How to start journaling for beginners), you are ready to write.
Here are 10 journaling prompts for beginners when you first use your journal:
*keep reading or skip to the end of this post to watch the YouTube video
- I just thought about…
This is the best way to start your journal. Pay attention to what you’re thinking about and write it down. (Just like Facebook asks you “What’s on your mind?“) It’s also a great practice for self-awareness and listening to your thoughts. Give it a go.
2. Right now, my body feels…
Another great practice for your self-awareness is paying attention to your body. Is there any pain or any tension? What is your body trying to tell you? We store so many messages in our body and there is so much wisdom in the little red flags, we just need to listen, write it down and take action.
3. I am grateful for…
This is one of the most well known journaling prompts for beginners. It’s very popular for all levels actually. Keeping a gratitude journal has many benefits and moreover it boosts your positive emotions. Write about the big things and the small things. Start with I’m grateful for … or I want to say thank you for….
4. I believe I can…
Yes, you can! Anything you put your mind to, you can achieve it. Write down your qualities and everything you believe you can do. This way, you will get a boost of confidence and trust in your own skills and abilities.
5. What I love most in my life is…
This can be a continuation of your gratitude list. The ultimate goal is to connect you with all the situations, people and assets in your reality so that you realize how blessed you are. So what do you love most in your life right now?
How’s it going? Do you feel warmed up with writing?
6. I am proud of myself for…
Whenever I do this exercise with my students in workshops, I see a lot of resistance. People are set up for looking at our failures and judging ourselves. In fact, we believe it’s rude and wrong to praise our accomplishments. It’s easier to punish ourselves than reward our victories.
Now is the moment to break this cycle. Even if it takes longer and you need to think hard, I believe in you and I am proud of you! What are YOU proud of yourself for? Think about obstacles you had to overcome. What qualities you have that you love?
7. I feel happy when …
This is pretty simple and self-explanatory. What makes you happy? When are you happy?
8. Last night, I was dreaming about…
Keeping a dream journal is also a very powerful practice. Your subconscious communicates with you in your sleep through dreams. If you remember the dream, it means it was an importan message for you. Remember it and write it down. What message do you think it carries for you?
9. For my next birthday I wish…
Everyone loves birthdays, is that right? Or at least birthday parties! With all the pandemic cancelling our plans and having us celebrating in a different way, this is your chance to make a wish. Write down how you wish to spend your next birthday, who is there and what makes it special. Connect to the excitement and boost your mood.
10. My favourite memory is…
This is usually the moment whe you start writing without getting tired. Think back of your childhood or your teenage years. What was a remarkable moment that you are fond of? Give yourself permission to write as long as you want.
This is it. You are officially a journaling practitioner. You are now equipped to start your first journal with these 10 journaling prompts for beginners.
