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50 Inspiring Journal Prompts to Spark Your Creativity

Sanjana is a health writer and editor. Her work spans various health-related topics, including mental health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

Rachel Goldman, PhD FTOS, is a licensed psychologist, clinical assistant professor, speaker, wellness expert specializing in eating behaviors, stress management, and health behavior change.

Cavan Images / Getty Images

Benefits of Using Journal Prompts

How to use journal prompts, journal prompts you can try, how do you come up with a journal prompt.

A journal can be a trusted companion that helps you reflect on your thoughts, feelings, actions, decisions, and relationships. Research shows that journaling is linked to better planning, lower stress, and better physical and mental health.

Whether you write in your journal regularly or you’re just getting started, you might sometimes find yourself staring at a blank page and wondering what to write. If you’re at a loss for words, a journal prompt can come to the rescue.

Journal prompts are suggestions, ideas, or questions that can help guide and inspire your journal entries, says Sabrina Romanoff , PsyD, a clinical psychologist and professor at Yeshiva University.

“Prompts are typically themes to reflect on or questions that are meant to motivate you to think deeper about something,” Dr. Romanoff adds.

In this article, we suggest some journal prompts that can spark your creativity . We also ask the expert for some strategies that can help you create your own journal prompts.

Prompted journaling, also known as guided journaling, offers several benefits:

• Starting point: If you’ve never tried journaling before or if you’re experiencing writer’s block, journal prompts can help you get started.
• Direction: Prompts can provide direction to your writing, says Dr. Romanoff. By focusing on a specific topic or question, you can explore your thoughts and feelings around it. 
• Structure: Sometimes, you might prefer to write down your thoughts freely as they occur. However, there may be times when you want to organize your thoughts more coherently. Journal prompts can provide the structure you need to organize your thoughts.
• Creativity: Using different journal prompts can introduce variety to your journaling experience. It can encourage you to think more creatively and approach things from different angles.
• Insight: Journal prompts can provide topics or themes that help you explore fresh perspectives and new dimensions of yourself, says Dr. Romanoff. This process can help you discover personal insights and promote greater self-awareness .
• Consistency: Having a prompt to guide each journaling session can encourage you to maintain a regular journaling practice. The prompts can make journaling feel like a purposeful and engaging activity, which may help you be more consistent with it.

These are some strategies that can help you use journal prompts:

• Find prompts that inspire you: Dr. Romanoff suggests making a list of prompts that you find inspiring or motivating—you can come up with your own, buy a journal with prompts, or look online for examples.
• Decide your frequency: It can be helpful to set a frequency for journaling, such as daily, weekly, monthly or at any other interval that works for you. You can use prompts every time you journal or just when you’re feeling stagnant and craving inspiration or motivation for your journaling session, says Dr. Romanoff.
• Keep an open mind: Approach prompted journaling with an open mind . Reflect on the prompt and explore where it takes you. You can write as much or as little as you like. 
• Get creative: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your responses or limit yourself only to words. You can even pen down your thoughts and feelings in the form of drawings or poetry, if you prefer.
• Be honest and authentic: Honesty is key to getting the most out of journaling. Write from the heart and don't be afraid to express your true feelings, even if they are complex or challenging.
• Reflect on your responses: After you've written your responses, take a moment to reflect on what you've written. Consider how your thoughts and emotions have evolved over the course of writing them down.

These are some journal prompts that can help you get started.

Self-Discovery Prompts

Self-discovery prompts can help you self-reflect and get to know yourself better. Greater self-awareness is linked to improved emotional intelligence.

These are some journal prompts that can enable self-discovery:

• First, list five words that best describe you. Then, think about which five words you would like to describe yourself.
• Complete this sentence: “My life would be incomplete without….”
• Reflect on a phrase, quote, or mantra that resonates with you. Explain why it’s significant to you.
• Make a list of the things in your life that you’re most grateful for.
• Explain what you do best.
• Reflect on the qualities that you value most in others.
• Share three things that made you smile today.
• List your best and worst habits.
• Write down three life lessons you’ve learned.
• Explain what love means to you.
• Describe the values that are most important to you and consider whether your actions align with them.
• Think about what you would do with your life if you had unlimited resources and explain why.
• Describe what is stressing you out and how you’re coping with it.
• Write about your biggest regret and what you would do differently in hindsight.
• Identify and label the fears and insecurities that are holding you back right now.

Personal Growth Prompts

These are some journal prompts that can encourage personal growth:

• What are three short-term goals you would like to achieve within the next three months?
• What are three long-term goals you would like to achieve within the next five years?
• Which skill would you like to cultivate in yourself?
• Which qualities do you admire most in others that you would like to develop in yourself?
• Which areas of your life would benefit from more self-discipline ?
• What is your worst habit and how would you change it?
• What’s something new you would like to try?
• What habit do you want to add to your daily routine?
• What would you like to contribute to your community?
• What is the biggest challenge you’re dealing with right now?
• What is the biggest failure you’ve ever faced and what have you learned from it?
• How would you like to be remembered by others?
• How can you better support your loved ones?
• What boundaries would you like to set in your relationships to protect yourself?

Mindfulness Prompts

Mindfulness prompts can help you become more aware of your thoughts, emotions, senses, and surroundings. Being more mindful can help you be more intentional and purposeful in the way you live your life.

These are some journal prompts that can support greater mindfulness:

• Describe a meal you ate today. What colors, textures, tastes, and feelings did you experience?
• Pick an everyday object from your surroundings, like a plant or a pencil. Write a detailed description of it as if you've never seen it before.
• Focus on a sound in the background, such as the ticking of a clock or the rustling of the breeze. Describe the sound and its impact on you.
• Close your eyes for a minute and pay attention to your breath. When you open your eyes, write down what it felt like.
• Describe your ideal day from morning to night. What activities, people, and experiences would be part of it?
• Reflect on your thoughts without judgment . Identify and describe any feelings you're experiencing in the present moment.
• Write about a recent interaction with someone. What were their words, expressions, and gestures? How did you feel during the interaction?
• Think back to a moment of happiness you experienced recently. Relive the sensations, thoughts, and emotions associated with it.
• Think about the place where you feel most at peace. What makes it special to you?
• Recall a time when you were worrying about something in the future. How did it affect your present moment and what would you have done differently?

Creativity Prompts

These are some journal prompts that can spark creativity :

• Write a letter to your favorite fictional character, describing your life to them.
• Make a list of questions you would like to ask a future version of yourself.
• Think about your favorite word or phrase. Explain why you love it.
• Choose a random object from your surroundings. What qualities do you have in common with it?
• Make a list of ten unusual ways to use a common household item. Get creative and think outside the box.
• Write a conversation between two inanimate objects, giving them personalities and voices.
• Invent a gadget that would make your life more efficient or interesting.
• Choose a word from a foreign language that doesn't have a direct English translation. Describe the last time you encountered or experienced it.
• Imagine you get the chance to be any animal for a day. Which animal would you pick and what would you do?
• Invent a new holiday and outline the traditions, celebrations, and rituals associated with it, based on your values.
• If you have a time machine and you can go anywhere in the past or future, where would you go and what would you do there?

These are some strategies that can help you come up with your own journal prompts:

• Decide your goals: First, consider what your goal of journaling is and then work backwards to find ways to achieve that goal, says Dr. Romanoff. For instance, she says gratitude , relationships, learning, self-growth, or creativity are goals that you might want to pursue.
• Find prompts that align with your goals: Write down a few prompts that resonate with you and align with your current goals, interests, or areas of focus. You can add more or tweak them as you go along.
• Mix and match different prompts: Feel free to mix and match prompts from different sources or create your own variations. Experiment with different types of prompts to keep your journaling practice engaging and varied.
• Build on existing prompts: If a prompt leads you to new insights or questions, consider exploring those ideas in subsequent journal entries. You can use your initial response as a springboard for deeper exploration.

Journaling can be a form of self-care , a way to connect with yourself, or a creative exercise. 

If you enjoy journaling, having prompts can help guide your thoughts and focus your attention in a specific direction. Having a new journal prompt to work on every time you’re in the mood to journal can be exciting, comforting, and even a little scary. Just think of each prompt as an opportunity to learn something new about yourself.

Pena‐Silva RA, Velasco‐Castro JM, Matsingos C, Jaramillo‐Rincon SX. Journaling as an effective tool to promote metacognition and enhance study methods in a pharmacology course, during and after the pandemic . FASEB J . 2022;36(Suppl 1):10.1096/fasebj.2022.36.S1.R4840. doi:10.1096/fasebj.2022.36.S1.R4840

Drigas AS, Papoutsi C. A new layered model on emotional intelligence . Behav Sci (Basel) . 2018;8(5):45. doi:10.3390/bs8050045

Crego A, Yela JR, Gómez-Martínez MÁ, Riesco-Matías P, Petisco-Rodríguez C. Relationships between mindfulness, purpose in life, happiness, anxiety, and depression: testing a mediation model in a sample of women . Int J Environ Res Public Health . 2021;18(3):925. doi:10.3390/ijerph18030925

By Sanjana Gupta Sanjana is a health writer and editor. Her work spans various health-related topics, including mental health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

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365 Creative Writing Prompts

Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to help inspire you to write every single day! Use them for journaling, story starters, poetry, and more!

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If you want to become a better writer, the best thing you can do is practice writing every single day. Writing prompts are useful because we know sometimes it can be hard to think of what to write about!

To help you brainstorm, we put together this list of 365 creative writing prompts to give you something to write about daily.

Want to Download these prompts?  I am super excited to announce due to popular demand we now have an ad-free printable version of this list of writing prompts available for just $5. The  printable version  includes a PDF as a list AND print-ready prompt cards. {And all the design source files you could ever need to customize any way you would like!}

Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire:

Whether you write short stories, poems, or like to keep a journal – these will stretch your imagination and give you some ideas for topics to write about!

1. Outside the Window : What’s the weather outside your window doing right now? If that’s not inspiring, what’s the weather like somewhere you wish you could be?

2. The Unrequited love poem: How do you feel when you love someone who does not love you back?

3. The Vessel: Write about a ship or other vehicle that can take you somewhere different from where you are now.

4. Dancing: Who’s dancing and why are they tapping those toes?

5. Food: What’s for breakfast? Dinner? Lunch? Or maybe you could write a poem about that time you met a friend at a cafe.

6. Eye Contact: Write about two people seeing each other for the first time.

7. The Rocket-ship: Write about a rocket-ship on its way to the moon or a distant galaxy far, far, away.

8. Dream-catcher : Write something inspired by a recent dream you had.

9. Animals: Choose an animal. Write about it!

10. Friendship: Write about being friends with someone.

11. Dragon : Envision a dragon. Do you battle him? Or is the dragon friendly? Use descriptive language.

12. Greeting : Write a story or poem that starts with the word “hello” or another greeting.

13. The Letter: Write a poem or story using words from a famous letter or inspired by a letter someone sent you.

14. The Found Poem : Read a book and circle some words on a page. Use those words to craft a poem. Alternatively, you can cut out words and phrases from magazines.

15. Eavesdropper : Create a poem, short story, or journal entry about a conversation you’ve overheard.

16. Addict: Everyone’s addicted to something in some shape or form. What are things you can’t go without?

17. Dictionary Definition : Open up a dictionary to a random word. Define what that word means to you.

18. Cleaning: Hey, even writers and creative artists have to do housework sometimes. Write about doing laundry, dishes, and other cleaning activities.

19. Great Minds: Write  about someone you admire and you thought to have had a beautiful mind.

20. Missed Connections: If you go to Craigslist, there is a “Missed Connections” section where you can find some interesting storylines to inspire your writing.

21. Foreclosure : Write a poem or short story about someone who has lost or is about to lose their home.

22. Smoke, Fog, and Haze: Write about not being able to see ahead of you.

23. Sugar: Write something so sweet, it makes your teeth hurt.

24. Numbers:  Write a poem or journal entry about numbers that have special meaning to you.

25. Dread: Write about doing something you don’t want to do.

26. Fear: What scares you a little? What do you feel when scared? How do you react?

27. Closed Doors: What’s behind the door? Why is it closed?

28. Shadow: Imagine you are someone’s shadow for a day.

29. Good Vibes: What makes you smile? What makes you happy?

30. Shopping:  Write about your shopping wishlist and how you like to spend money.

31. The Professor: Write about a teacher that has influenced you.

32. Rewrite : Take any poem or short story you enjoy. Rewrite it in your own words.

33. Jewelry: Write about a piece of jewelry. Who does it belong to?

34. Sounds : Sit outside for about an hour. Write down the sounds you hear.

35. War and Peace: Write about a recent conflict that you dealt with in your life.

36. Frame It: Write a poem or some phrases that would make for good wall art in your home.

37. Puzzle: Write about putting together the pieces of puzzles.

38. Fire-starters: Write about building a fire.

39. Coffee & Tea: Surely you drink one or the other or know someone who does- write about it!

40. Car Keys: Write about someone getting their driver’s license for the first time.

41. What You Don’t Know: Write about a secret you’ve kept from someone else or how you feel when you know someone is keeping a secret from you.

42. Warehouse : Write about being inside an old abandoned warehouse.

43. The Sound of Silence: Write about staying quiet when you feel like shouting.

44. Insult: Write about being insulted. How do you feel? Why do you think the other person insulted you?

45. Mirror, Mirror: What if you mirror started talking to you? What might the mirror say?

46. Dirty: Write a poem about getting covered in mud.

47. Light Switch : Write about coming out of the dark and seeing the light.

48. The Stars : Take inspiration from a night sky. Or, write about a time when “the stars aligned” in your horoscope.

49. Joke Poem : What did the wall say to the other wall? Meet you at the corner! Write something inspired by a favorite joke.

50. Just Say No : Write about the power you felt when you told someone no.

51: Sunrise/Sunset : The sun comes up, the sun goes down. It goes round and round. Write something inspiring about the sunrise or sunset.

52. Memory Lane : What does Memory Lane look like? How do you get there?

53. Tear-Jerker : Watch a movie that makes you cry. Write about that scene in the movie.

54. Dear Diary: Write a poem or short story about a diary entry you’ve read or imagined.

55. Holding Hands : The first time you held someone’s hand.

56. Photograph : Write a story or journal entry influenced by a photograph you see online or in a magazine.

57. Alarm Clock: Write about waking up.

58. Darkness: Write a poem or journal entry inspired by what you can’t see.

59. Refreshed: Write a poem about a time you really felt refreshed and renewed. Maybe it was a dip into a pool on a hot summer day, a drink of lemonade, or other situation that helped you relax and start again.

60. Handle With Care : Write about a very fragile or delicate object.

61. Drama: Write about a time when you got stuck in between two parties fighting with each other.

62. Slip Up: Write about making mistakes.

63. Spice: Write about flavors and tastes or a favorite spice of yours.

64. Sing a New Song: Take a popular song off the radio and rewrite it as a poem in your own words.

65. Telephone: Write about a phone call you recently received.

66. Name: Write a poem or short story using your name in some way or form.

67. Dollhouse: Write a poem or short story from the viewpoint of someone living in a doll house.

68. Random Wikipedia Article : Go to Wikipedia and click on Random Article . Write about whatever the page you get.

69. Silly Sports: Write about an extreme or silly sport. If none inspire you, make up the rules for your own game.

70. Recipe : Write about a recipe for something abstract, such as a feeling.

71. Famous Artwork: Choose a famous painting and write about it.

72. Where That Place Used to Be : Think of a place you went to when you were younger but it now no longer there or is something else. Capture your feelings about this in your writing.

73. Last Person You Talked to: Write a quick little poem or story about the last person you spoke with.

74. Caught Red-Handed: Write about being caught doing something embarrassing.

75. Interview: Write a list of questions you have for someone you would like to interview, real or fictional.

76. Missing You: Write about someone you miss dearly.

77. Geography: Pick a state or country you’ve never visited. Write about why you would or would not like to visit that place.

78. Random Song: Turn on the radio, use the shuffle feature on your music collection or your favorite streaming music service. Write something inspired by the first song you hear.

79. Hero: Write a tribute to someone you regard as a hero.

80. Ode to Strangers: Go people watching and write an ode to a stranger you see on the street.

81. Advertisement: Advertisements are everywhere, aren’t they? Write using the slogan or line from an ad.

82. Book Inspired: Think of your favorite book. Now write a poem that sums up the entire story in 10 lines.

83. Magic : Imagine you have a touch of magic, and can make impossible things happen. What would you do?

84. Fanciest Pen: Get out your favorite pen, pencils, or even colored markers and write using them!

85. A Day in the Life: Write about your daily habits and routine.

86. Your Muse: Write about your muse – what do they look like? What does your muse do to inspire you?

87. Convenience Store : Write about an experience you’ve had at a gas station or convenience store.

88. Natural Wonders of the World: Choose one of the natural wonders of the world. Write about it.

89. Status Update: Write a poem using the words from your latest status update or a friend’s status update. If you don’t use sites like Facebook or Twitter, you can often search online for some funny ones to use as inspiration.

90. Green Thumb: Write about growing something.

91. Family Heirloom: Write about an object that’s been passed through the generations in your family.

92. Bug Catcher: Write about insects.

93. Potion: Write about a magic potion. What is it made of? What does it do? What is the antidote?

94. Swinging & Sliding: Write something inspired by a playground or treehouse.

95. Adjectives: Make a list of the first 5 adjectives that pop into your head. Use these 5 words in your story, poem, or journal entry.

96. Fairy Tales: Rewrite a fairy tale. Give it a new ending or make it modern or write as a poem.

97. Whispers: Write about someone who has to whisper a secret to someone else.

98. Smile: Write a poem about the things that make you smile.

99. Seasonal: Write about your favorite season.

100.  Normal: What does normal mean to you? Is it good or bad to be normal?

101. Recycle : Take something you’ve written in the past and rewrite it into a completely different piece.

102. Wardrobe: Write about a fashion model or what’s currently in your closet or drawers.

103. Secret Message : Write something with a secret message hidden in between the words. For example, you could make an acrostic poem using the last letters of the word or use secret code words in the poem.

104. Vacation: Write about a vacation you took.

105. Heat: Write about being overheated and sweltering.

106. Spellbinding: Write a magic spell.

107. Collection : Write about collecting something, such as salt shakers, sea shells, or stamps.

108. Taking Chances: Everyone takes a risk at some point in their life. Write about a time when you took a chance and what the result was.

109. Carnival: Write a poem or story or journal entry inspired by a carnival or street fair.

110. Country Mouse: Write about someone who grew up in the country visiting the city for the first time.

111: Questions: Write about questions you have for the universe. Optional: include an answer key.

112. Rushing: Write about moving quickly and doing things fast.

113. Staircase : Use a photo of a staircase or the stairs in your home or a building you love to inspire you.

114. Neighbors: Make up a story or poem about your next door neighbor.

115. Black and Blue: Write about a time you’ve been physically hurt.

116. All Saints: Choose a saint and create a poem about his or her life.

117. Beach Inspired: What’s not to write about the beach?

118. Shoes: What kind of shoes do you wear? Where do they lead your feet?

119. The Ex: Write a poem to someone who is estranged from you.

120. My Point of View: Write in the first person point of view.

121. Stray Animal: Think of the life of a stray cat or dog and write about that.

122. Stop and Stare : Create a poem or story about something you could watch forever.

123. Your Bed: Describe where you sleep each night.

124. Fireworks : Do they inspire you or do you not like the noise and commotion? Write about it.

125. Frozen: Write about a moment in your life you wish you could freeze and preserve.

126. Alone : Do you like to be alone or do you like having company?

127. Know-it-all: Write about something you are very knowledgeable about, for example a favorite hobby or passion of yours.

128. The Promise: Write about a promise you’ve made to someone. Did you keep that promise?

129. Commotion: Write about being overstimulated by a lot of chaos.

130. Read the News Today : Construct a poem or story using a news headline for your first line.

131. Macro: Write a description of an object close-up.

132. Transportation : Write about taking your favorite (or least-favorite) form of transportation.

133. Gadgets: If you could invent a gadget, what would it do? Are there any gadgets that make your life easier?

134: Bring on the Cheese: Write a tacky love poem that is so cheesy, it belongs on top of a pizza.

135. Ladders: Write a story or poem that uses ladders as a symbol.

136. Bizarre Holiday : There is a bizarre holiday for any date! Look up a holiday for today’s date and create a poem in greeting card fashion or write a short story about the holiday to celebrate.

137. Blog-o-sphere : Visit your favorite blog or your feedreader and craft a story, journal entry, or poem based on the latest blog post you read.

138. Mailbox: Create a poem, short story, or journal entry based on a recent item of mail you’ve received.

139. Sharing : Write about sharing something with someone else.

140. Cactus: Write from the viewpoint of a cactus. What’s it like to live in the desert or have a prickly personality?

141. It’s a Sign : Have you seen any interesting road signs lately?

142. Furniture: Write about a piece of furniture in your home.

143. Failure: Write about a time you failed at something. Did you try again or give up completely?

144. Mystical Creatures: Angels or other mystical creatures – use them as inspiration.

145. Flying: Write about having wings and what you would do.

146. Clear and Transparent: Write a poem about being able to see-through something.

147. Break the Silence : Record yourself speaking, then write down what you spoke and revise into a short story or poem.

148. Beat: Listen to music with a strong rhythm or listen to drum loops. Write something that goes along with the beat you feel and hear.

149. Color Palette: Search online for color palettes and be inspired to write by one you resonate with.

150. Magazine: Randomly flip to a page in a magazine and write using the first few words you see as an opening line.

151. The Grass is Greener : Write about switching the place with someone or going to where it seems the “grass is greener”.

152. Mind & Body: Write something that would motivate others to workout and exercise.

153. Shaping Up : Write something that makes a shape on the page…ie: a circle, a heart, a square, etc.

154. Twenty-One: Write about your 21st birthday.

155. Aromatherapy: Write about scents you just absolutely love.

156. Swish, Buzz, Pop : Create a poem that uses Onomatopoeia .

157. What Time is It? Write about the time of day it is right now. What are people doing? What do you usually do at this time each day?

158. Party Animal: Have you ever gone to a party you didn’t want to leave? Or do you hate parties? Write about it!

159: Miss Manners : Use the words “please” and “thank you” in your writing.

160. Cliche: Choose a common cliche, then write something that says the same thing but without using the catch phrase.

161. Eco-friendly : Write about going green or an environmental concern you have.

162. Missing You: Write about someone you miss.

163. Set it Free: Think of a time when you had to let someone or something go to be free…did they come back?

164: Left Out : Write about a time when you’ve felt left out or you’ve noticed someone else feeling as if they didn’t belong.

165. Suitcase: Write about packing for a trip or unpacking from when you arrive home.

166. Fantasy : Write about fairies, gnomes, elves, or other mythical creatures.

167. Give and Receive : Write about giving and receiving.

168. Baker’s Dozen: Imagine the scents and sights of a bakery and write.

169. Treehouse: Write about your own secret treehouse hideaway.

170.  Risk: Write about taking a gamble on something.

171. Acrostic : Choose a word and write an acrostic poem where every line starts with a letter from the word.

172. Crossword Puzzle: Open up the newspaper or find a crossword puzzle online and choose one of the clues to use as inspiration for your writing.

173. Silver Lining : Write about the good that happens in a bad situation.

174. Gloves: Write about a pair of gloves – what kind of gloves are they? Who wears them and why?

175. All that Glitters: Write about a shiny object.

176. Jealousy: Write with a theme of envy and jealousy.

Want to Download these prompts?  I am super excited to announce due to popular demand we now have an ad-free printable version of this list of writing prompts available for just $5. The  printable version  includes a PDF as a list AND print-ready prompt cards. {And all the design source files you could ever need to customize any way you would like!}

177. How Does Your Garden Grow? Write about a flower that grows in an unusual place.

178. Jury Duty : Write a short story or poem that takes place in a courtroom.

179. Gifts: Write about a gift you have given or received.

180. Running: Write about running away from someone or something.

181. Discovery: Think of something you’ve recently discovered and use it as inspiration.

182. Complain:  Write about your complaints about something.

183. Gratitude: Write a poem or journal entry that is all about things you are thankful for.

184. Chemistry: Choose an element and write a poem or story that uses that word in one of the lines.

185. Applause: Write about giving someone a standing ovation.

186. Old Endings Into New Beginnings:  Take an old poem, story, or journal entry of yours and use the last line and make it the first line of your writing today.

187. Longing: Write  about something you very much want to do.

188. I Am: Write a motivational poem or journal entry about positive traits that make you who you are.

189. Rainbow : What is at the end of a rainbow? Or, take a cue from Kermit the Frog, and ask yourself, why are there so many songs about rainbows?

190. Museum: Take some time to visit a nearby museum with your journal. Write about one of the pieces that speaks to you.

191. Cartoon: Think of your favorite cartoon or comic. Write a poem or story that takes place in that setting.

192. Copycat: Borrow a line from a famous public domain poem to craft your own.

193. From the Roof-tops:  Imagine you could stand on a rooftop and broadcast a message to everyone below – what would you say?

194. Time Travel: If there was a time period you could visit for a day, where would you go? Write about traveling back in time to that day.

195. Changing Places: Imagine living the day as someone else.

196. Neighborhood: Write about your favorite place in your neighborhood to visit and hang out at.

197. Pirates: Write about a pirate ship.

198. Interview : Write based on a recent interview you’ve read or seen on TV or heard on the radio.

199.  Hiding Spaces : Write about places you like to hide things at. What was a favorite hiding spot for you as a child playing hide-and-seek?

200. Extreme Makeover: Imagine how life might be different if you could change your hair color or clothing into something completely opposite from your current style.

201. Empathy: Write about your feelings of empathy or compassion for another person.

202. Opposites: Write a poem or story that ties in together two opposites.

203. Boredom: Write about being bored or make a list of different ways to entertain yourself.

204. Strength : Think of a time when you’ve been physically or emotionally strong and use that as inspiration.

205. Hunger: Write from the perspective of someone with no money to buy food.

206. Greed: Write about someone who always wants more – whether it be money, power, etc. etc.

207. Volcano: Write about an eruption of a volcano.

208. Video Inspiration : Go to Vimeo.com or YouTube.com and watch one of the videos featured on the homepage. Write something based on what you watch.

209. Sneeze: Write about things that make you sneeze.

210. Footsteps on the Moon:  Write about the possibility of life in outer-space.

211: Star-crossed: Write a short modern version of the story of Romeo and Juliet or think of real-life examples of lovers who are not allowed to be together to use as inspiration for your writing.

212. Font-tastic: Choose a unique font and type out a poem, story or journal entry using that font.

213. Schedule: Take a look at your calendar and use the schedule for inspiration in writing.

214. Grandparents: Write about a moment in your grandparent’s life.

215. Collage: Go through a magazine and cut out words that grab your attention. Use these words to construct a poem or as a story starter or inspiration for your journal.

216. Oh so Lonely: Write a poem about what you do when you are alone – do you feel lonely or do you enjoy your own company?

217. Waterfall: Think of a waterfall you’ve seen in person or spend some time browsing photos of waterfalls online. Write about the movement, flow, and energy.

218. First Kiss: Write about your first kiss.

219. So Ironic: Write about an ironic situation you’ve been in throughout your life.

220. Limerick: Write a limerick today.

221. Grocery Shopping: Write about an experience at the grocery store.

222. Fashion : Go through a fashion magazine or browse fashion websites online and write about a style you love.

223. So Close: Write about coming close to reaching a goal.

224. Drinks on Me: Write a poem or short story that takes place at a bar.

225. Online Friends: Write an ode to someone online you’ve met and become friends with.

226. Admiration: Is there someone you admire? Write about those feelings.

227. Trash Day: Write from the perspective of a garbage collector.

228. Mailbox: Open your mailbox and write something inspired by one of the pieces of mail you received.

229. Fresh & Clean: Write about how you feel after you take a shower.

230. Energized: Write about how you feel when you’re either at a high or low energy level for the day.

231. Rhyme & No Reason: Make up a silly rhyming poem using made up words.

232. Tech Support: Use computers or a conversation with tech support you’ve had as inspiration.

233. Hotel: Write from the perspective of someone who works at a hotel or staying at a hotel.

234. Underwater: Write about sea creatures and under water life. What’s under the surface of the ocean? What adventures might be waiting?

235. Breathing: Take a few minutes to do some deep breathing relaxation techniques. Once your mind is clear, just write the first few things that you think of.

236. Liar, Liar: Make up a poem or story of complete lies about yourself or someone else.

237. Obituaries: Look at the recent obituaries online or in the newspaper and imagine the life of someone and write about that person.

238. Pocket: Rummage through your pockets and write about what you keep or find in your pockets.

239. Cinquain: Write a cinquain poem, which consists of 5 lines that do not rhyme.

240. Alphabetical: Write a poem that has every letter of the alphabet in it.

241.  Comedy Club: Write something inspired by a comedian.

242. Cheater: Write about someone who is unfaithful.

243. Sestina: Give a try to writing a sestina poem.

244. Fight: Write about witnessing two people get in an argument with each other.

245. Social Network : Visit your favorite Social Networking website (ie: Facebook, Pinterest, Google, Twitter, etc.) and write a about a post you see there.

246. Peaceful: Write about something peaceful and serene.

247. In the Clouds: Go cloud watching for the day and write about what you imagine in the clouds.

248. At the Park: Take some time to sit on a park bench and write about the sights, scenes, and senses and emotions you experience.

249. Sonnet: Write a sonnet today.

250. Should, Would, And Could: Write a poem or story using the words should, would, and could.

251. How to: Write directions on how to do something.

252. Alliteration: Use alliteration in your poem or in a sentence in a story.

253. Poker Face: Write about playing a card game.

254. Timer: Set a timer for 5 minutes and just write. Don’t worry about it making sense or being perfect.

255. Dance: Write about a dancer or a time you remember dancing.

256. Write for a Cause: Write a poem or essay that raises awareness for a cause you support.

257. Magic : Write about a magician or magic trick.

258. Out of the Box: Imagine finding a box. Write about opening it and what’s inside.

259. Under the Influence: What is something has impacted you positively in your life?

260. Forgotten Toy : Write from the perspective a forgotten or lost toy.

261. Rocks and Gems: Write about a rock or gemstone meaning.

262. Remote Control: Imagine you can fast forward and rewind your life with a remote control.

263. Symbolism: Think of objects, animals, etc. that have symbolic meaning to you. Write about it.

264. Light at the End of the Tunnel: Write about a time when you saw hope when it seemed like a hopeless situation.

265. Smoke and Fire : “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Use this saying as inspiration to write!

266. Railroad: Write about a train and its cargo or passengers.

267. Clipboard: Write about words you imagine on an office clipboard.

268. Shipwrecked: Write about being stranded somewhere – an island, a bus stop, etc.

269. Quotable: Use a popular quote from a speaker and use it as inspiration for your writing.

270. Mind   Map it Out: Create a mind map of words, phrases, and ideas that pop into your head or spend some time browsing the many mind maps online. Write a poem, story, or journal entry inspired by the mind map.

271. Patterns : Write about repeating patterns that occur in life.

272. Scrapbook : Write about finding a scrapbook and the memories it contains.

273. Cure: Write about finding a cure for an illness.

274. Email Subject Lines: Read your email today and look for subject lines that may be good starters for writing inspiration.

275. Wishful Thinking: Write about a wish you have.

276. Doodle : Spend some time today doodling for about 5-10 minutes. Write about the thoughts you had while doodling or create something inspired by your finished doodle.

277. Chalkboard: Imagine you are in a classroom. What does it say on the chalkboard?

278. Sticky: Imagine a situation that’s very sticky, maybe even covered in maple syrup, tape or glue. Write about it!

279. Flashlight : Imagine going somewhere very dark with only a flashlight to guide you.

280. A Far Away Place : Envision yourself traveling to a fictional place, what do you experience in your imaginary journey?

281. On the Farm : Write about being in a country or rural setting.

282. Promise to Yourself: Write about a promise you want to make to yourself and keep.

283. Brick Wall : Write a poem that is about a brick wall – whether literal or figurative.

284. Making a Choice: Write about a time when you had to make a difficult choice.

285.  Repeat: Write about a time when you’ve had to repeat yourself or a time when it felt like no one was listening.

286. Outcast : Write about someone who is not accepted by their peers. (for example, the Ugly Ducking)

287. Scary Monsters: Write about a scary (or not-so-scary) monster in your closet or under the bed.

288. Sacrifice: Write about something you’ve sacrificed doing to do something else or help another person.

289. Imperfection: Create a poem that highlights the beauty in being flawed.

290. Birthday Poem: Write a poem inspired by birthdays.

291. Title First : Make a list of potential poem or story titles and choose one to write from.

292. Job Interview : Write about going on a job interview.

293. Get Well : Write a poem that will help someone who is sick feel better quick!

294. Lost in the Crowd: Write about feeling lost in the crowd.

295. Apple a Day: Write about a health topic that interests you.

296. Cravings: Write about craving something.

297. Phobia: Research some common phobias, choose one, and write about it.

298. In the Moment: Write about living in the present moment.

299. Concrete : Write about walking down a sidewalk and what you see and experience.

300. Battle: Write about an epic battle, whether real, fictional or figurative.

301. This Old House : Write about an old house that is abandoned or being renovated.

302. Clutter: Is there a cluttered spot in your home? Go through some of that clutter today and write about what you find or the process of organizing.

303. Go Fly a Kite: Write about flying a kite.

304. On the TV: Flip to a random TV channel and write about the first thing that comes on – even if it is an infomercial!

305. Fruit: Write an ode to your favorite fruit.

306. Long Distance Love: Write about a couple that is separated by distance.

307. Glasses: Write about a pair of eyeglasses or someone wearing glasses.

308. Robotic : Write about a robot.

309. Cute as a Button: Write about something you think is just adorable.

310. Movie Conversation: Use a memorable conversation from a favorite movie to inspire your writing.

311. Easy-Peasy : Write  about doing something effortlessly.

312. Idiom: Choose from a list of idioms one that speaks to you and create a poem around that saying or phrase. (Ie: It is raining cats and dogs)

313. Playground: Whether it is the swings or the sandbox or the sliding boards, write about your memories of being on a playground.

314. Romance: Write about romantic things partners can do for each other.

315. Rock Star: Imagine you are a famous rock star. Write about the experience.

316. Come to Life: Imagine ordinary objects have come to life. Write about what they do and say.

317. Airplane: Write about meeting someone on an airplane and a conversation you might have.

318. Health & Beauty: Take some time to peruse your medicine cabinet or the health and beauty aisles at a local store. Write a poem, short story, or journal entry inspired by a product label.

319. Determination: Write about not giving up.

320. Instrumental Inspiration: Listen to some instrumental music and write a poem that matches the mood, beat, and style of the music.

321. Wait Your Turn: Write about having to wait in line.

322. Personality Type : Do you know your personality type? (There are many free quizzes online) – write about what type of personality traits you have.

323. Decade: Choose a favorite decade and write about it. (IE: 1980’s or 1950’s for example)

324. I Believe: Write your personal credo of things you believe in.

325. Lost and Found: Write about a lost object.

326. Say it: Write a poem or story that uses dialogue between two people.

327. The Unsent Letter: Write about a letter that never made it to its recipient.

328. The Windows of the Soul: Write a poem about the story that is told through someone’s eyes.

329. Trial and Error: Write about something you learned the hard way.

330. Escape : Write about where you like to go to escape from it all.

331. What’s Cooking: Write something inspired a favorite food or recipe.

332. Records : Go through your file box and pull out old receipts or records…write something inspired by what you find!

333. Banking: Write about visiting the bank.

334. Sweet Talk: Write about trying to convince someone of something.

335. Serendipity: Write about something that happened by chance in a positive way.

336. Distractions: Write about how it feels when you can’t focus.

337. Corporation: Write about big business.

338. Word of the Day: Go to a dictionary website that has a word of the day and use it in a poem, story or journal entry you write.

339. Pick Me Up:  What do you do when you need a pick me up?

340. Unfinished: Write about a project you started but never completed.

341. Forgiveness: Write about a time when someone forgave you or you forgave someone.

342. Weakness: Write about your greatest weakness.

343. Starting: Write about starting a project.

344. Mechanical: Think of gears, moving parts, machines.

345. Random Act of Kindness : Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone or someone has done for you, no matter how small or insignificant it may have seemed.

346. Underground: Imagine living in a home underground and use that as inspiration for writing.

347. Classic Rock: Pick a classic rock love ballad and rewrite it into a story or poem with a similar theme.

348. Night Owl : Write about staying up late at night.

349. Magnetic : Write about attraction to something or someone.

350. Teamwork: Write about working with a team towards a common goal.

351. Roller-coaster : Write about the ups and downs in life.

352. Motivational Poster: Look at some motivational posters online and write a poem or journal entry inspired by your favorite one.

353. Games: Write about the games people play – figuratively or literally.

354. Turning Point: Write about a point in life where things turned for the better or worse.

355. Spellbound: Write about a witch’s spell.

356. Anniversary: Write about the anniversary of a special date.

357. Gamble:  Be inspired by a casino or lottery ticket.

358. Picnic: Write about going on a picnic.

359. Garage: Write about some random item you might find in a garage.

360. Review: Review your week, month, or year in a journal entry or poem format.

361. Detective: Write about a detective searching for clues or solving a mystery.

362. Camera: Take your camera for a walk and write based on one of the photographs you take.

363. Visiting : Write about visiting a family member or friend.

364. Trust: Write about putting trust in someone.

365. Congratulations : Did you write a poem, short story, or journal entry every day for a whole year? Write about what you’ve learned and celebrate your achievement!

We hope you enjoy these creative writing prompts! And of course, if you write anything using these prompts, we’d love to know about it! Tell us how you’ll use these everyday creative writing prompts in the comments section below!

And of course, if you’d like the printable ad-free version of these prompts to reference again and again or to use in your classroom, you can find them at our Etsy shop !

Chelle Stein wrote her first embarrassingly bad novel at the age of 14 and hasn't stopped writing since. As the founder of ThinkWritten, she enjoys encouraging writers and creatives of all types.

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15 Types of Creative Journaling Plus Benefits and Techniques

Discover our guide with the best prompts for creative journaling and become a seasoned writer in no time!

All writers struggle from time to time with writer’s block or feeling stuck in a rut. When your creative spark doesn’t ignite, it can be frustrating; sometimes  stream of consciousness journaling can help you break through this wall. Creative journaling is one of my favorite low-stress solutions when I’m feeling uninspired. It comes in all forms, can help you focus or brainstorm, and feels good. Let’s explore how it works.

What is a Creative Journaling?

1. traditional written journal, 2. freeform journaling, 3. a poetry journal, 4. mixed scrapbook journaling, 5. travel journaling, 6. junk journaling, 7. a journal with prompts, 8. sketch or art journaling, 9. mind mapping, 10. bullet journaling, 11. dream journaling, 12. morning journal, 13. a reading journal, 14. food journal, 15. draft journal, 16. affirmation journal, what are some examples of creative journaling, can creative journaling help me organize, what are some creative exercises i can do in my journal.

Creative journaling is a way of getting your thoughts onto the page – and not necessarily with the written word, either! It helps encourage imagination and creative thinking as you combine mediums or try new types of prose and poetry to express thoughts. The result is a more flexible approach to writing and often some great ideas for both nonfiction and fiction approaches in your work.

“What?” you might be thinking, “How is a traditional journal creative? I already know how those work.” The goal is to use a traditional journal to unlock new thoughts. Open up a notebook, and you are confronted with very normal lines to write on. But, with creative journaling, you can find new ways to express thoughts by just getting the words out and seeing what happens. This is a great way to stumble across writing techniques and approaches you would have never thought of before, especially for forms like fiction or creative nonfiction.

In freeform journaling, write freely without sticking to the traditional writing rules. Why not skip as many lines as you want between sentences, and write wherever you want on the page? Why not write one section in the first person and the next in the second person? Why not write an entire paragraph in nouns, and the next in verbs, while still trying to convey your meaning?

As you can see, this kind of daily journal is a great way to play around with grammar and explore writing styles you don’t often use. It doesn’t always have to make sense, and it doesn’t have to be printable. The goal is to let creativity take over and write whatever comes to mind.

Even if you don’t usually try poetry, a poetry journal can be one of the powerful creative journaling ideas that jumpstart your writing. Noting down poems and playing with writing techniques such as metaphor, rhyme, and simile can inspire creative thinking and generate new ideas for your writing.  

Also called a mixed media journal, this DIY journaling style allows you to be creative. While a traditional scrapbook focuses on pasting in complementary photos, shapes, and artwork, a mixed media version is much more freeform. You can write, draw, or paste in shapes and photos as you desire. Break out the crayons and color up a page! Write a paragraph, then doodle your thoughts about that paragraph around it.

Look for ways to combine thoughts with colors and images that you identify with those thoughts, then find suitable materials for the job. Maybe even grab a pack of stickers to use. Later on, when you are writing more traditionally, consider how references to colors or imagery could help strengthen your writing.

Travel journaling can be considered a form of diary writing; it is about recording the new places you visit, the new people you meet, and the new experiences you have. You don’t have to write in any particular form; remember to be descriptive and record what happened so you can remember it clearly. This will improve your descriptive writing and help you reference your experiences for later inspiration.

Junk journaling is travel-related scrapbooking where you paste actual mementos of your experiences. It’s focused on things that you would otherwise throw away after use. That could include train tickets, subway passports from a different city, wrappers from the food you ate on an airplane, pieces of a map you used, etc.

It’s a way to improve your memory and create a special journal to share with others. This type of journaling doesn’t require travel, either. Junk journaling can record actual receipts you collected or candy wrappers from a particular snack you had. 

Create a daily journal with writing prompts for each session to give you a starting place. There are many  journals prompts like this, with many different themes, so you can customize the prompts for what you had in mind. Here’s an affordable option on Amazon for generic prompts to give you an idea. Writing prompts are helpful because they give you a starting place, and you don’t have to develop a subject independently. 

This type of journaling uses black sketchbooks and lets you choose what to put on the canvas. That opens a lot of doors for creative sketching and drawing. Again, even if you aren’t that type of artist, you can still find a lot of value in this journaling method. Sketching (no matter how good or bad you are) can unveil hidden possibilities in the world around you.

No matter how absently, drawing can help you focus your thoughts and create new realizations. Journaling has been found to offer many multiple benefits for creatives. If you are an artist, check out our article on art journaling for the complete lowdown. If not, have fun with lettering and doodles as you go.

Mind mapping is a digital option that’s closely related to brainstorming. Here, you can use an app to create and connect thought bubbles in various ways. The first benefit is that you don’t need to write or type that much to start mind mapping: Grab a good app, like the popular Xmind .

The second benefit is that you can start listing random thoughts or ideas that you’re having, in no particular order, then connect and categorize them later. It’s a good option for people who like to start with many different thoughts and find ways to link them together.

Bullet journaling means using bullet points when you journal. It’s a popular recommendation for people working on to-do lists and checklists they want to tackle. But bullet points can be used creatively by listing thoughts and feelings or creating lists of story ideas – you can write random ideas, even if they’re only a word or two.

The draw behind creative bullet journaling is that not every bullet has to be useful or meaningful. It can be easy to get words out of your head and onto a list so you can judge which are helpful later on. This may also be a handy precursor to creating an outline.

The rules for this journal are simple: Jot down everything you remember from your dreams. Any fragments qualify; it doesn’t matter how much sense they make. It’s usually best to do this early in the morning before you forget your dreams. Sometimes you can find the seed of a good idea from your dreams when you look at them later. Or you may discover a different option to describe something or a scenario that will work perfectly for your characters. It’s a little like reaching your hand into a grab bag.

A morning journal is an alternative or type of journaling you can combine with a dream journal. When you write in a morning journal, you jot down your stream-of-consciousness thoughts. They could be random worries about the day, hopeful plans, what you want for breakfast, how much you wish you could go back to sleep…just whatever you are thinking and feeling.

A morning journal like this can help you uncover new ideas, and it’s a common suggestion for all kinds of artists. It’s also a great substitute if you don’t remember any dreams from the night before but still need to journal.

As the name suggests, a reading journal is where you take notes on the novels you are currently reading. You can use these journals to keep track of more complex novels and make important notes to keep everything straight. That’s especially useful if you don’t have much time to read.

You can also use a reading journal to critique the novels you read. By critiquing another work, you often discover ways to improve your writing and new techniques you can use. Or, if you don’t want to get so technical, you can describe your feelings and thoughts while reading. Studying your reactions as a reader is also a great way to improve as a writer.

For this kind of creative journal, focus on describing a meal you had or the food you are eating. Use multiple senses beyond taste, and find the right words to describe what you like or dislike. Eating can be a very intense experience, and practicing it can help you improve the way you communicate sensory information. Plus, you may find you like being a food blogger!

This is a more significant journal for drafts of your writing work. Use it to create chapter openings, start writing critical essays, and experiment with upcoming player dialogue. Many writers prefer making drafts this way because there is less pressure to get it “just right.” Also, putting pen to paper may help open up more creativity than putting hands to keyboard for some journalers. Also, you don’t have to tote around a laptop to work on your drafts, so it’s a bit more flexible. Just getting a challenging section started can be a big help.

An affirmation journal is designed for positive thoughts – which can be immensely helpful for many writers who feel depressed or unfortunate. Use it to record when you’ve reached goals and empowering statements like, “I like writing a lot,” and “I completed an entire draft this month.” This can help create positive feedback in your mind that’s very healthy, emotionally, and as a creator.

FAQs on Creative Journaling

Inspiration for creative journaling can come from many places and creative people, so you don’t need to stop at this list. For example, you may want to look at the University of British Columbia’s guide  and how students there have found success in creative journaling. 

Keep in mind some types of creative journaling can be intensely practical. Some creative journaling types focus on fitness, budgeting, or recipes. These aren’t always as inspiring for writing, but they help you get organized. The popularity of gratitude journaling has skyrocketed in recent years and is known to improve your well-being. 

1. Confine yourself to a single line. That’s all you get to express an idea: How will you do it? 2. Or, you could give yourself a brief time limit: Write everything you want in 5 seconds. Then reflect on what and why you wrote.

Looking for inspiration? Check out our best  quotes about journaling !

Tyler has been published on Huffington Post and Motely Fool. His article and blogs experience includes working for The Content Standard, Mad Mobile, Digital Landing, and Apass Education, among many others.

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12 Of The Best Creative Writing Prompt Journals (On Amazon)

• Post author By Marisa Donnelly
• Post date June 5, 2018
• Categories In Writing Products , Writing Resources
• 1 Comment on 12 Of The Best Creative Writing Prompt Journals (On Amazon)

From colored pencils to inflatable pool flamingos, colorful containers to invisible pens, there is no shortage of products you can find on Amazon. As an avid Prime user and hardcore fan of the two-day, hassle free shipping, I more often than not find myself scrolling through, looking for something that I want no need in my life. (Because let’s face it, that’s way easier than hauling your booty all the way to the store!)

Over the years I’ve done my fair share of ordering products online (from bathroom to housewares, outdoors to cooking utensils, etc.) but as both a writer and editor, I have plenty of experience with the best writing and office products section on the site.

And in an effort to not only organize myself, but to help browse through (in an organized fashion) some of the best writing tools all in one place, here is a list of my favorite creative writing prompt journals.

Whether you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or just looking for a refresher, there is something for you.

1. The ‘Roam From Home’ Travel-Inspired Free Writing Journal

I love this journal because, as both a writer and travel-lover, I can combine both passions in one place. The interior is 150 pages of travel-related quotes, ideas, prompts and pictures meant to inspire. Whether or not you’ve actually been to the place, you’re inspired to write as if you have, and let the words flow.

I’m also a big fan of anything visual, so this journal works well to keep my interest, as well as gives me wanderlust for new places and adventures!

2. The ‘sparkle’ Daily Guided Art/Writing Journal

3. This Creative Kickstarter Journal

What I love about This Creative Kickstarter Journal is the fact that it’s just so visual. As someone drawn to color, I love the bright pages, bold designs, and art that’s sprinkled throughout.

Something I’ve found real value in when it comes to writing, is the tool of experimenting with ekphrastic writing , which is, in essence, drawing inspiration from visual content such as pictures, photographs, paintings, etc. This journal really implements that and pushes your creative boundaries in a fun way. A great pick!

4. A Year of Creative Writing Prompts

What I appreciate the most about this journal is that it pushes you to write and reflect multiple times a day. Honestly, I often fall into the habit of writing when it’s convenient and then not going back to my drafts until the next time it’s convenient…thus missing out on really challenging myself or getting drafts completed in a more efficient amount of time.

This journal incorporates morning, mid-day and evening prompts (3 per day for a year!) which will really force you to engage, create, and feel more confident. I’d recommend this to anyone looking for that extra push, or wanting to sharpen their prompted-writing skills.

5. 365 Prompts for 365 Days

The prompts in this journal are really focused on beating writer’s block, meaning they will challenge you to think differently and be slightly less traditional in form, which I have always appreciated. Another strong pick!

6. This Nature Guided Journal

If you’re looking to both be inspired by the natural world and keep yourself on track with deadlines, ideas, and goals, this is a perfect journal for you!

7. Creative Writing Exercises For Dummies

The ‘Dummies’ series of books is actually so fun. I remember leaving through my parents’ books on some topic, thinking, ‘Hey, this is pretty good advice. ‘ Couldn’t tell you what the topic was (maybe cooking? travel?) but I loved the casual, yet super informative tone.

8. This Self-Exploration Journal

A lot of good writing comes from digging within yourself. And whether that is to create effective/believable characters, to learn the inner-workings of a plot, to produce a reliable narrator, etc. it’s important to really know yourself in order to know your writing.

That’s why I love this journal . It’s all about self-exploration and translating that to the page. Focusing on different moods to write in certain directions, I love this as both an inspiration tool and resource.

9. The Beautiful Book OF Songwriting prompts

For those who are musically inclined, this is obviously a great fit. Beyond that, though, this journal is  honestly valuable for any writer. What I love the most about this journal is how it allows you to take a step back and let music/songs/vibes guide your thought process, words, and drafting.  Because music isn’t something I incorporate into my every day, I really appreciated thinking about my writing process in a different way!

There are different types of prompts the journal discusses: word lists, titles that tell a story, inspiring photographs, and settings & situations . These prompts are not only vastly different, but reusable and can help you over and over again, whether you’re writing a song, poem, or gathering story ideas. An awesome (and different!) pick.

10. The 52 Lists: Weekly Inspiration

I am  such  a list person. Seriously, I have a list for every project, multiple lists around the house,  short-term lists, long-term lists, (you get the point.) This journal was a good fit for me because it uses a form I’m comfortable with to help inspire me to write.

The lists are very simple in nature, allowing you to be as laid back or challenged as you’d prefer. There is also plenty of space to write, so that you can jot down ideas and then also convert those ideas to lines in a poem, sentences in a story, etc. For anyone who loves list-making as much as I do, or in general finds the quick-notes less daunting, this is a great choice!

11. 1,000 Character Writing Prompts

Let’s be honest here, one of the most difficult aspects of writing is creating characters, and building those characters, and personifying those characters, and making them believable. For me, I find myself shaping characters that are often either a) very similar to me, or b) the complete opposite of me. Which, by the way, isn’t really effective.

Getting this journal and working through the prompts was so helpful. I was able to see different approaches to building main figures in my stories and how to create them with distinct personalities (that weren’t weird carbon copies of me!). I was challenged by the villain sections because creating an evil figure is more than just has to be just as believable and multi-dimensional – which is hard!

The prompts incorporate different scenes and scenarios, are reusable, and really helped me dive deeper into my stories. I would definitely recommend.

12. Every Day Is Epic: Guided Journal

I’ll be honest, at first I wasn’t a fan of guided journals. When it came to writing, I just wanted space to pour my heart out! But I’m a very visual person, and definitely love having a book I can open and be inspired, simply by the colors, patterns, notes, and other fun add-ins.

That’s how the  Every Day Is Epic guided journal is — fun and busyness on every page! From planner-like notes, to space for doodles, to reflection areas for post-dreams, this journal has it all, and is bound to inspire!

Featured Image Credit: Estee Janssens

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A Guide to Journaling for Writers

by Melissa Donovan | Jun 3, 2021 | Creative Writing | 51 comments

A guide to journal writing.

The world of journaling is fascinating and expansive. There are people who make their own notebooks and fill them with stunning artwork and gorgeous lettering. Others spend months writing in a journal and then burn it when they get to the end, only to start another one. Some people use cheap spiral-bound notebooks for journal writing while others invest in fancy blank books that are filled with upscale paper.

Journals are popular for this reason: they are highly flexible and can be used by a wide variety of people for a number of different purposes.

Almost all journals involve some kind of writing, and most journals are exclusively for writing, so it’s only natural that writers like us have an interest in journaling.

What is a Journal?

A journal is simply a record that is regularly kept. it can be an account of your personal experiences, a record of your thoughts and ideas, or a log of your lists. Yes, some people keep list journals!

Journals are also used for planning and tracking. For example, you might keep a fitness journal to track your diet and exercise. You’ll write down the foods you eat and the workouts you perform each day. The practice of tracking helps you stay mindful of what you’re trying to achieve, so you stay focused. You can then use the information you’ve tracked to evaluate and modify your behavior.

The word  journal  is also sometimes used to refer to notebooks that are used for journaling. These are available in a wide array of sizes, materials, and styles. Journal  is also another word for a periodical, a magazine, or a newspaper.

Benefits of Journaling

Journaling has been shown to have numerous health benefits. According to Psychology Today , research shows that “journaling can increase your physical health. It may boost your immune system, and it can certainly help manage stressful events and experiences, thus decreasing the damage that stress can do to your body.”

From improving cognitive function by promoting clear thinking to increasing self-awareness and problem-solving, the benefits of journaling have been lauded by everyone from doctors to self-help gurus, spiritual advisers, former teenagers, business executives, and a litany of people from all walks of life — some of whom have consistently journaled for most of their lives and others who engage in journal writing periodically throughout their lives.

I’ve never seen anyone say anything bad about journaling. The only exception might be the occasional story in which someone’s privacy was disrespected and the contents of a private journal were revealed to the wrong people. But for the most part, journaling is widely endorsed as healthy and beneficial. If you can develop and maintain the habit, you will likely reap meaningful rewards.

Journaling to Benefit Your Writing

We’re all writers here. Most of the research and benefits of journaling apply to a few specific types of journaling, particularly keeping a tracker, a diary, or a reflective journal . But there’s a host of other things that we, as writers, can do with our journals, and the benefits are vast:

• Use a journal to cultivate a daily writing habit.
• Practice writing in your journal to improve your skills.
• Work out problems in your journal, from finding the perfect word for a line of poetry to figuring out how to get your characters out of a tight spot you’ve written them into.
• Create a tracker in your journal to log your daily writing. Each day, note your word count, the projects you worked on, or time spent writing. Tracking improves productivity (I use this myself when I need to increase my output or when I’m working on a large project, like a book).
• A journal is an excellent tool for project planning. Start by defining the project and setting goals and milestones, and then add a tracker to log your progress. This can help you stay focused on a project so you actually finish it.
• Use your journal as a brain dump or idea bank. Many of us are constantly bombarded by creative ideas that linger in our minds, sometimes distracting us from the work we need to get done. Dump those ideas into a journal and clear space in your brain for whatever you want to focus on. You can always revisit your idea bank to make a withdrawal later, when you need some inspiration.
• Keep a record of your creative process. This can help you refine the way you work, especially if you’re trying to achieve specific goals, like finishing a novel or maintaining a blog. Review your process to see what you can improve the next time around.
• Set up a submission and publication journal. This can help you stay on top of submissions and provide a useful reference so you never forget where you submitted or where your work has been published.

This is just a small sampling of some journaling that you can do to increase your writing productivity, improve your process, and solve problems that writers often face.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out THESE journal ideas .

Getting started with journal writing.

Journal writing is packed with benefits.

State Your Purpose

There’s no right or wrong way to journal. But it’s always a good idea to take a moment to think about how you’re going to use your journal and what you want to accomplish with it, especially before you invest a lot of time, money, or energy into purchasing a notebook, pens, and other journaling supplies. That stuff can distract you from your core purpose, and the whole point is to get some writing done.

Maybe your purpose is to simply let your creativity flow onto the pages without any set guidelines. Or maybe you’ll have a notebook divided into sections with tabs for different aspects of your journal writing. Maybe you’ll keep one journal or maybe you’ll have three or four. Just try to have a general sense of what you’re trying to achieve, whether it’s a creative outlet, a record of important life events, or a place to explore your writing ideas.

Should You Stick to a Schedule?

I have mixed feelings about this one. Most of my best journals have been the result of frequent but unscheduled writing sessions. There’s a fine line between nudging yourself to write in your journal every day and exerting too much pressure on yourself to the point that you freeze up and don’t get anything done. This is why I have a strong dislike for journals with dates printed on the pages. They tend to make people feel guilty for skipping a day (which also results in a blank page), and this often leads to abandoning the journal altogether.

Your journaling schedule (or lack thereof) should be based on your goals (which is why establishing your purpose first is important). If you are using your journal as a tool for creativity, you might not need a schedule. If you’re using it to cultivate daily writing habits, then a schedule is paramount. Schedules are also essential for trackers. And let’s face it, the more you work in your journal, the more you’ll gain from it.

Even if you don’t stick to a rigorous schedule, it’s important to do your journal writing somewhat regularly to reap the most benefits. Frequent journal writing will keep your creativity, ideas, and language flowing, and it will help you build good writing habits. You may only be able to journal on weekends or on certain days of the week. Sticking to a schedule (preferably daily) is the best way, but it’s not always realistic, and it doesn’t work for everyone.

Digital Journaling?

Let’s talk about digital versus a paper journal. Most people think of journals as physical, paper notebooks that you can hold in your hand and write in with a pen. But you can journal on a computer or on your smart phone or any other electronic device.

There are some benefits to digital journaling. First and foremost, you can set it up so that you’re never without your journal by using a cloud service. You might do most of your journaling at home, in a comfy desk chair, but if you need to do some journal writing when you’re away from you desk, you can do it on your phone. Apps like Evernote are ideal for this; you could also simply email your journal supplements to yourself and add them to your main journal later.

Digital also provides a stellar level of flexibility when it comes to editing, inserting, and organizing.

But there’s something to be said about the tactile experience of putting pen to paper when it comes to doing creative work. The experience simply can’t be replicated with a computer or even a stylus and a tablet. Over the years, I’ve encountered countless writers who swear by hand writing in a journal. And they’re not wrong. Writing by hand has numerous benefits , including stress relief, increased creativity, better learning and memory, improved mood, and better sleep.

Plus, I don’t know about you, but I find the act of writing with a pen on paper to be soothing.

Getting a Journal

You can journal in anything from a flimsy notebook that you picked up at the dollar store to a fancy, expensive, hand-crafted journal. Same with pens: you can pick up disposable ballpoints for a few cents apiece or blow a bunch of cash on a fountain pen that you have to save up for.

Journaling supplies are a personal decision. Most of us need to experiment with a few different journaling tools to find what works best. And what works best for you today might not work in a few years.

Having said that, my recommendation is to start simple if you’re getting into journal writing for the first time. I have found that fancy supplies often sit on shelves only to be taken out and admired on occasion, whereas more affordable supplies become workhorses. When you’re using a fancy notebook and an expensive pen, you might feel like you should only use these tools if you’re about to compose a masterpiece, whereas working with affordable materials removes the pressure and allows you to create more freely, and in my experience, free creation always gets the best results.

Some Journal Writing Tips

My number one advice when it comes to journaling is to take all other advice with a light heart and an open mind. Fellow journalists will passionately express what did and did not work for them. Be open to their shared experiences and be willing to try different things, but remember that what works for them might not work for you.

With that said, here are a few tips based on my own experience with journaling. These may or may not work for you, but I encourage you to at least give them a try (aff links):

• Be messy in your journal. If you’re always trying to have perfect handwriting or only capture good ideas, you’ll stifle your creativity. If you need something pristine, set up a second journal for that type of work.
• Start with an omni-journal, a journal in which you write anything and everything. I mean, you might not want to balance your budget it in. But allow yourself to write everything from life events to character sketches to poetry to freewrites.
• Doodle. Whether you use doodling to create interesting lettering or stick figures in the margins to represent your characters, I have found that doodling enhances creativity. If you’re artistic, go ahead and put drawings in your journal (one of my favorite journals was a mix of art and writing).
• If you’re just getting into journaling, I recommend starting with student-grade notebooks. My earliest journals were three-subject spiral-bound notebooks, sized at about nine by six inches. They are still among my favorites .
• Watch out for supply addiction. The world of journaling is fraught with tempting tools and materials, and if you dip your toes into the many journaling communities online, you might find yourself chasing purchases rather than writing.
• Give your journal a home. Keep it in a handy spot. My journal is almost always within reach. You never know when the urge to create will strike, and it’s good to be prepared. If you need privacy, find an appropriate place to stash your journal.
• Get some sidekicks. I like to pick up pocket-sized notebooks that I can keep in various locations, such as my car or purse. If I need to jot something down, I can tear it out and tape it into my main journal later (I love washi tape for this purpose).
• The blank page can be intimidating, and trying to journal on a schedule can inhibit creativity. But here’s the secret: all you have to do is crack open your journal and write a few words, no matter how silly, lame, or nonsensical. Things tend to start flowing once you turn on that faucet!
• If all else fails, remember that journal prompts are your friend!

Most importantly, have fun with your journal. I have found myself stressing out about journaling, worrying about how to set up my journals and how many I should have and what I should write in them. The answer is always to just relax. Do what you can with what you have. Open the journal and just start writing.

Journal Writing

Do all writers keep journals? Of course not. But most of us have kept journals at some point, and journal writing has been instrumental in our development as writers.

Have you ever kept a journal? Do you keep one now? Which journaling tools do you use, and what do you put in your journal? What type of notebook do you use for your journal writing, or do you use a computer? What benefits of journaling have you experienced? Share your thoughts and experiences with journal writing by leaving a comment, and keep writing.

51 Comments

I’ve been journaling my entire life. Looking out right now across my bookcase, one entire shelf is filled with my journals, dating back years.I have different types too. Calendar ones, which just have jotted notes of how we sent the day, recorded for all time, such as “Took the kids to the Ren Faire, had a great time, stopped on the way home for diner at the Great White Inn, Michael told a joke that had us laughing till we couldn’t see straight”

That would be enough to joggle out the memory of a great day. I love those little calendar journals becasue I can look back and see my entire year laid out.

Then I have my thoughts journals. Boy, sometimes those are rough…self-analysis…ouch…go back and read yourself whining about some issue and realize you are still dealing with the same thing in a new costume..that will get you off your behind to make some changes!( This is the one I use for morning pages every day)

Then I have my vacation journals that I take on vacations and write about what is happening and draw pictures and little watercolor scteches of we are seeing or doing to record our vacations with. Then my lists,hopes,quotes and dreams journal..also refered to as the someday journal.This one is always with me to jot down something that pops in my head.

OK that is my short list. There are actually more.They are all blank paged hard covered books, some leather, some just pretty, whatever catches my eye when I go shopping for a new one, reflective of where I am at in my head at the time. ( Gosh…didn’t know you asked for a guest post…sorry for the long reply)

I’ve kept journals on some of my vacation trips…Plus I add some of my cartoons to capture the momenet. They’re great to look at years later, they bring all my memories back.

Though I’ve gotten so used to the keyboard, my handwriting has suffered.

I actually don’t like to write manually anymore. I get frustrated that my thoughts come out faster than I can put the words down on paper. Then there’s a backlog and I get cramps in my hands trying to scribble everything down in time before it’s lost.

I much prefer using a computer. At least with a keyboard, my hands can somewhat keep up with my brain.

Loved this post but then journaling is a favorite topic of mine.

I posted about my journals and journaling at Journal, Journaling and the Journey

Crayola Markers, ehh? That is an advantage of a sketchbook with its heavier pages. I do keep a secret stash of 10 color glitter ink pens. I know, it’s so out of character. *sigh*

Apologies in advance if the link doesn’t code right. WP and I haven’t been on the same code page since their last upgrade. And I’m thinking about switching to WP why?

A person has to be invited to read this blog. May I have an invitation.

Drawing? Nobody said anything about drawing! I can barely write legibly, and even that’s up to debate, now you want me to DRAW?? (grin)

Hi, Melissa –

I don’t keep a daily journal, but (like Wendi and Friar) I do keep vacation journals. My husband and I take turns chronicling our vacation events, and we do our best to keep ticket stubs, postcards, and other memorabilia in our travel journals. It’s great to look back on them are remember the little moments we captured – ones we would have otherwise forgotten.

Melissa, just the sight of a journal gets my fingers twitching. Like you, nothing does it for me like pen and paper. There are times that I free write on the computer but it seems so efficient (and very much like the writing work I do daily) that it doesn’t feel the same. The pen seems to connect me with a different flow, a wellspring of feeling and passion that don’t come as easily with the keyboard. I have a journal, prayer journal, idea journal and writing journal. Each with a purpose that taps into a different part of my heart and my mind. By the way, every time you mention that Mac, I get a goofy grin and a faraway look as I picture it beaming at me. Soon, soon I shall join the ranks. 🙂

@Wendi, you keep so many journals, it sounds like you could indeed write an entire post about them! I can totally relate to what you’re saying about cringing when you go back and read old journals. Not so much dealing with the same issues, but all that whining! I kept a lot of journals during my teen years and that’s all I’ll say about that.

@Friar, computers have destroyed good penmanship! I’ve heard this time and again on the blogs I read. I have to agree with you; it’s easier to keep up with my thoughts when I write on the computer, but the trade-off is that I do feel more creative with pen and paper. What’s a girl to do?

@Deb (gscottage), I remember that post you wrote about journaling! And yes, glitter pens are a little out of character! You’re full of fun surprises (I love those glitter pens too, but I don’t have any at the moment).

@Deb (Punctuality), well, you don’t have to draw. Unless you want to. I’m not an artist by any means, but I’ve found that while using a computer to type has had a negative impact on my handwriting, it hasn’t really affected what little drawing abilities I have. That’s sort of good news, right?

@Rebecca, I’ve always wanted to keep a travel journal, but when I do travel (not very often), I’m always too busy to sit down and write. If I ever take that big trip to NY or Paris, I’m going to make journaling my adventures a priority!

@Karen, you’re going to LOVE the Mac. I promise! I’ll love my own Mac even more when I can get the rest of the software I need. Every time I see the word Mac, dollar signs swarm around my head! And yes, we are much alike when it comes to journaling. I used to keep separate journals too, but now I lump everything into one.

I agree, good penmanship is on the decline. It’s a dying skill. (Just like baking bread, or weaving and spinning your own wool). But in exchange, we gain other skills.

The upside is technology gives us more time to focus on the actual CONTENT of the writing, instead of how pretty the words look on paper.

With so many finite hours in a given day, I guess it’s a matter of deciding what you want to spend your time on.

(PS. I hate the actual physical writing part…). Thanks to Sister Ellen in Grade 3 who sucked all the fun out of learning penmanship…what a miserable Old Bat! 😉

Good to see you again Melissa. I have been away for a bit here but came back to find your informative and quality posts stayed steady. 🙂

My journal is my friend, but I can only visit when I am relaxed. I always write by hand and it means I need to unwind to do it.

But there is something else to it- when I am really working through things I always find a silent space where I can listen. I often don’t want to invade that space, even with my own words. So I tend to journal when the storm is over.

I am journalling more now. 🙂

@friar – I definitely agree that modern manuscripting leave more time for content.

I was the first left-handed student the first grade teacher was not allowed to change and it drove her crazy. Actually she would just shake her head and murmur “you’ll never learn to write.” And I didn’t until recently. My handwriting is generally much better now unless I am very tired (like at the end of back to back Blue books). But I didn’t learn how to type until I went back to university in 02. (Don’t ask what I was doing in journalism school at 19 when I couldn’t type.)

Now with wordprocessing I feel much freer to just tap away because if it has a problem I just cut and paste or hit delete. Never again do I have to completely retype something because I forgot the footnote on page 2 of 26 pages. Hallelujah!

Melissa: I have “The Artist’s Way” and did morning pages for a while. I also have a book on “the proprioceptive method” of journaling which is basically listening to your thoughts and slowing down the thought process to the time it takes you to write down what you’re thinking. By slowing down the thought process you can better reflect on what you’re thinking. I’m working on creating a morning ritual for myself right now and I want to reincorporate journal writing into my life.

Melissa: I journal haphazardly on a moleskin watercolor book with tear out sheets. For me writing on paper is all about the feel of the paper I’m writing on and of the pen I use (a cheap 2.49 pilot explorer with extra fine tip). Into the book I paste images, cartoons, photos, write stuff, even jot down grocery lists (these can be interesting to come back to sometimes), impressions of any sort or anything that comes to mind and which I fear forgetting. Once I finish one I put it away and start a new one.

I certainly do believe that journaling keeps the muse active, and provides a great source for material. I also share your sentiment about preferring to write on paper instead of typing it out on a keyboard. There definitely is something about the old-fashioned method that gets the juices flowing and lets one feel like a “real” writer.

As you mentioned in your post, I take a smaller notebook everywhere with me for when those random lightning bolts strike. I’ve never glued them to my main journal, but that actually sounds like an interesting idea. I think I’ll try that.

For me, journaling and blogging have to be kept separate because I’m (unsuccessfully) trying to blog for profession. The journal voice just seems too impersonal and unprofessional — as it very well should! But great ideas for a blog post definitely come from regular journaling.

Great post! Thanks!

Well, I’ve been journaling my entire life, too. I had those little diaries with locks as a kid and then there were just plain ole notebooks filled to the brim with oodles of doodles and lots of feelings. Like you, Melissa, I draw, write poetry, document the day’s events, or whatever I feel like putting on paper. I’ve written in pretty journals, on scratches of paper that I’ve tucked into journals…

I don’t journal as often as I used to, but I still do. And, it really isn’t the same to keep a journal online or saved in a file on the computer. Holding the journal and writing in it is such a creative, personal process. It’s calming and just a part of who I am. Actually, I have stacks of journals. I can’t imagine how many more I’ll collect in my lifetime. By the time I’m old, I may be lost in a sea of journals! hehehe

*smiles* Michele

I have journaled a fair bit of my life – I find the cathartic benefits to be quite fantastic. It is amazing how I talk myself through a problem in my journal.

I journal haphazardly with pen and paper (my preferred method) and have all my life but I do publish Sunday-Friday on my blog and I do some journaling there too.

Raw journaling on paper really does help you process thoughts and develop ideas!

I wish I had kept a vacation journal on our honeymoon, we did take pictures (9 rolls of film for a 6 day trip) and we did save all of our stubs and etc… I keep meaning to scrapbook all those pictures, it’s been 9 years now but one of these days I’ll get it done. I’m almost finished with our wedding scrapbooks – it is amazing how the memories come back once I start journaling in the scrapbooks.

I have an Aunt and Uncle who biked across France early in their marriage, they have been married for 33 years now and my Aunt is putting together a scrapbook of that trip. She says that the journals she kept are the only way she remembers a lot of the things that happened.

Excellent Article! Thanks to MicheleT who pointed me here via Plurk!

I recently started my Morning Pages again (as you already know). I don’t know why I stopped doing them (prob b/c of the time commitment) because they are the most helpful thing I’ve ever done. I also keep a regular daily journal (that isn’t really that “daily”). Most recently I’ve started a gluebook, which has become my art journal, of sorts. While I don’t write in it, I definitely express myself with the process of create collages on the pages.

Terrific post! 🙂

…Hah! Another lefty (like me!)

I was bored one summer when I was 12. My Mom had her old typewriter and her old college typing book. I taught myself to touch-type. Most useful thing I ever did.

You’re right. There is so much FREEDOM in being able to tap away on the keyboard, and cut and paste.

Without having to worry about carbon paper or liquid paper..!

@friar – Actually being a lefty is great and I have come to love it. I think it goes with my contrary nature to go against the crowd; and right-handedness is way too crowded. Remember August 13 is Left-Handed Day!

I actually forgot about carbon paper. Yeah, black carbon and white blouses are not a good combination. But I love Wite-out tape and use it for tons of stuff. You know Mike Nesmith’s mom invented, held the patent for, and manufactured the original Liquid Paper after developing the original formula in her kitchen until she sold it for a very handsome ROI. One very well-off lady. (Of course none of you ever heard of the Monkees.) To quote Paul Harvey – “and that’s the rest of the story.”

Remember having to bring a report to the “Typing Pool”. Where you’d bring your hand-written documents, and the Word Processor ladies would type it out for you? It took a couple of weeks just to go through a few edits.

I think people were more careful what they wrote, back then, though. A document only went through 2-3 revisions, not 20.

And Hey, I know all about the Monkees! I was too young when they first came out, but they were popular well into the 1970’s. Watched the reruns on TV as a kid.

Corgi Toys (if you remember those) even had a MonkeyMobile.

@Friar, that’s a good way to look at it. We do pick up a lot of new skills in exchange for penmanship. I’m in full agreement. Reminds me of a story I heard once about how we progressed from the abacus to the calculator and people were concerned math skills would be lost. Then came computers…

@Harmony, glad you’re back and journaling too! Yes, a journal is a lot like a friend — one who always listens. Carving out quiet time to be with our thoughts (and journals) is always helpful.

@Deb (gscottage), I really don’t know how we ever got along without word processing. I remember taking typing in junior high and it was SUCH a pain to make corrections or add footnotes. As much as Microsoft irritates me, I do appreciate that they created Word, which I love.

@Marelisa, the proprioceptive method sounds pretty good. Do you have the title of that book? I wouldn’t mind learning how to slow down my thoughts at will since most of the time they are spinning out of control!

@Milena, I bet your journals are fun to read through. I have a few like that — old journals that contain everything from drawings to shopping lists. They’re among the most interesting to look at. Also a good source for inspiration!

@Nathan, I think we’d all like to be professional bloggers. I wouldn’t mind that at all! You might be surprised at how responsive readers are when you blog in a more personal (journal) style. When I started Writing Forward, I had a very professional/clinical approach to the voice of each post and then I sort of threw my hands up in the air and got really casual. Guess what? Things improved: more subscribers, more comments, etc. The same thing happened when I stopped adhering to a strict schedule. Blogging is odd and surprising, to say the least.

@Michele, you’ve got me thinking about my own stacks of journals, and I’m trying to figure out if I’ve filled in more journals or if I have more waiting to be used. I have a whole shelf of blank journals and notebooks, and it seems to grow all the time!

Oh, and thanks for Plurking. I’m a Plurk member, but I haven’t been on it for more than five minutes. I really need to learn the ropes…

@JimBob51, yes, I think if we approach journaling with the notion to solve problems or provide some sort of relief, the whole process can be effective. I’ve done quite a bit of that type of journaling and saw impressive results.

@Blessed, welcome! And thanks for reading and commenting. One of the reasons I don’t journal about actual events is that I’ve always had a really good memory, and I figure if the details are important enough, I’ll remember them. But recently I’ve read a few old papers and realized that I don’t remember as much as I thought! So I’d like to start journaling events and trips much the same way you do.

@Hope, I have done a few collage projects, and I have to say that I love making collages! It’s just really time consuming but oh so much fun!

@Friar, I taught myself how to type too! Except I did it on a computer using this game called Typing Tutor. Kind of like Tetris. The letters would fall from the top of the screen and you had to hit them on the keyboard before they reached the bottom. By the time I took an actual typing class, I had it down and was the fastest student! Hahehe.

@Deb (gscottage): I have too heard of The Monkees! I own many of their songs and used to listen to their albums when I was a child. My mom and I watched their show all the time. Hey hey we’re the Monkees!

Typing Tetris? Oh man, I wish we had something like that when I was a kid.

By the way, the Monkees all played their own instruments. (Of course they did) 😉

While I in no way want to minimize Julia Cameron’s contributions to the field, you neglect to mention Natalie Goldberg’s wonderful Writing Down the Bones and Wild Mind , Kathleen Adams Journal to the Self , and Tristine Rainer’s The New Diary . I recall reading these long before Ms. Cameron. Nor do you mention Ira Progoff, and his At a Journal Workshop . All of these are equally as important.

@Melissa, Really? I’ve always wondered, because it’s darn hard to talk about some topics in a strictly professional way 🙂 — I’m definitely going to have to try a post in a more casual way!

@Melissa – You’re most welcome! You’ll love Plurk once you get the hang of it. There’s lots of writers there and even a Writer’s Clique. We share inspiration, motivation, cheer each other on, chat about what we had for lunch… It’s just great! 😉

Oh, and it sounds like you have some doodling and writing to do to fill up all those blank pages, girl! hehehe

I just popped back in to say I have really enjoyed all of these great comments and the discovery of a boatload of new blogs! I learned to type on a typewriter. It was so heavy that it could have killed me. I was maybe 6 or 7 and my mom said that typing was a skill everyone should have. When Word Perfect came along I taught myself. Gee, I suddenly feel like a relic at 44. Loved Peter, Davey and all the Monkeys. Oh man, I am old! Hey btw I’m on Plurk too. 🙂

I’m late to the party on this one, but I think I’ll give the morning pages a shot while I’m still in bed with a cup of coffee. 😉 Maybe it’ll make self-motivating in the morning easier—despite knowing every productivity trick in the book, motivation is not something I have mastered!

@friar – The four guys who comprised The Monkees were legitimate well-train musicians but they were originally (unbeknownst to them) signed to lip-sync to a pre-recorded track. It was either Nesmith or Dolenz who put up a big stink and actually orchestrated a small strike to do some test shows with them writing and “live” performing their own songs. It took off from there.

@karen – My dad who was a trained teacher actually kept signing me out of typing classes so I wouldn’t become a “dumb secretary” who “makes no money.” Makes me wonder what my mother thought of that since she went back to doing secretarial because he got fired and we lived off that secretarial income.

In high school I wrote my newspaper stories (school and the daily) by the 2 finger method on a broken red IBM Selectric in the back of the school typing lab (we’ll leave out what years those were). I had a Smith-Corona electric that was a graduation present for college but I was still in the hunt and peck mode so it always took a week to type a paper which meant no sleep.

In 1982/3 we bought a K-Pro and WordPerfect because my husband was writing his master’s thesis and I “typed” 280 of the 300 pages. Most of you are too young to have experienced the olden days of home computing. Y’all talk about booting and bios but you’re at the push-button stage. To get ready to type on the K-Pro meant turning it on to warm it up, and then take the boot disk to tell it what it was, then eject and put in the WordPerfect disk so it knew what I wanted to do. All of this is without a mouse so there were certain screens and stages where it was “safe” to make these changes. The internal storage was for in-use only so every 10 minutes -by the clock- I had to re-save to a five-and-a-quarter storage disk (eject WP, insert blank, save, reinsert WP). Everything would come to a halt if it got stuck in a “do-loop” which I’m told is remedied by hitting “esc” but the system cost us $1200 and had basically no warranty so it would sit till my husband came home. I’ll save the “modem” story for another day.

I kept a journal when I was a kid and then in 5th grade one of my friends brought it to school without me knowing and it went around the school like wildfire. I haven’t kept one since you never know who is gonna find it and show people everthing inside.

@Friar, yep, typing tetris was a lot of fun. I bet it’s still out there somewhere. I think the official name was Typing Tutor.

@otherdeb, I wasn’t going for a bibliography on books about journaling with this post…just wanted to share some tips and ideas. I chose The Artist’s Way because I wanted to talk about the usefulness of the morning pages. However, Writing Down the Bones is one of my favorite writing books, and I’ve mentioned it here on this blog a few times already. Thanks for sharing those other journaling resources with us.

@Nathan, yes, really! I think it depends on the type of blog you have and of course on your audience. For example, a casual voice wouldn’t be appropriate on a medical blog but would work well on a blog about pets.

@Michele, yep, I have lots of blank pages to fill and plenty of ideas too! Hopefully I’ll get to spend some time on Plurk one of these days. So far, all I’ve done is set up my account and accept requests that forward to my email. I’m not sure if I like it better than Twitter, which I also haven’t had time for lately. Kind of a bummer, but we can only do so much in a day.

@Karen, a relic? Geez, I thought you were about 30 from your photo (that’s younger than me, btw). I think my favorite Monkees song was “I’m a Believer.” There’s another (obscure) one called “Randy Scouse Grit” or something like that, which I like a lot too.

@Joel, The only time I’m not motivated is in the morning. When it comes to productivity, I’ve got everything down except mastering my sleeping habits. My vision is to sit on a lovely porch each morning (preferably before 10 a.m.) with my coffee and morning pages for about twenty minutes. We’ll see if that ever happens!

@Deb (gscottage), man, that would have been cheesy if the Monkees didn’t perform their own music. I mean it was kind of cheesy anyway, so can you imagine? Heheh.

@Coby, my mom always said don’t write down anything unless you don’t care who sees it. I did not take her advice. One of my boyfriends once read my journal and happened across a page where I was complaining about him. I didn’t really care since it was all legit and his invasion far outweighed what I had written.

Funny comment, Melissa! I just read the comment you left at my juice blog. Yeah, it’s me! That’s my new site. I have lots more to do to make it shine but it’s coming along. 😉

*smiles* Michele, aka Juice Girl

Hands down the favorite’s got to be “Daydream Believer.”

@Michele, very nice site you’ve put together! I like your handle “Juice Girl.” Love it, love it, love it!

@Deb (gscottage), that’s a good song too! It’s excellent for singalongs.

I’ve never had the journaling compulsion for some reason. I’m usually inspired to either write stories or to work on something that will make me money. I have a goal-oriented personality, I guess. Just writing down what happened during the day doesn’t fulfill me.

That said, I did keep one when I was in Europe for three weeks. Lots of time on the bus riding between countries, and I’d left my laptop at home, so I scribbled in a little journal.

It’s hard to stop writing. 🙂

@Melissa – thanks! *blushes* I appreciate the compliments! Juice Girl just popped in my head so I ran with it. I’m always making juices and juice fasting has become a huge part of my life. It’s been a crucial part of improving my health. 😉

@Lindsay, you could use a journal to generate ideas for stories or other paid projects. Not all writers want or need to keep a journal. It’s completely up to you. I would say it’s worth it to try journaling for a couple of weeks and see if you can’t find any benefits that support other areas of your writing.

@Michele, I’m a smoothie fan but haven’t explored juicing very much. Actually, I haven’t explored it at all. But I’ll keep my eyes on your blog for some tasty new smoothie recipes!

Hi Melissa,

You just inspired me to grab my gratitude journal and start writing again. I’m a very infrequent journaler. I guess I’m a bit like Lindsay and focus on more practical matters instead of spending time with a journal each day.

I do keep travel journals though and have quite a few sitting in my bedside table. For many journaling is very relaxing. I prefer to do craft and think about life in general. I find I relax more.

Come to think about it though, I do have a lovely creative journal from years ago. I used to draw, stick pictures in there and sketch. Loved that thing. Maybe there is hope for me after all. 🙂

Great post.

@Monika, I think it’s difficult to keep a journal when we write for a living. I know that since I started freelancing, I’ve moved away from some writing practices I used to enjoy very much, like journaling and writing poetry. I think that’s okay for now, but not for the long haul!

The gratitude journal is one of my favorites. It really helped me stay positive and hopeful through a difficult time.

@ Melissa: I think you are right. After a day of writing the last thing I want to do is write some more, even though it is by hand.

The positive mind set and appreciation for small things is what makes the gratitude journal so appealing to me. 🙂

Hi Melissa. I’ve been out of touch with my journalling and feeling guilty. I have a stack of books from past journalling and recording dreams. I used to write morning pages (I wrote about this success in Magic Happens on my blog).

But, for some reason I’ve been dancing around getting back at it. Keep my journal by my bedside and stare at it every morning! Help!!! Very strange indeed!

@Monika, I’ve been trying to think of a way to incorporate morning pages into my routine, and now I’m wondering if I can’t slip in a gratitude journal. Those entries don’t take very long, and I could write them while I sip my coffee. Good way to start the day!

@Davina, it sounds like you’ve developed some kind of resistance to your own journal. There are a couple of things you could do. You could schedule an appointment with yourself to sit down and write in it. Or just go do it right now. Maybe for your first entry, write about why you’re avoiding it. Once you figure that out, it might be easier to pick it up and write instead of staring at it.

Melissa, thanks for writing this post. I love journaling – always have – but I haven’t been very faithful in the last couple of years. Your beautiful post made me want to get it out and create! (By the way, I use the Watson-Guptill Sketchbook too. I love to use markers in it and glue things in.)

@Jessica, I haven’t been faithful to my journal lately either. I think it happens to a lot of writers. That’s okay though, as long as we come back to it eventually! And you did, so pat yourself on the back!

Another great page Melissa. Journal writing has to be one of the most wonderful psychotherapy tools on the planet. It keeps people away from cell-phones, TVs and computers and hopefully off the street when things could turn sour for some. I don’t know if my journal writing amounts to spit. But it sure as hell gets a lot of crapola out my head and heart and onto paper. For teachers, they ought to be doubling their effort to get adolescent men into writing to get their stuff onto paper. I have no doubt it would be an effective task as the boys take it up. The story about a teacher in NYC who taught it what was apparently the worst school in the US; had quite a number of tear-jerker stories to tell because of his success with at risk and serious problem students. A writer was invited to a school and he asked the class who ‘really’ wants to be a writer? A number of hands went up. He then asked, ‘Why are you wasting your time here. Why aren’t you at home writing?’ So why are you reading this pap! Why aren’t you writing?

Yes, journal writing can be very therapeutic indeed. Throughout my schooling, I had several teachers who required that students keep a daily journal; we were usually given time in class each day to compose our entries. It had a profound impact on me, and I kept at it for a long time afterwards.

I started journaling when I was twelve and try to keep it up regularly. The habit has come in quite handy, actually, during some extremely tough spots in my life, like losing dear friends. Through these times, I wrote out my feelings. Sometimes that was the only way to take some of the weight off my heart. It didn’t make it go away completely, but it felt healing, and now I have a lot of inner thoughts, emotions, and feelings to look to for inspiration in my creative writing. Reading this post made me realize that I need to get another journal (the one I have I keep by my bed and write in at night before turning in)–this one to carry around with me! Sometimes when I have a sudden idea, I quickly jot it down on my iPod. But having a real journal would be much better. Thank you for this post! It’s inspired me to be more proactive about my journaling and keeping track of my creative flow.

It’s true: writing is so therapeutic! I think a lot of us are moving toward electronic writing tools nowadays, since it’s so much easier to carry a smart phone as opposed to a notebook and a pen, but I still prefer doing some of my writing the old-fashioned way.

I am obsessed with journaling. I love your thoroughness of explaining journaling. I wrote a book on how I journal that I think people who love to journal–I believe it could benefit other journal lovers.

I’m so glad you enjoyed this piece. Journaling is truly a wonderful practice.

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Hello, welcome to a little thing called 750 Words

Join 858,926 other writers by signing up now →, ★ what is this site about.

It's about learning a new habit: Writing. Every. Day.

I've long been inspired by an idea I first learned about in The Artist's Way called morning pages. Morning pages are three pages of writing done every day, typically encouraged to be in "long hand", typically done in the morning, that can be about anything and everything that comes into your head. It's about getting it all out of your head, and is not supposed to be edited or censored in any way. The idea is that if you can get in the habit of writing three pages a day, that it will help clear your mind and get the ideas flowing for the rest of the day. Unlike many of the other exercises in that book, I found that this one actually worked and was really really useful.

I've used the exercise as a great way to think out loud without having to worry about half-formed ideas, random tangents, private stuff, and all the other things in our heads that we often filter out before ever voicing them or writing about them. It's a daily brain dump. Over time, I've found that it's also very helpful as a tool to get thoughts going that have become stuck, or to help get to the bottom of a rotten mood.

750 Words is the online, future-ified, fun-ified translation of this exercise. Here's how it works:

★ All online and private

In the past, looking for a spare notebook was probably easier than looking for a computer. Not anymore. I don't know if my hands even work anymore with pen and paper for any task that takes longer than signing a check or credit card receipt.

★ It's not blogging or status updating

I've tried writing my 750 words a day on Livejournal, Wordpress, PBWorks, Tumblr, and all of these other sites designed around putting content online. It hasn't worked for me. I fear that I might accidentally forget to mark daily pages as private. And it's just weird having my private brain dumps out on various sites that are designed to be more social. I don't need to title my entries, or tag them, or enable comments, or any of that other stuff. This is writing, and it's online, but it's not blogging, or Twittering, or Facebook status updating. This is between you and you.

★ 3 Pages = 750 words

I looked this up. 250 words per page is considered to be the standard accepted number of words per page. So, three standard pages are about 750 words. Of course if 750words.com hadn't been available, I would've totally found a way to prove that 249 words per page was the accepted standard. It really just comes down to the fact that this amount of writing feels about right. You can't just fart out 3 pages without running into your subconscious a little bit... 750 words takes a bit of effort, and it never fails to get me typing things that I have wanted to articulate without realizing it. And that's the point.

Because 750 words is nothing to sneeze at, it's also nice to have an easy way to know how many words you have to go. This site of course tracks your word count at all times and lets you know when you've passed the blessed 750 mark. And it gives you a nice big screen to write on, automatically scrolls as you write (like a typewriter), and automatically saves your writing as you go.

★ It's fun

Every month you get a clean slate. If you write anything at all, you get 1 point. If you write 750 words or more, you get 2 points. If you write two, three or more days in a row, you get even more points. It's fun to try to stay on streaks and the points are a way to play around with that. You can also see how others are doing points-wise if you're at all competitive that way. How I see it, points can motivate early on, and eventually the joy of writing will kick in and you'll be writing without any external motivation at all.

★ Learn about yourself in the process

For example, learn about how often you get distracted, and how fast you write.

Every day you write, you'll get beautiful stats that analyze the feelings, themes, and mindset of your words.

★ It's about writing, and getting into your brain

The rest are just tricks to help get us there.

★ Who made this?

I did , and Kellianne helps keep it running smoothly. Tell us what you think of it or how you want it to improve by talking with us over at on Twitter or Facebook .

Mental Health Journaling: The Benefits of Writing for Wellness

• May 08, 2024

Home » Day One Blog » Mental Health Journaling: The Benefits of Writing for Wellness

As the benefits of mental health journaling continue to be researched, we’re finding more about how this simple practice can improve various aspects of well-being and overall quality of life. Studies have shown that engaging in regular journaling can help reduce stress, manage anxiety and depression symptoms, enhance self-awareness, promote emotional regulation, and even strengthen resilience in the face of challenges.

In this article, we’ll explore the many compelling benefits of mental health journaling. We’ll also offer some prompts and techniques for expanding your journaling practice.

Key Takeaways

• Just 15 to 20 minutes a day of journaling is enough to see the mental health benefits.
• Journaling can be a healthy way of coping with everyday stress and challenges.
• Journaling helps clarify thoughts and regulate emotions.
• Expressive writing facilitates self-reflection, personal growth, and problem-solving.

The Compelling Benefits of Mental Health Journaling

Whatever your reason to start, journaling is a powerful tool that will help you manage and maintain your mental health. 

1. Establish Healthy Coping Skills

Creating healthy coping skills is foundational to maintaining mental wellness. Coping methods are the habits that help you get through stressful or painful experiences. From working out frustrations at the gym to biting fingernails, everyone has big and small, healthy and not-so-healthy ways to cope with life’s challenges. You may not even be aware of the ways you cope with stress, but daily journaling can help you recognize the positive and negative (adaptive and maladaptive) habits you have for dealing with distress. 

Journaling itself is a healthy coping method that anyone can add to their personal toolbox. You don’t need to be a skilled writer or invest in a lot of special equipment. If you can carve out 15 to 20 minutes of quiet time each day, you can instantly start enjoying how journaling benefits mental health. 

A pen and a simple plain notebook or your fingers and a laptop are all you need to get started. Using journal prompts makes writing even easier. Journaling can become your go-to method of dealing with stressful or painful situations.

2. Reduce Stress

Journaling as  expressive writing can also relieve stress . In fact, journaling is scientifically proven to help reduce stress levels and the symptoms of anxiety.

The many  benefits of journaling  are backed by research, with some of the health benefits of expressive writing including lowered blood pressure, improved mood, and a reduction in the number of stress-related doctor’s visits.

3. Manage Anxiety and Depression Symptoms

People diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns are often  encouraged to include journaling  in their self-care routine. Studies have shown that journaling can  help people manage anxiety and reduce symptoms , especially as part of a mental health treatment program.

Journaling for anxiety , in particular, can increase your self-awareness and help you recognize patterns in your behavior that might be adding to your stress level. Through journaling, you can better track patterns in your behavior that can lead to positive change. Your journal can also reveal how you’ve changed over time and which coping strategies were the most successful.

4. Release and Process Emotions

In childhood, we all learn how to handle our emotions. The first lessons in coping skills come from watching others, mainly parents or other authority figures. Unfortunately, those lessons are sometimes maladaptive. An inability to release and process emotions in a healthy way can affect your self-esteem, relationships, and mental and physical wellness. 

Journaling can help you better understand your emotions. Journaling about feelings offers an opportunity to express your emotions in a safe, private space without judgment. Instead of pushing down uncomfortable feelings or following dysfunctional family patterns because they are familiar, you can pour your thoughts and feelings onto the pages of your journal. 

Expressing emotions is the first step to understanding them better. If, like many people, you’ve been taught to avoid “negative” emotions, you may have difficulty distinguishing between anger and hurt or shame and regret. Journaling is a way to get to know your feelings without sharing them with anyone else. There’s no need to worry about what others might think or if you’re expressing yourself in the “right” way. Your journal is a private space where you can explore your feelings in a way that works for you. 

5. Identify Patterns and Triggers

Journaling benefits mental health by giving you a platform to examine patterns in your moods, reactions, behavior, and thought processes. You may learn you’re unhappy with some of the ways you react and take steps to change. 

Looking through the pages of your journal, you’ll likely recognize your personal triggers—the things that make you feel strong emotions or act out in maladaptive ways. Once you understand these patterns and triggers, you can take steps to change them or change the way you react to them. 

Reflecting on your thoughts and behaviors also encourages you to look at yourself through many different lenses. The point of self-awareness isn’t only to become aware of your more negative traits. Seeing your strengths and your successes is just as important. Recognizing your accomplishments helps you have confidence when things are difficult. 

6. Deepen Self-Awareness

Regular self-reflection is like having a deep conversation with yourself. You can learn things about yourself through journaling that you may not have realized before. If you’re like most people, many of your habits, behaviors, and ways of thinking are automatic. They are learned reactions that you perform without thinking. 

Consider the benefits of self-awareness:

• Self-reflection helps to focus your energy on a specific goal. Gaining insight can help you be more productive and let go of self-doubt. In the business of everyday life, people don’t often have the time to stop and contemplate why they think or react a certain way, especially in circumstances that are emotionally charged. One of the benefits of journaling is that it’s a way to stop, mentally relax, and take time each day to reflect on the most important things.  
• Discover your values, beliefs, and core identity. Part of self-growth is understanding how your core identity forms. Many people grow into adulthood without questioning the values they learned at home, through peer groups, or in their culture. 
• Improve problem-solving and decision-making skills . Self-doubt is an obstacle to making decisions, but journaling can help. Instead of overthinking and making a problem more complicated, writing allows you to empty your mind of confusing and conflicting thoughts. Whatever the issue, journaling is a beneficial way to organize your thoughts so you can see a challenge and its solutions with more clarity. (More on that next.)

7. Clarify Thoughts and Find Solutions

Have you ever said, “I don’t know what to think,” and really meant it? Sometimes there are so many ideas and options that it feels almost impossible to sort them out. Writing in your journal is a way to sort out a multitude of confusing thoughts and get some clarity. 

You can take an analytic approach to journaling when you need to solve a problem or make a big decision. Make a pros and cons list, or write about the possible scenarios related to a difficult decision. Once you’ve written out all the “what ifs,” you can take your time and see how you feel about the potential outcomes. 

Looking back at previous journal entries can also help you get perspective. Reviewing how you’ve handled problems in the past and what you might like to do differently this time can give you the confidence you need to make a change.

8. Strengthen Resilience in the Face of Challenges

When faced with difficult situations or setbacks, journaling provides a way to reflect on challenges and explore different perspectives. Through writing, you can gain new insights, identify patterns, and recognize your own strengths and resources. This process can enable you to reframe your experiences and find new meaning or opportunities for growth within difficult circumstances. By shifting your perspective through journaling, you can build resilience by cultivating a more positive and adaptive mindset.

For example, journaling provides a space for exploring strategies to overcome challenges. By engaging in reflective writing, you can explore different options and develop action plans. Journaling can help build resilience by fostering a sense of control, agency, and proactive engagement with your challenges.

How to Start Mental Health Journaling

Mental health journaling is often used in conjunction with therapy, especially if you are supporting your mental health needs and seeking professional guidance. A trained therapist can provide valuable insights, help you navigate difficult emotions that may arise during the journaling process, and offer personalized strategies for self-reflection and growth. Their expertise can enhance the benefits of therapeutic journaling, ensuring that you receive the necessary support and guidance to address your specific mental health concerns effectively.

However, if you’re starting on your own, here are some steps to guide you in establishing a mental health journaling practice:

1. Choose Your Favorite Way to Write

Decide whether you prefer to journal in a traditional notebook, a digital journaling app like Day One , or even an audio journal. Each medium offers unique advantages: notebooks provide a tactile experience that many find therapeutic; digital apps offer convenience and features like password protection and searchability; audio journals can be particularly helpful if you find speaking more natural than writing. Choose a format that feels most comfortable and accessible for you.

2. Ensure What You Write is Private

Ensure your journal is a private space where you can be completely honest. This confidentiality can make it easier to express thoughts and feelings you might not be ready to share with others. Consider keeping your journal in a locked drawer or using apps with strong end-to-end encryption to maintain your privacy.

3. Try a Structured Approach

If you’re unsure what to write about, consider using journal prompts tailored to your needs. Prompts such as “What am I feeling right now?” or “What did I do today that made me feel good?” can be a great starting point Having a structure can help ease you into the writing process by reducing the pressure to come up with topics on your own. For even more structure, you may want to try a journal template that leads you through the same reflective prompts or questions each time you have a journaling session.

4. Express Your Feelings

Allow yourself to express whatever comes to mind without judgment. The goal is to acknowledge your emotions and thoughts freely. Writing about your feelings can provide a safe outlet for expression and can lead to deeper insights over time. Expressive writing taps into your deepest thoughts and feelings, offering a release that can be both healing and enlightening.

5. Explore Fresh Insights

As you write, focus on uncovering new understandings about yourself and your experiences. Use your journal to explore questions that go deeper, like, “Why does this matter?” or “What can I learn from this?” Encourage yourself to dig beneath the surface of your initial thoughts and feelings, which can lead to transformative insights and personal growth.

6. Consider What Actions You Can Take

After identifying and exploring your feelings and thoughts, think about practical steps you can take to address issues or enhance your well-being. This might include setting small, manageable goals, planning changes in your behavior or environment, or identifying resources for further support such as books, websites, or professionals.

7. Be Patient and Kind with Yourself

Journaling is a personal process that can evoke strong emotions. Approach your experience with kindness and patience, understanding that growth and insight are gradual. Allow yourself the space and time to explore your thoughts and feelings without expectation for quick fixes or immediate clarity.

8. Regularly Review and Reflect to Understand Patterns

Periodically, look back on your journal entries. This can help you see patterns or changes in your thoughts and feelings over time, providing further insights into your mental health journey. This practice can also reinforce positive changes you’ve made and help you recognize areas where you may want to focus more attention moving forward.

By incorporating these steps into your journaling practice, you can create a powerful tool for managing your mental health, enhancing self-awareness, and fostering emotional resilience. Whether used alone or with professional support, mental health journaling can be a transformative and therapeutic practice.

Mental Health Journaling Prompts

The ways journaling benefits mental health are far-reaching, but sometimes staring at the blank page or screen can be intimidating. You may feel stuck when brainstorming an idea to write about or have so much to express you don’t know where to start. Journal prompts can enrich the journaling experience and help you get “unstuck.” 

Journaling prompts are questions, suggestions, or fill-in-the-blank sentences meant to inspire your journaling writing. Journaling prompts for mental health , specifically, may ask pointed questions about your emotions, challenges, or things you are doing to protect your wellness. 

Here are some prompts that can benefit your goal for better mental health:

What feelings am I struggling with right now?

What are my biggest stressors currently, what is one fear or anxiety that i currently have, what am i avoiding by staying busy or distracted, what am i holding onto that i need to let go of, what are some ways i can take better care of myself this week, how have i changed in the last year, what personal strengths have helped me overcome challenges in the past, what situation recently made me feel happy or content, what are three things i am grateful for today.

When using journaling prompts, do your best to find a balance between staying on topic and allowing your mind to take you where it needs to go. Even a prompt that seems simple on the surface can lead to deep insights if you follow your instincts while writing. 

Experience the Benefits of Mental Health Journaling

Writing is a simple but effective way to support your mental health, no matter what challenges you’re facing. Whether you use journaling to complement other forms of mental health care or as a stand-alone practice, it can add meaning to your life on many levels.

Journaling has the potential to bring clarity, healing, and a sense of agency in navigating your emotions and experiences. So, grab a pen and paper, or open the Day One app , and allow the words to flow. Embrace the therapeutic benefits of writing and witness the positive impact it can have on your mental health and overall well-being.

Download the Day One Journal App Today

The Day One journaling app makes it easy to build and maintain a daily journaling habit. Daily journaling reminders , daily writing prompts , and journal streaks are designed to help keep you motivated and consistently journaling.

About the Author

Kristen Webb Wright is the author of three books on journaling. With a passion for writing and self-reflection, Kristen uses her experience with journaling to help others discover the benefits of documenting their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In her role at Day One, she helps to promote the power of journaling so people from all walks of life can experience the transformative power of journaling.

This content is not professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  You understand and agree that the services, products, and any other information you learn from Day One are not intended, designed, or implied to diagnose, prevent, or treat any condition or to be a substitute for professional medical care . Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have. If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you’re having suicidal thoughts, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area at any time (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline). If you are located outside the United States, call your local emergency line immediately.

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When is Teacher Appreciation Week 2024? How to celebrate the educators in your life

Second to parents, teachers probably spend the most time with youngsters, playing a huge role in shaping the minds of tomorrow. And now it's time to show them a little love, celebrating them during Teacher Appreciation Week.

Here's what to know about Teacher Appreciation Week and what you can do for the teachers in your life.

It's Teacher Appreciation Week: Here's how to show your appreciation

When is Teacher Appreciation Week 2024?

In 2024, Teacher Appreciation Week is May 6 to 10. It's always the first full week of May, according to Teachers of Tomorrow .

What is Teacher Appreciation Week?

The week is a time to show teachers and educators appreciation for their dedication and hard work. According to Teachers of Tomorrow, they take on a "tremendous responsibility" shaping the minds of their students and preparing them for the future.

How did Teacher Appreciation Week begin?

In the 1950s, a teacher named Mattie Whyte Woodridge began a push for a national day to honor teachers, according to Teachers of Tomorrow. Eleanor Roosevelt took up the cause, and in 1953 persuaded Congress to establish a day. Then, in 1986, the National Education Association successfully lobbied to turn it into a full week.

Teacher Appreciation Week gifts: 12 best personalized teacher gifts

How to show appreciation to teachers

Teachers of Tomorrow has many suggestions on how parents and students can show their appreciation.

Students can write a letter to their teacher or create a presentation. They can bring a meaningful gift, like the teacher's favorite candy, a personalized coffee mug or gift certificate to the teacher's favorite store. Students can also organize a surprise celebration or a class gift.

Teach Appreciation Week isn't just for students.

Parents can volunteer at the school, write a letter or create a social media post supporting their child's favorite teacher, or help decorate the classroom.

The National PTA also suggests donating school supplies. The PTA has a toolkit available to help throw a little creativity into cards, certificates, fliers and social media graphics to thank teachers.

The National Education Association is looking for stories of extraordinary educators. You can submit one online as well as share a message on social media, tagging @NEAToday, and using the hashtag #ThankATeacher.

Teacher Appreciation Week deals

Teach for America has a long list of deals available for Teacher Appreciation Week, including:

• Apple : For faculty, staff, and homeschool teachers of all grade levels, Apple offers a range of special savings and pricing on Apple Music, Macs and iPads, select accessories, and more.
• Dell : Public school teachers and K-12 students receive exclusive discounts on select laptops, desktops, tablets, and other Dell products and accessories through Dell's Member Purchase Program.
• Jo-Ann Fabric : Snag a Teacher Rewards Discount Card for 15% off every purchase year-round.
• Michael’s : Teachers get 15% off purchases at this craft superstore.
• Barnes & Noble : Receive 20% off purchases for the classroom and enjoy discounts of up to 25% off the publisher’s list price during Educator Appreciation Days.
• Books-A-Million : Receive free custom quotes for your classroom, special pricing on shipping, bulk orders and more when you sign up for the BAM Educator Card!
• USA Today : Educators can get up to 45% off classroom subscriptions.

Meanwhile, Teachers of Tomorrow's list of deals includes discounts for vacations, software, school supplies and more. The organization said these were the best deals of 2023, which could return this year:

• Office Depot / OfficeMax:  Offering 30% back in Bonus Rewards on a qualifying in-store purchase. This is a great opportunity to stock up on classroom essentials.
• Staples:  Keep an eye out for deals and promotions tailored for teachers. Staples often provides special discounts during Teachers Appreciation Week.
• Ford:  Teachers who take a virtual test drive through May 7 will receive a $50 e-gift card that can be used to contribute to teacher requests on DonorsChoose. 
• Burger King:  Enjoy free fries with any purchase. Teachers and all other customers can indulge in this savory treat during Teachers Appreciation Week.
• Buffalo Wild Wings:  Offering six boneless wings for just $1 with the purchase of any BBW Burger. 
• The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf:  Providing any large drink for $5 if you have a valid teacher’s ID from May 6 to 15.