By Regina Kaza
Journaling can be an incredibly therapeutic way to release thoughts and find clarity during chaotic times. But how do you start?
Some people are able to sit down, pen in hand, and release a stream of consciousness that eventually leads them to brilliant “aha” moments and solving world hunger, but personally, that’s never worked for me. Sometimes you need a kick-off point. A topic or a prompt to journal about can help guide those thoughts in your head wherever you want them to go or not go. There are no rules!
For me, the best part of journaling is simply waking up in the morning, sitting down with my coffee and cultivating positive thoughts. It doesn’t matter what I write but the fact that I took time out of my day to self reflect and reset is what makes it worth it. It’s the experience that makes journaling therapeutic and there is no right or wrong way to experience anything.
Here are some of my favorite topics:
WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR?
This is one I love to write about first thing in the morning or right before I go to sleep. What are three (or more) things you’re grateful for? No matter what happens during the day, how you feel, what you did or didn’t do, there is always something to be grateful for. And that’s worth reminding yourself about.
WHAT MADE YOU SMILE TODAY?
Before you go to sleep, think about what made you smile today. It could be as big as receiving great news or laughing with loved ones or as small as a funny video in your feed. Regardless, there is always something to smile about. And if you can’t think of one, scroll through these cute animal Tweets and write one down.
HOW DO YOU ENVISION YOURSELF IN THE FUTURE?
This is a good one to explore and come back to when you’re feeling lost or unsure. What does the best version of yourself look like? What do you want to do? Who do you want to be? This prompt can help you gain clarity on what you want out of life and start setting micro-goals to get there. Write this one in the present tense, as if this has already happened and you are already this person. Then read it over and over again until it comes true.
Share your favorite journaling topics below to grow this list!