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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.

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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.

250+ Journal Prompts for Every Scenario and Circumstance

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a blank page, wondering what to write about, you’re in luck.

We’ve put together the ultimate list of journal prompts to spark your creativity, help you dive deep into your thoughts, set goals – whatever it is that you’re looking for.

Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or just starting out, these prompts are designed to inspire reflection, creativity, and a bit of fun. So grab your favorite pen, and let’s get writing!

Why Journal Prompts?

Journal prompts are thought-provoking questions or statements designed to ignite the spark of creativity and introspection. They serve as a starting point for your journaling journey, guiding you through the exploration of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The beauty of journal prompts lies in their versatility—they can be reflective, creative, goal-oriented, or simply fun, providing a fresh perspective each day.

Why might you need journal prompts? Well, it’s easy to get caught in the routine of daily life, leading to a creativity block or the feeling of being stuck in a rut. Journal prompts offer a gentle nudge to break free from these barriers, encouraging you to look within and explore aspects of your life you might not usually think about.

They’re not just about writing; they’re about discovering and understanding yourself on a deeper level. So, whether you’re looking to overcome writer’s block, set goals, or embark on a journey of self-discovery, journal prompts are your trusty companions.

A List of Our Favorite Journal Prompts

Beginner journaling prompts.

Starting your journaling journey can feel daunting, but fear not! Beginner journal prompts are here to ease you in. Perfect for those new to journaling, these prompts are simple, straightforward, and designed to help you start reflecting and writing with ease.

1. What are three things you’re grateful for today? 2. Describe your favorite place in the world and why it brings you joy. 3. Write about your best memory from the past year. 4. What are three goals you have for this month? 5. How do you feel right now, and why? 6. List five things that make you happy and explain why. 7. What is one thing you would like to learn or improve this year? 8. Describe your perfect day. What would you do, who would you be with, and where would you go? 9. What are your top three priorities right now, and why? 10. Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How did you overcome it? 11. What is one book that has impacted your life, and in what way? 12. Write about someone who inspires you and why. 13. Describe a moment recently when you felt proud of yourself. 14. What is a habit you would like to start, and why? 15. Think about your future self in five years. What message would you like to give them?

Learn how to get started journaling with our beginner’s guide .

Gratitude Journal Prompts

Gratitude journaling is a powerful practice to cultivate positivity and appreciation in your life. These prompts are designed to help you recognize and celebrate the good, no matter how small. Use them to reflect on the blessings in your life, fostering a mindset of gratitude that can transform your outlook and well-being.

Perfect for morning reflections or end-of-day contemplation, these prompts will guide you in acknowledging the abundance surrounding you:

16. What is one kind thing someone did for you recently? 17. Reflect on a challenge you faced that ultimately led to growth. What are you grateful for in that experience? 18. Name three small joys you encountered today. 19. Think of a time when you felt truly at peace. What about that moment made you grateful? 20. Who in your life are you thankful for and why? Consider sending them a message of appreciation. 21. What is an aspect of your health or body that you’re grateful for? 22. Describe a skill or talent you possess that you’re grateful for. How has it enriched your life? 23. Recall a recent moment of laughter or joy. What sparked it? 24. What is something in nature you recently observed that filled you with gratitude? 25. Reflect on a piece of art, music, or literature that moved you. Why are you thankful for this experience?

Learn more about gratitude journaling .

Mindfulness Journaling Prompts

Mindfulness journaling is a serene voyage into the present moment, inviting you to anchor your thoughts and emotions through the act of writing. This practice encourages you to observe your experiences without judgment, fostering a deeper connection with your inner self and the world around you. These prompts are designed to guide you in exploring your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings with a fresh, attentive perspective.

Perfect for starting your day with intention or unwinding in the evening, mindfulness journaling helps cultivate a peaceful mind and a grateful heart.

26. Spend a moment focusing on your breath. Describe how it feels entering and leaving your body. 27. What sounds can you hear right now? Note them and reflect on how they affect your mood. 28. Think about the last meal you had. Can you recall the flavors and textures? Write about the experience. 29. Look around and pick an object you usually overlook. Describe its details and what it might symbolize or mean to you. 30. Reflect on your current emotional state without judgment. What are you feeling, and why might that be? 31. When was the last time you felt truly present? Describe the experience and how it made you feel. 32. Choose a color you’ve seen today that made an impression on you. Write about the emotions or memories it evokes. 33. Think about a recent conversation. What was communicated beyond words? 34. Describe a texture you’ve touched today (e.g., the fabric of your clothes, the surface of your desk) and your sensations. 35. Reflect on a scent you encountered today. What memories or feelings does it bring up for you?

Learn more about mindfulness journaling .

Journal Prompts for Anxiety

Journaling can be a sanctuary for those moments when anxiety feels overwhelming. It offers a private, safe space to untangle your thoughts, fears, and worries. The prompts in this section are carefully crafted to guide you through self-reflection and awareness, helping you identify triggers, patterns, and coping mechanisms.

They encourage a gentle exploration of your inner landscape, providing a path towards understanding and soothing your anxiety. Whether you’re seeking clarity, peace, or a way to process your feelings, these prompts are here to support your journey towards peace.

36. What’s one worry that’s been on your mind lately? Describe it in detail and then explore what steps, if any, you can take to address it. 37. Reflect on a moment when you felt anxious but things turned out better than you expected. What does this teach you? 38. Write about a place or situation where you feel most at peace. What makes this place or situation calming for you? 39. Identify three things you can control in your life right now and how you can positively influence them. 40. When anxiety strikes, what physical sensations do you notice in your body? Describe them and consider what they might be telling you. 41. Think about a recent anxiety trigger. Write about it and explore alternative perspectives or outcomes. 42. Describe a time when you overcame a fear or anxious moment. What strengths did you discover about yourself? 43. Create a list of activities or practices that help reduce your anxiety. How can you incorporate more of these into your daily routine? 44. What are some words of encouragement you can offer yourself when you feel anxious? Write them down as a reminder for tough days. 45. Reflect on the support system you have in your life. How can you reach out to them during moments of anxiety?

Learn more about journaling to overcome anxiety .

Reflective Journal Prompts

Reflective journaling is a profound journey into the depths of your own experiences, thoughts, and emotions. It offers a unique opportunity to pause, look inward, and evaluate different aspects of your life and the choices you’ve made. These prompts are designed to inspire deep introspection and personal growth, helping you to understand your motivations, reactions, and the lessons life is teaching you. By engaging with these prompts, you’ll uncover new insights about yourself, leading to greater self-awareness and a clearer vision for your future.

Whether you’re reflecting on the day’s events or contemplating long-term goals and dreams, reflective journaling is a powerful tool for personal development and self-discovery.

46. Reflect on a recent decision you made. What were your reasons, and how do you feel about the outcome? 47. Think about a relationship in your life that has changed over time. What have you learned from this relationship? 48. Describe a moment when you felt truly understood by someone. What made that experience significant? 49. Consider a time when you faced a failure. What did you learn from it, and how has it shaped your approach to challenges? 50. Identify a moment when you stepped out of your comfort zone. What were the results, and would you do it again? 51. Reflect on a compliment you received that made you feel good. Why do you think it had such an impact on you? 52. Write about a goal you achieved that you’re proud of. What steps did you take to reach it, and what obstacles did you overcome? 53. Think about a time when you had to forgive someone. What did the process feel like, and how did it affect your relationship moving forward? 54. Describe a moment when you felt a strong connection to something bigger than yourself (nature, humanity, the universe). What was the context, and how did it change your perspective? 55. Reflect on the past month. What were the high points and low points, and what lessons can you take from them?

Learn more about reflective journaling .

Healing Journal Prompts

Journaling for healing is a powerful practice for nurturing your mind, body, and spirit as you journey through recovery and growth. It offers a space to explore your feelings, process trauma, and celebrate progress, no matter how small.

These prompts are designed to guide you gently towards self-compassion, understanding, and ultimately, healing. By engaging with these questions, you create an opportunity to confront pains and challenges directly, allowing for emotional release and the discovery of inner strength.

Whether you’re healing from a loss, trauma, or simply seeking to mend parts of your self, these prompts are steps towards a more whole and healed you.

56. Write about a time you felt lost, and how you found your way back. What helped guide you? 57. Describe a wound (emotional or physical) that you’re carrying. What might it need to begin healing? 58. Reflect on a conversation that changed your perspective. How did it impact your healing process? 59. Think about someone who has hurt you. What would you say to them if you could, and why? 60. Identify a fear that holds you back from healing. What steps can you take to face it? 61. Write about a moment of unexpected joy in a difficult time. What did it teach you? 62. Consider a part of yourself you’ve been neglecting. How can you start giving it the attention it needs? 63. Reflect on the role of forgiveness in your healing—whether it’s forgiving yourself or others. What makes it challenging or liberating? 64. Describe a dream or goal that motivates your healing journey. How does it shape your path forward? 65. Think about a ritual or practice that brings you comfort during tough times. Why is it effective for you?

Learn more about journaling for healing .

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) Journal Prompts

Cognitive Behavioral Journaling is a transformative tool that bridges the gap between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), this form of journaling encourages you to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, ultimately fostering healthier and more positive ways of thinking and acting.

Through structured prompts, you’re guided to dissect your reactions to various situations, understand the source of your emotions, and reconstruct your thought processes. This method is particularly effective for managing stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges.

By regularly engaging with cognitive behavioral journaling, you can develop greater self-awareness and resilience, leading to improved mental health and wellbeing.

66. Identify a recent situation that made you upset. What were the thoughts running through your mind? 67. Write down a belief about yourself you recognize as negative. Can you challenge it with evidence to the contrary? 68. Think of a recent anxiety-inducing event. What was the worst-case scenario you imagined? How likely is it to happen? 69. Describe a situation where you felt angry. What thoughts fueled that anger? Were they justified? 70. Recall a moment you felt sad or down. What thoughts contributed to these feelings? Are there alternative, more positive ways to view the situation? 71. Identify a recurring negative thought. What situations trigger it? How can you respond differently next time? 72. Reflect on a time you avoided something due to fear or anxiety. What were your underlying thoughts How can you face this fear? 73. Write about a conflict with someone else. What were your thoughts during the conflict? How might their perspective differ? 74. Consider a goal you’re struggling to achieve. What negative thoughts are holding you back? How can you reframe them positively? 75. Think of a compliment you struggled to accept. What negative beliefs about yourself made it difficult? How can you challenge these beliefs?

Learn more about CBT journaling .

Mental Health Journal Prompts

Mental health journaling is a deeply personal and reflective practice that offers a safe haven for exploring your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It’s a therapeutic tool that can help manage anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health challenges by providing an outlet for expression and self-discovery. Through the process of writing, you can uncover patterns in your thoughts and behaviors, gain clarity on your emotional state, and work towards a healthier mindset.

These prompts are designed to guide you gently towards greater self-awareness and emotional resilience, encouraging a journey of healing, understanding, and growth.

Whether you’re navigating difficult times or simply seeking to maintain your mental wellbeing, mental health journaling can be a powerful ally.

76. What are three emotions you’ve felt today, and what do you think prompted them? 77. Reflect on a recent stressful experience. What coping mechanisms did you use, and how effective were they? 78. Describe a time you felt overwhelmed this week. What can you learn from how you handled it? 79. Write about a moment of happiness or contentment you experienced recently. What made it significant? 80. Consider any negative self-talk you’ve noticed. How can you reframe these thoughts more positively? 81. Identify something that’s been causing you anxiety. What steps can you take to address or alleviate it? 82. Reflect on your social interactions lately. How have they impacted your mental health, for better or worse? 83. Think about your sleep patterns and their effect on your mood and mental state. What changes could improve your sleep? 84. Describe an activity that boosts your mood or helps you relax. Why do you think it has that effect? 85. Consider the role of forgiveness in your mental health. Is there someone (including yourself) you need to forgive, and how might it bring you peace?

Learn more about journaling for mental health .

ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) Journal Prompts

Similar to reflective or mindfulness journaling, ASMR Journal Prompts invite you into a world where the gentle whispers of self-reflection meet the tingling sensation of mindful awareness. This unique blend of sensory exploration and journaling is designed to not only soothe your mind but also to deepen your connection with your inner self.

Through carefully crafted prompts, you’ll be encouraged to explore the nuances of your senses, emotions, and thoughts in a way that’s both calming and introspective. Perfect for unwinding at the end of the day or as a tranquil start to your morning, these prompts aim to enhance your mindfulness practice by engaging the senses, fostering a state of relaxation and heightened awareness.

Let the subtle triggers of ASMR guide you through a journey of self-discovery and serene contemplation.

86. Describe a sound that calms you. What memories or feelings does it evoke? 87. Recall a texture or touch that relaxes you. How does it make you feel, and why? 88. Think of a visual scene or image that brings you peace. Describe it in detail and explore why it has this effect. 89. Write about a scent that brings you comfort or joy. What associations do you have with this smell? 90. Reflect on a taste that makes you feel happy or content. Describe the experience and its significance. 91. Imagine a gentle, soothing voice whispering words of encouragement to you. What would it say? 92. Describe a moment when you experienced a strong ASMR sensation. What triggered it, and how did it affect your mood? 93. Think about the feeling of warmth or coolness on your skin. Describe a time this sensation brought you comfort. 94. Reflect on the sensation of being in a serene, tranquil environment. What sounds, sights, and sensations contribute to the peace you feel there? 95. Consider the experience of creating or listening to an ASMR video. What elements do you find most soothing, and why?

Learn more about ASMR journaling .

Manifestation Journal Prompts

Manifestation journaling is a dynamic practice that bridges the gap between your current reality and the life you aspire to live. By engaging with manifestation prompts, you’re not just daydreaming about what you wish for; you’re actively participating in its creation.

This process involves visualizing your goals, setting intentions, and aligning your thoughts and actions with the outcomes you desire. These carefully curated prompts are designed to inspire clarity, focus, and positive energy, guiding you to reflect on your aspirations, acknowledge your strengths, and overcome obstacles.

Whether you’re seeking personal growth, career advancement, or more joy and abundance in your life, manifestation journaling is a powerful tool to support your journey towards making your dreams a tangible reality.

96. Visualize your ideal day from the moment you wake up to when you go to sleep. What does it include, and how does it make you feel? 97. Write a letter to your future self one year from now. What achievements and experiences do you want to share? 98. Describe a goal you’re passionate about. What steps can you take this week to bring you closer to it? 99. Reflect on a belief that may be holding you back. How can you reframe it to support your goals? 100. Think of a person whose life inspires you. What qualities do they possess that you can cultivate in yourself? 101. Imagine achieving one of your biggest dreams. What does it look like, and how does it impact your life? 102. List five things you’re grateful for in your life right now. How do these blessings help you move towards your goals? 103. Identify an obstacle you face. Write about how overcoming it could propel you closer to your desires. 104. Envision your life five years from now in vivid detail. What are you doing, and who are you with? 105. Create a mantra or affirmation that embodies your aspirations. How can you use it daily to keep focused on your goals?

Learn more about manifestation journaling .

Self-Care Journal Prompts

Self-care journaling is a nurturing practice that invites you to turn inward and dedicate time to your own well-being and happiness. It’s about acknowledging your needs, setting boundaries, and celebrating the small victories.

These prompts are designed to guide you in reflecting on your self-care practices, identifying areas of your life that need more attention, and exploring ways to nurture your mind, body, and soul.

Whether you’re looking to cultivate self-love, reduce stress, or simply make more space for joy and relaxation in your life, these prompts will help you on your journey towards a more balanced and fulfilled self.

106. What self-care practices make you feel most rejuvenated? How can you incorporate them more regularly into your routine? 107. Reflect on a time recently when you felt overwhelmed. What self-care strategies helped, or could have helped, you cope? 108. Identify a boundary you need to set or strengthen in your life. How will this support your well-being? 109. Write about a hobby or activity that brings you joy. Why is it meaningful to you, and how does it contribute to your self-care? 110. Consider your physical well-being. What are some steps you can take to nurture your body? 111. Think about your emotional health. What are some ways you can better support yourself during challenging times? 112. Reflect on your social connections. How do they impact your sense of well-being, and how can you cultivate supportive relationships? 113. Describe a place where you feel at peace and relaxed. What makes this space special, and how can you spend more time there? 114. What does a balanced day look like for you? Outline how you can achieve this balance in your current schedule. 115. Consider your spiritual or inner life. What practices or activities help you feel connected to your inner self or a higher power?

Morning Journal Prompts

Morning journaling is a refreshing way to start your day on the right foot, setting the tone for positivity and productivity. By taking a few moments each morning to reflect and write, you can clarify your thoughts, prioritize your day’s goals, and cultivate a mindset of gratitude and intention.

These prompts are designed to awaken your senses, stir your creativity, and inspire a sense of calm and focus as you embark on your daily journey.

Whether you’re seeking motivation, clarity, or a moment of peace, these morning prompts will help you greet each day with purpose and enthusiasm.

116. What is one intention you want to set for today? 117. List three things you’re looking forward to today. 118. What is a personal strength you can utilize today? 119. Describe a positive affirmation that resonates with you this morning. 120. What is one small act of kindness you can perform today? 121. Reflect on a dream you had last night. Does it inspire any thoughts or feelings for your day? 122. What is one challenge you might face today, and how can you approach it positively? 123. Consider what you’re most grateful for this morning. How does it impact your outlook on the day? 124. What is one goal you’d like to achieve by the end of the day? 125. How do you want to feel at the end of today, and what can you do to ensure that feeling?

Learn more about morning journaling .

Evening Journal Prompts

Evening journaling is a tranquil practice that allows you to unwind and reflect on the day that has passed. It’s a moment to celebrate your achievements, learn from your experiences, and set intentions for a peaceful rest and a fresh start tomorrow.

These prompts are designed to guide you through a process of introspection and gratitude, helping you to identify what truly mattered throughout your day and to release any tension or stress.

Whether you’re looking to cultivate a sense of calm, gain perspective, or simply cherish the quiet moments before bedtime, these evening prompts will support your journey towards a restful night and a reflective end to your day.

126. What was the highlight of your day, and why? 127. Reflect on a lesson you learned today. How can it inform your actions tomorrow? 128. Did you encounter any obstacles today? Write about how you overcame them or plan to address them. 129. List three things you’re grateful for from today. 130. How did you take care of your physical and mental well-being today? 131. What emotions did you experience most strongly today, and what triggered them? 132. Is there anything you wish you had done differently today? How can you apply this insight in the future? 133. Write about a moment of kindness or connection you experienced today. 134. How can you make tomorrow even slightly better than today? 135. Before you sleep, what thoughts or concerns do you need to release? Write them down to clear your mind.

Journal Prompts for Self Improvement

Self-improvement journaling is a powerful tool for personal development. It offers a reflective space to identify areas of growth, set actionable goals, and track progress over time. It’s about taking an honest look at yourself, recognizing both strengths and areas for improvement, and committing to the journey of becoming the best version of yourself.

These prompts are designed to inspire motivation, foster resilience, and encourage a mindset of continuous learning and growth. By engaging with these questions, you’ll uncover insights into your habits, behaviors, and attitudes, paving the way for meaningful change and self-fulfillment.

Whether you’re seeking to enhance your skills, boost your confidence, or simply live more intentionally, these self-improvement prompts will guide you through your personal evolution.

136. What is one habit you would like to develop, and why? Outline a plan for how you can cultivate it. 137. Reflect on a recent situation where you reacted in a way you’re not proud of. How could you handle similar situations better in the future? 138. Identify a skill you want to improve or learn. What steps can you take to advance in this area? 139. Think about a goal that seems out of reach. What are the small, actionable steps you can take toward achieving it? 140. Write about a time you stepped out of your comfort zone. What did you learn from the experience? 141. Consider your communication style. In what ways could you improve your communication with others? 142. What does work-life balance mean to you, and how can you better achieve it? 143. Identify an area of your life where you lack confidence. What are some ways you can work on building confidence in this area? 144. Reflect on your daily routines. What changes could make your routines more aligned with your goals for self-improvement? 145. Think about the people you surround yourself with. How do they influence your growth, and how can you foster relationships that support your self-improvement journey?

Learn more about journaling for self-improvement .

Journal Prompts for Goal Setting

Goal setting is a vital component of personal and professional growth. Journaling about your goals not only helps clarify what you truly want to achieve but also creates a commitment on paper that can motivate you to take action.

These prompts are designed to help you explore your ambitions, break them down into achievable steps, and confront any obstacles that might stand in your way. By reflecting through journaling, you’ll gain insights into your priorities, understand the resources you need, and devise a plan to make your goals a reality.

Whether your objectives are related to career, personal development, health, or relationships, these goal-setting prompts will empower you to articulate your vision and work towards it with purpose and clarity.

146. What are your top three goals for the next year, and why are they important to you? 147. Break down one of your main goals into smaller, manageable tasks. What’s the first step you can take this week? 148. Identify any potential challenges to achieving your goals. How can you overcome or mitigate these obstacles? 149. Reflect on a past goal you achieved. What strategies contributed to your success? 150. Consider your daily habits. Which habits support your goals, and which ones hinder them? 151. Write about someone who embodies the success you aspire to achieve. What qualities or actions of theirs can you emulate? 152. Think about the resources (time, money, knowledge, etc.) you need to achieve your goals. How can you acquire or optimize these resources? 153. Describe how achieving your goals will impact your life. How will it change the way you feel, think, or live? 154. Set a goal related to your personal well-being. How does improving your health, mindfulness, or happiness contribute to your other goals? 155. Reflect on the balance between your short-term and long-term goals. How can you ensure that pursuing one doesn’t detract from the other?

Creative Writing Journal Prompts

Creative writing prompts are a treasure trove for the imagination. They can serve as a springboard into worlds of fiction, poetry, and personal exploration. These prompts are designed to spark your creativity, challenge your writing skills, and encourage you to venture into uncharted territories of your mind.

Whether you’re battling writer’s block or simply looking for a new writing adventure, these prompts will help you weave stories, craft characters, and express your most imaginative ideas.

156. Write a letter from a character living in a dystopian world to someone in the past. 157. Describe a city where the main mode of transport is via rooftops. 158. Invent a dialogue between the moon and the sun about the earth. 159. Create a story about a secret society that protects an ancient magic. 160. Write from the perspective of a tree witnessing centuries of history. 161. Imagine a world where dreams are currency. How does society operate? 162. Craft a tale about a character who can communicate with animals. 163. Describe a journey on a train that travels through different dimensions. 164. Invent a story about a library where every book contains a different universe. 165. Write a monologue for a character who discovers they have a supernatural ability on their 21st birthday.

Dream Journal Prompts

Dream journaling can give a fascinating glimpse into the subconscious mind. It provides valuable insights into our deepest thoughts, fears, and desires.

These prompts are crafted to help you capture and explore the vivid tapestry of your dreams, encouraging reflection on their meanings and connections to your waking life. Whether you’re looking to understand recurring dreams, decode symbolic messages, or simply appreciate the creativity of your subconscious, these prompts will guide you through the process of recording and interpreting your nocturnal adventures.

166. Describe a dream you had recently in as much detail as possible. What stood out to you the most? 167. Write about a recurring dream. What elements are consistent, and how do you feel about them? 168. Reflect on a dream that made you feel happy or peaceful. What do you think it signifies? 169. Analyze a nightmare or disturbing dream. What fears or anxieties might it be connected to? 170. Recall a dream involving people you know. How did their presence affect the dream’s outcome? 171. Describe a dream location that felt significant. Why do you think this setting appeared? 172. Write about a dream where you learned something new or gained insight. What was the lesson? 173. Recall a dream that was particularly vivid. What sensory details can you remember? 174. Reflect on a dream that seemed to offer a solution to a problem. How did it approach the issue? 175. Describe a dream that involved an unusual or impossible event. How did you react within the dream?

Relationship Journal Prompts

Relationship journaling is a reflective practice that focuses on exploring the dynamics, challenges, and joys of interpersonal connections. Whether it’s with a partner, family member, friend, or even oneself, these prompts aim to deepen understanding, foster empathy, and encourage meaningful communication.

By reflecting on your relationships through these guided questions, you’ll gain insights into your emotional needs, communication styles, and the ways in which you give and receive love, ultimately nurturing stronger, healthier bonds.

176. Reflect on a relationship that has significantly impacted your life. What lessons have you learned from it? 177. Describe a moment of deep connection you experienced with someone. What made it memorable? 178. Write about a time you felt misunderstood by someone important to you. How did you address it? 179. Consider a relationship where you feel most yourself. What aspects of it make you feel seen and valued? 180. Think about a recent conflict in a relationship. What was the root cause, and how was it resolved? 181. Identify a pattern you’ve noticed in your relationships. How has it affected your connections? 182. Reflect on the ways you express love and affection. Do you feel they are well received? 183. Write about the role trust plays in your relationships. How do you build and maintain it? 184. Consider a relationship that has changed over time. What factors contributed to its evolution? 185. Think about a time you had to set boundaries in a relationship. How did it affect the relationship?

“What If” Journal Prompts

‘What if’ journaling unleashes the power of imagination and exploration, challenging you to think beyond the boundaries of your current reality. These prompts invite you to ponder alternative scenarios, hypothetical situations, and roads not taken, offering a creative space to explore your thoughts, fears, desires, and dreams.

By engaging with these ‘what if’ questions, you’ll stretch your cognitive and emotional boundaries, uncovering new insights about yourself and the possibilities that lie just beyond the horizon of the known.

186. What if you could communicate with animals? How would this change your perspective on the natural world? 187. What if you had the ability to time travel? Which era would you visit first and why? 188. What if you woke up tomorrow with a new talent? What would it be, and how would you use it? 189. What if you could live anywhere in the world? Describe your ideal location and why it appeals to you. 190. What if you had the chance to start over in a new career? What would you choose and why? 191. What if you could meet one historical figure? Who would it be and what would you ask them? 192. What if you found out you had a superpower? What would you want it to be and how would you use it? 193. What if you could change one event from your past? What would it be and how do you think it would alter your present? 194. What if you had one year left to live? How would you make the most of your time? 195. What if you could bring one fictional character to life? Who would it be and what would you do together?

New Year Journal Prompts

The New Year stands as a beacon of fresh starts and new beginnings, offering a moment to reflect on the past and set intentions for the future.

These journal prompts are designed to guide you through this period of reflection and goal setting, encouraging you to consider what you’ve learned, how you’ve grown, and what you aspire to achieve in the coming year.

By experimenting with these prompts, you’ll craft a vision for your future that’s aligned with your values, hopes, and dreams, setting the stage for a year of growth, achievement, and personal fulfillment.

196. Reflect on the most significant lessons you learned last year. How will they influence your actions in the New Year? 197. Identify three goals you achieved last year. What did these accomplishments teach you about yourself? 198. Consider the challenges you faced. How have they prepared you for what lies ahead? 199. Write about a moment from the past year that you’re particularly proud of. Why does it stand out? 200. Think about a habit you’d like to develop or break this year. What plan can you put in place to succeed? 201. Describe a relationship that changed for you last year. What do you hope for this relationship in the New Year? 202. Reflect on an unfulfilled goal from last year. How can you approach it differently now? 203. Imagine your ideal day at the end of this year. What does it look like, and what steps do you need to take to make it a reality? 204. Choose a word or theme to guide your year. Why does this resonate with you, and how can it shape your choices? 205. Think about the areas of your life where you want to grow. How can you foster growth in these areas throughout the year?

Shadow Work Journal Prompts

Shadow work journaling is a practice aimed at exploring the hidden parts of yourself — those aspects that you might shy away from or that remain unconscious. Very similar to reflective journaling.

It’s about bringing to light the parts of your psyche that influence your reactions, relationships, and self-perception in ways you might not be fully aware of. These prompts are designed to gently guide you into this introspective journey, helping you confront and integrate these shadow aspects to achieve greater self-awareness, healing, and wholeness.

By working with these prompts, you’ll embark on a path of deep self-discovery, unlocking a more authentic and empowered version of yourself.

206. What emotions do you find most difficult to accept in yourself, and why? 207. Reflect on a recurring pattern in your relationships. What might this reveal about your shadow self? 208. Consider a trait you dislike in others. How might this trait be a reflection of something within you? 209. Write about a time you felt shame. What was the underlying belief about yourself that triggered this feeling? 210. Think about a fear that holds you back. What is its root, and how does it influence your choices? 211. Describe an aspect of your personality you often hide from others. Why do you feel the need to conceal it? 212. Reflect on a moment of anger. What deeper feelings or unmet needs were underlying this reaction? 213. Identify a dream or ambition you’ve suppressed. What part of you have you denied by not pursuing this? 214. Write about a time you projected your feelings onto someone else. What were you avoiding facing in yourself? 215. Consider the roles you play in your life (e.g., parent, partner, friend). Which parts of yourself do you suppress or amplify in these roles, and why?

Learn more about shadow work journaling .

Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear

Journaling about our fears provides a unique opportunity to confront and understand the anxieties that often hold us back from pursuing our dreams and living fully.

Through these prompts, you can explore the nature of your fears, their origins, and the impact they have on your life. This process should empower you to face your fears with courage and resilience, transforming them from obstacles into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Whether your fears are rooted in past experiences, future uncertainties, or self-doubt, these prompts will guide you through a journey of healing and liberation.

216. Identify a fear that’s been holding you back. What is it, and why do you think it has such power over you? 217. Write about a time you faced a fear and overcame it. What did you learn from that experience? 218. Consider the worst-case scenario of a fear you have. How likely is it to happen, and how could you cope with it if it did? 219. Reflect on the origins of one of your fears. Can you trace it back to a specific event or moment in your life? 220. Imagine your life without this fear. How would things be different? What opportunities might open up for you? 221. List the physical and emotional sensations you experience when you feel afraid. How can recognizing these signs help you manage your fear? 222. Think about the advice you would give a friend facing a similar fear. How can you apply this advice to your own situation? 223. Write a letter to your fear. What would you want to tell it about how it affects your life and decisions? 224. Identify steps you can take to gradually confront and overcome your fear. What’s one small action you can take today? 225. Reflect on the role of fear in your life. How has it shaped you, and how can you reshape your relationship with fear moving forward?

Journal Prompts for Dealing with Loss

Dealing with loss is deeply personal and challenging. It’s marked by a wide range of emotions from sadness and anger to acceptance and peace. Journaling through this process can offer an outlet for your feelings and help you to explore and articulate your grief, remember and honor your loved one, and gradually find a way forward.

These prompts are designed to guide you gently through the landscape of loss, providing a space for reflection, healing, and connection to the memories of those you’ve lost.

Whether you’re mourning a person, a relationship, a dream, or any other significant loss, these questions aim to support your path to understanding and resilience.

226. Write about a cherished memory you have of the person or thing you’ve lost. What details stand out most to you? 227. Reflect on what this loss has taught you about love, life, and yourself. 228. Describe the emotions you’re experiencing. Do they change day by day, or even moment by moment? 229. What is the hardest part of the day for you since experiencing your loss? How do you cope with it? 230. If you could say one more thing to the person you’ve lost, what would it be? 231. Write about a dream or aspiration you had that is connected to your loss. How can you adapt or honor this dream now? 232. Consider the ways in which you’ve changed since your loss. What insights have you gained? 233. Reflect on the support system you have during this time. How have others shown you love and care? 234. If you’re feeling a sense of guilt or regret, write about it. What would it take to forgive yourself or find peace? 235. Imagine a future where you’ve found a way to carry your loss with grace. What does that look like, and what steps can you take to move towards that vision?

Journal Prompts for Discerning and Decision Making

In the face of decisions, big or small, journaling can be a powerful tool to clarify your thoughts, values, and priorities.

These prompts are designed to guide you through the process of discernment, encouraging you to explore all facets of your decision-making process.

From understanding your deepest desires to recognizing potential obstacles and outcomes, these questions aim to illuminate the path ahead, providing you with the insight and confidence needed to take the next step.

236. Describe the decision you’re facing and why it feels significant to you. 237. List the pros and cons associated with this decision. Do any stand out as particularly important? 238. Reflect on how this decision aligns with your long-term goals and values. Is there harmony or conflict? 239. Consider the best-case scenario if you make this decision. What does success look like? 240. Now, consider the worst-case scenario. What are the potential challenges, and how might you overcome them? 241. Think about the advice you would give a friend in a similar situation. How does this perspective inform your own decision? 242. Write about any fears or anxieties you have regarding this decision. How can you address these feelings? 243. Imagine looking back on this decision a year from now. What outcome would make you feel most satisfied? 244. Identify the resources (people, information, financial, etc.) you need to make an informed decision. How can you access them? 245. Reflect on a past decision that you’re proud of. What insights from that experience can you apply to your current situation?

Travel Journal Prompts

Travel journaling captures the essence of adventure, allowing you to document not just the places you visit, but the emotions, insights, and transformations that occur along the way.

These prompts are designed to enrich your travel experience, encouraging you to observe more closely, reflect deeply, and appreciate the nuances of your journey.

Whether you’re exploring a new city, immersing yourself in a different culture, or simply enjoying a change of scenery, these questions will help you create a vivid, meaningful record of your adventures.

246. Describe your first impressions upon arriving at a new destination. What stood out to you? 247. Write about a conversation you had with a local or fellow traveler. What did you learn from it? 248. Reflect on a moment that took you out of your comfort zone. How did you feel before, during, and after? 249. Capture a day in detail, from the sights and sounds to the tastes and smells. What made this day memorable? 250. Discuss a cultural aspect or tradition you observed. How does it compare to your own culture or practices? 251. Think about a landscape or scene that left you in awe. What emotions did it evoke? 252. Describe an unexpected challenge you faced during your travels. How did you overcome it? 253. Write about a moment of realization or personal growth experienced during your trip. What triggered it? 254. Share a story about a place that felt particularly magical or special to you. Why did it strike such a chord? 255. Reflect on your journey as a whole. How has it influenced your perspective or changed you?

Fun Journal Prompts

Journaling doesn’t always have to be serious or introspective; it can also be a source of joy, creativity, and playfulness.

These fun journal prompts are designed to lighten the mood, spark your imagination, and bring a smile to your face. Dive in and let your creativity run wild, reminding yourself that sometimes, the simple act of writing can be an adventure in itself.

256. Invent a superhero with an unusual power. What is their story? 257. Write a letter to your future self 10 years from now. What do you hope to tell them? 258. Describe your dream vacation if money and time were no object. Where would you go, and what would you do? 259. Imagine you’ve won a shopping spree in any store. Which store would it be, and what would you grab first? 260. Create a menu for your perfect meal, including appetizers, main courses, desserts, and drinks. 261. If you could talk to animals, which animal would you chat with first, and what would you ask? 262. Draft a silly poem about your day, emphasizing the humorous or absurd moments. 263. Think of a movie title for the story of your life. What genre would it be? 264. If you could switch lives with any fictional character for a day, who would it be and why? 265. Describe an invention that would make your life easier or more fun. How would it work?

Brooks Manley

Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

Here’s my favorite journal for 2024: 

Gratitude Journal Prompts Mindfulness Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Anxiety Reflective Journal Prompts Healing Journal Prompts Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Journal Prompts Mental Health Journal Prompts ASMR Journal Prompts Manifestation Journal Prompts Self-Care Journal Prompts Morning Journal Prompts Evening Journal Prompts Self-Improvement Journal Prompts Creative Writing Journal Prompts Dream Journal Prompts Relationship Journal Prompts "What If" Journal Prompts New Year Journal Prompts Shadow Work Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear Journal Prompts for Dealing with Loss Journal Prompts for Discerning and Decision Making Travel Journal Prompts Fun Journal Prompts

The 17 Best Guided Journals for 2024 and Beyond

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ThinkWritten

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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100 Magical Journal Prompts for Creative Inspiration

Discover some creative journal prompts for inspiration, free PDF printable included!

Whimsical, sparkly, and slightly magical, the journal prompts in this blog post were created as fun creative journaling exercises. They include a healthy mix of reality and fantasy.

Use these creative journal prompts as starting points for personal journaling, creative writing, or art journaling projects. Write, draw, doodle, or paint your answers and ideas in your journal or sketchbook. Or simply read through for a relaxing and entertaining break.

These magical journal prompts are meant to be enjoyed and shared. Find the PDF printable version at the end!

**This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you for products you purchase via this website. For more information  click here. **

100 Creative Journal Prompts for Inspiration

1. What is the best beach or lake day you can remember?

2. Describe your ideal picnic lunch.  

3. What flowers are in your bouquet?

4. 5 Silly ways to pass the time during a snowstorm.

5. A little bit about yourself as a cat.

6. The best place you ever dined.

7. 3 Different directions you can go at a cross in the woods on a sunny day.

8. Describe or draw the adorable cartoon mouse eating your favorite cheese.

9. How many layers to your ice cream sandwich? Describe or draw each one.

10. 5 Pretty things which are faux patent leather.

11. What are the best ways to eat chocolate?

12. Your unicorn’s special magic.

13. Describe the most beautiful home you’ve ever visited.

14. Bunnies can communicate with you telepathically. What are they saying?

15. All the fruits in your fruit salad:

16. Shiney, hand-forged copper pots for _____.

17. Your favorite books of all time:

18. 10 Things you could use as snowshoes in a pinch.

19. 5 Reasons to smile.

20. 10 Sparkling silver objects:

21. The scroll indicates you have been bequeathed _____.

22. 5 Unusual places to discover magic glitter:

23. List 10 new places to visit in the next 3 years.

24. How would you decorate your tiny home?

25. Design your own tree including what would grow on it.

26. Favorite ways to spend a quiet afternoon?

27. Describe the soil, grass, trees, flowers, and rocks in your magical forest.

28. What animals are sunbathing on the big flat rock?

29. Write what your tarot cards would reveal to you now.

30. List or draw your favorite sea creatures.

31. What is brewing in your pot?

32. You have 21 individual zippered pockets on your suitcase because:

33. Describe your pet avatar.

34. The lyrics which move most you are:

35. 10 Purple party themes.

36. Describe or draw your future wardrobe.

37. The best compliment you can think to give.

38. You’re only a few steps away from _____.

39. 5 Scientific advancements you’re grateful for.

40. What should you be famous for?

41. What would you tell someone from the mid-1800s about today, if you could travel back in time?

42. List 10 gelly things.

43. Your favorite kinds of pools.

44. Someone once wisely told you _____.

45. 5 Places you’d like to zip line through.

46. What are the best sauces in the world?

47. Make 4 predictions for 4 years from now:

48. What do you think animals say about humans?

49. If you could fill in the blank with anything, it would be _____.

50. What do you love to read?

51. Describe 4 magical elements to represent wind, water, fire, and earth.

52. Write a haiku about nature.

53. 5 Objects made out of crystal.

54. Best types of cuisine around the world.

55. Name 10 new ways to be creative you haven’t tried.

56. Write or design your family crest if you were to have one.

57. Which songs would your cover band play?

58. Best things about the desert.

59. You have a magical umbrella which can _____.

60. Your favorite time of day and why.

61. You’re surprised by how handy _____ is coming in.

62. 5 People you’d be excited to have to knock on your door.

63. What just tickled your nose and made you sneeze?

64. 5 Unforgettable moments.

65. Best places for a moonlit stroll.

66. Describe the best kiss you’ve ever had.

67. Describe the life of a Sprite.

68. 5 Reasons to celebrate with Champagne and/or strawberry shortcake.

69. Where are you wearing your huge floppy sun hat?

70. 5 Pleasant surprises.

71. Your 5 favorite things to do on a rainy day.

72. Delicate layers of _____.

73. Grant three blessings for three loved ones.

74. 5 Best public places.

75. Where would you go on your (unlimited by money or time) RV adventure?

76. What is your favorite thing about summer? Fall? Winter? Spring?

77. 10 Terrific free prize ideas for inside your cereal box.

78. 3 Places you feel at home.

79. 5 Interesting art projects to try .

80. Favorite time periods in history.

81. Favorite artists, musicians, writers, or gurus you’d like to apprentice with (alive or dead.)

82. 5 People you are most grateful for.

83. 10 Things you think are possible to achieve this year.

84. Favorite childhood movies.

85. Favorite geological features on earth.

86. 10 Places fairies might live.

87. 10 Gifts you’d like to receive

88. What tea would be in your magical tea cabinet?

89. 3 Places you’d teleport today if you could.

90. 3 Things that have made you jump for joy.

91. The best places to ride a bike.

92. Invent the best pool float you can imagine.

93. What would your fairy name be?

94. 3 Favorite quotes about life.

95. 5 Coolest places to be on New Year’s Eve.

96. What do you wish you could magically make happen at the snap of a finger?

97. 10 Things that are frivolous yet fabulous.

98. Favorite country living activities.

99. Best foods t eat in a hammock.

100. What wonderful surprise awaits?

PDF Printable creative journal prompts

You can grab the fun and magical journal prompts worksheet below. Simply download the PDF, print, and use it whenever you feel like writing something creative and whimsical!

Creative journal prompts printable worksheet

Concluding thoughts

I hope you enjoyed these fun and creative journal prompts for writing inspiration.

Subscribe to Dream Dash Journal for articles on writing, creativity, art, spirituality, lifestyle, and more journal prompts directly to your inbox! Grab the freebie below!

You may also enjoy: 

How to Make a Goals Journal {+ Free Printable Journal Prompts!}

17 Dreamy Tropical Paradise Quotes to Inspire You

65 “You Are Amazing” Quotes for Encouragement {+ Printable Cards!}

30 Free Art Printables -Black & White Plus Color {Cute and Modern!}

Kristen Tudeen is the founder of Dream Dash Journal and has worked as a lifestyle blogger since 2018. She enjoys inspiring others to explore their spirituality and creative interests.

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WEEKLY WRITING PROMPTS

Join (probably?) the world's largest writing contest. Flex those creative muscles with weekly writing prompts.

Showing 2149 prompts

Write a story that includes someone saying, “be careful what you wish for.”.

LIVE – Character

Make a character’s obsession or addiction an important element of your story.

Write a story in which one of the characters is a narcissist., write about a character who struggles to do the right thing., start your story with a character being followed..

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🏆 Featuring 12 prize-winning stories from our community. Download it now for FREE .

Your protagonist is a voracious reader. Lately, they’ve been noticing odd synchronicities in the books he or she is reading. What does the protagonist discover is happening?

Dream up a secret library. write a story about an adventurer who discovers it. what’s in the library why was it kept secret, write a story about a future academic (or another influential person) “rediscovering” a book that, in its time, was dismissed. the book can be fictitious or real., your protagonist is a writer who discovers a new favorite author. how does their writing, or even their own personality, change as the protagonist falls under the writer’s influence, write a story about discovering a lost manuscript. it can be from a famous (or infamous) author, or an unknown one., subscribe to our prompts newsletter.

Never miss a prompt! Get curated writing inspiration delivered to your inbox each week.

Your teacher tasks you with writing a story based on an eavesdropped conversation. When the story is published, your subject isn’t happy.

A character overhears something at a black-tie event that puts the night in jeopardy., write a story in which someone can only hear one side of a conversation and must piece together the meaning of what they’ve heard., write a story about a child overhearing something they don’t understand., write a story in which someone is afraid of being overheard., write a story about a character driving and getting lost., write a story about a tennis match between two rivals., write a story that begins with someone dancing in a bar., write a story around someone (literally) bumping into someone else., write a story about a character running late for a job interview., win $250 in our short story competition 🏆.

We'll send you 5 prompts each week. Respond with your short story and you could win $250!

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Creative Writing Prompts

When the idea to start a weekly newsletter with writing inspiration first came to us, we decided that we wanted to do more than provide people with topics to write about. We wanted to try and help authors form a regular writing habit and also give them a place to proudly display their work. So we started the weekly Creative Writing Prompts newsletter. Since then, Prompts has grown to a community of more than 450,000 authors, complete with its own literary magazine, Prompted .  

Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted on our Reedsy Prompts page.

Interested in participating in our short story contest? Sign up here for more information! Or you can check out our full Terms of Use and our FAQ page .

Why we love creative writing prompts

If you've ever sat in front of a computer or notebook and felt the urge to start creating worlds, characters, and storylines — all the while finding yourself unable to do so — then you've met the author's age-old foe: writer's block. There's nothing more frustrating than finding the time but not the words to be creative. Enter our directory! If you're ready to kick writer's block to the curb and finally get started on your short story or novel, these unique story ideas might just be your ticket.

This list of 1800+ creative writing prompts has been created by the Reedsy team to help you develop a rock-solid writing routine. As all aspiring authors know, this is the #1 challenge — and solution! — for reaching your literary goals. Feel free to filter through different genres, which include...

Dramatic — If you want to make people laugh and cry within the same story, this might be your genre.

Funny — Whether satire or slapstick, this is an opportunity to write with your funny bone.

Romance — One of the most popular commercial genres out there. Check out these story ideas out if you love writing about love.

Fantasy — The beauty of this genre is that the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Dystopian – Explore the shadowy side of human nature and contemporary technology in dark speculative fiction.

Mystery — From whodunnits to cozy mysteries, it's time to bring out your inner detective.

Thriller and Suspense — There's nothing like a page-turner that elicits a gasp of surprise at the end.

High School — Encourage teens to let their imaginations run free.

Want to submit your own story ideas to help inspire fellow writers? Send them to us here.

After you find the perfect story idea

Finding inspiration is just one piece of the puzzle. Next, you need to refine your craft skills — and then display them to the world. We've worked hard to create resources that help you do just that! Check them out:

• How to Write a Short Story That Gets Published — a free, ten-day course by Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who runs a book editing company in Brooklyn.
• Best Literary Magazines of 2023 — a directory of 100+ reputable magazines that accept unsolicited submissions.
• Writing Contests in 2023 — the finest contests of 2021 for fiction and non-fiction authors of short stories, poetry, essays, and more.

Beyond creative writing prompts: how to build a writing routine

While writing prompts are a great tactic to spark your creative sessions, a writer generally needs a couple more tools in their toolbelt when it comes to developing a rock-solid writing routine . To that end, here are a few more additional tips for incorporating your craft into your everyday life.

• NNWT. Or, as book coach Kevin Johns calls it , “Non-Negotiable Writing Time.” This time should be scheduled into your routine, whether that’s once a day or once a week. Treat it as a serious commitment, and don’t schedule anything else during your NNWT unless it’s absolutely necessary.
• Set word count goals. And make them realistic! Don’t start out with lofty goals you’re unlikely to achieve. Give some thought to how many words you think you can write a week, and start there. If you find you’re hitting your weekly or daily goals easily, keep upping the stakes as your craft time becomes more ingrained in your routine.
• Talk to friends and family about the project you’re working on. Doing so means that those close to you are likely to check in about the status of your piece — which in turn keeps you more accountable.

Arm yourself against writer’s block. Writer’s block will inevitably come, no matter how much story ideas initially inspire you. So it’s best to be prepared with tips and tricks you can use to keep yourself on track before the block hits. You can find 20 solid tips here — including how to establish a relationship with your inner critic and apps that can help you defeat procrastination or lack of motivation.

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Adventure Writing Prompts ⭢

Angst Writing Prompts ⭢

Character Writing Prompts ⭢

Christmas Writing Prompts ⭢

Dark Writing Prompts ⭢

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Kids Writing Prompts ⭢

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100 Creative Journal Prompts That You Must Try This Year

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Table of Contents

100 amazing journal prompts for creativity

I am so excited to dive into today’s blog post because we’re delving into one of my absolute favorite topics: creative journal prompts!

Journaling has been an incredible journey for me on the path of personal growth, and I can’t wait to share some unique and inspiring prompts with you.

You know, sometimes life can get a bit overwhelming, and we all need a little nudge to tap into our creativity and reflect on our experiences.

That’s where these journal prompts come in. They’re not just about writing; they’re about exploring your thoughts, feelings, and dreams in a way that feels like a cozy chat with your best friend.

Get ready to unlock new perspectives, spark your creativity, and, most importantly, have fun on this beautiful journey of personal growth.

This post may contain affiliate links. That is, if you click on a link and buy something I recommend, I will receive a small compensation at no additional cost to you.

25 creative self-discovery prompts

• What values are most important to you, and how do they influence your decisions?
• Describe a moment from your past that significantly shaped your identity.
• If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what advice would you give?
• List five activities that bring you pure joy and fulfillment.
• Reflect on a challenging experience. What did it teach you about yourself?
• Imagine you have a day entirely to yourself. How would you spend it?
• Identify a fear or limiting belief. How can you overcome or challenge it?
• What role does gratitude play in your life, and how can you practice it more?
• Recall a compliment that deeply resonated with you. What does it reveal about your values?
• Consider three people you admire. What qualities in them resonate with you?
• Explore a book or movie that had a profound impact on your perspective. What insights did you gain?
• Describe a moment when you felt completely in sync with your surroundings. What were you doing?

• If you could master any skill, what would it be, and how would it enhance your life?
• Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses. How can you leverage your strengths and work on your weaknesses?
• List three short-term and three long-term goals. What steps can you take to achieve them?
• How do you handle stress, and what strategies can you adopt to manage it better?
• In what ways can you prioritize self-care in your daily life?
• What does success mean to you, and how has this definition evolved over time?
• Describe an experience that forced you out of your comfort zone. What did you learn from it?
• If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, and why?
• Reflect on a mistake you made recently. How did you grow from it?
• What is a hobby or interest you’ve always wanted to explore? How will you start?
• List three things you appreciate about your body and mind.
• Consider your relationships. Are there any that need nurturing or boundaries?
• Imagine you have achieved your biggest life goal. What does your life look like, and how did you get there?

25 creative personal growth prompts

• Identify a negative thought pattern. How can you reframe it into a positive mindset?
• What daily habits contribute to your overall well-being, and how can you enhance them?
• Reflect on a recent setback. How did you overcome it, and what did you learn?
• In what ways can you broaden your perspective on a topic you’re passionate about?
• List three areas in your life where you can set healthy boundaries.
• How do you handle criticism, and what can you learn from constructive feedback?
• Explore a new skill or hobby that challenges you. What excites you about learning it?
• If you could change one thing about your current routine, what would it be, and why?
• Identify a goal that aligns with your values. How can you break it down into actionable steps?
• Reflect on a personal mantra or affirmation that motivates you. How can you incorporate it daily?
• Consider a past success. What strengths did you leverage, and how can you apply them again?
• Explore a different cultural perspective. How might it influence your worldview?

• Describe a moment when you felt proud of your personal growth. What led to that feeling?
• In what ways can you prioritize mental health in your daily life?
• List three habits you want to cultivate to enhance your overall well-being.
• Consider your role models. What qualities do they possess that you want to develop?
• Reflect on a decision you’ve been procrastinating on. What steps can you take to move forward?
• What is a skill you want to refine, and how can you practice and improve it?
• Explore a topic you know little about. How can you educate yourself on it?
• If you could meet anyone, living or deceased, who would it be, and what would you ask them?
• Take a photo of something in your surroundings and create a short story inspired by it.
• List three random objects. Find a way to incorporate them into a unique piece of art.
• Experiment with a new form of creative expression, such as poetry or digital art.
• Imagine you’re a character in a fantasy world. Describe your adventures and discoveries.
• Create a vision board that represents your aspirations and goals for the future.

25 creativity prompts

• Write a letter to your future self, expressing your hopes and dreams.
• Invent a fictional character and explore their background, personality, and journey.
• If you could redesign your living space entirely, what would it look like, and why?
• Explore a color palette that resonates with your current emotions. Create a piece of art using these colors.
• Design a personal logo or symbol that represents who you are and what you stand for.
• Write a short story with a twist ending that surprises even you.
• Take a walk in nature and document the sounds, smells, and sights. Use these observations in a creative project.
• Create a playlist that reflects different aspects of your personality and emotions. Write down these songs.
• Pick a historical event and reimagine it with a fictional twist. How does the altered event unfold?
• Experiment with a different genre of music, literature, or film that you haven’t explored before. Write about your experience.
• Photograph a mundane object from various angles to discover its hidden beauty. Describe it.
• Write a poem inspired by a strong emotion you’re currently experiencing.

• Choose a famous painting or artwork and reinterpret it in your unique style.
• Create a short film or animation that tells a story without using any dialogue.
• Design a board game that represents the journey of life. What challenges and rewards would players encounter?
• Write a letter to your favorite fictional character, asking them for advice or sharing your thoughts.
• Experiment with a new recipe or cooking technique. How does the process inspire creativity?
• Design a tattoo that holds personal significance and meaning for you.
• Choose a word at random and create a piece of art that represents its essence.
• Imagine a world where time travel is possible. How would it impact society, and what adventures would unfold?
• Create a collage using images and words that resonate with your current state of mind.
• Write a dialogue between two inanimate objects, giving them personalities and motivations.
• Paint or draw a scene from a dream you vividly remember.
• Record a spoken-word piece expressing your thoughts and emotions on a particular topic.
• Create a mind map representing your goals, aspirations, and the steps needed to achieve them.

25 creative self-love prompts

• List three things you appreciate about your physical appearance.
• Reflect on a compliment you received recently. What positive qualities does it acknowledge?
• Write a love letter to yourself, expressing gratitude for who you are and what you’ve overcome.
• List five activities that bring you a sense of peace and contentment.
• Identify a negative self-talk pattern. How can you replace it with more positive affirmations?
• Take a day to pamper yourself. What self-care activities would you include?
• In what ways can you set healthy boundaries to prioritize your well-being?
• What achievements are you proud of, and how have they contributed to your growth?
• List three things you love about your personality and character.
• Reflect on a challenge you faced. How did your resilience shine through?
• Consider a difficult decision you made. What strengths did you display in the process?
• Write down your favorite qualities that make you a good friend or partner.

• List three self-love affirmations that resonate with you. Repeat them daily.
• Reflect on your accomplishments, big or small. How have they shaped your self-perception?
• Take a moment to appreciate your body for all it allows you to do and experience.
• Write a letter to your future self, expressing confidence in your continued growth.
• Identify a hobby or activity that brings you joy purely for the sake of enjoyment.
• Celebrate a recent success, no matter how small. How will you reward yourself?
• List three self-care practices that rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.
• In what ways can you express gratitude for your uniqueness and individuality?
• Reflect on your support system. How have they contributed to your self-love journey?
• Take a self-portrait and appreciate the beauty in your unique features.
• Consider your favorite self-care rituals. How can you incorporate them more consistently?
• Identify and challenge a negative belief about yourself. Replace it with a positive affirmation.
• Write down your dreams and aspirations. How can you support yourself in achieving them?

What are creative journal prompts, and why should I use them?

Creative journal prompts are like magical keys that unlock the door to your inner world, inviting you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and dreams in a uniquely expressive way.

They’re the spark that ignites your creativity and nudges you to reflect on your experiences with a fresh perspective.

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I bother with creative journal prompts?” Well, let me share a little secret: they’re like a compass for your personal growth journey .

Here’s the thing: life can be a whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and beautiful moments, and sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos.

Creative journal prompts act as your personal guide , helping you navigate through the layers of your mind and heart.

They encourage self-discovery, allowing you to tap into your innermost thoughts and uncover aspects of yourself you may not have consciously explored before.

Think of it as a conversation with yourself, a chance to pause, reflect, and connect with the incredible person you are becoming.

These prompts invite you to express your thoughts in a way that feels like a warm embrace, making the journaling process not just insightful but also immensely enjoyable.

Will you use any of these creative journal prompts?

I consider myself an expert when it comes to positive affirmations, journaling, and inspirational quotes. My blog is all about spreading good vibes and helping you feel awesome! I’ve got loads of cool stuff for you to explore, like uplifting affirmations that can boost your confidence, fun journal prompts to spark your creativity, and inspiring quotes to motivate you every day. Let’s embark on this amazing journey together as we discover more about ourselves, uncover our hidden strengths, and create a life that’s full of happiness and success.

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750+ Journal Prompts to Inspire and Motivate You

Posted on Published: March 3, 2021  - Last updated: June 19, 2022

Home » Journaling » 750+ Journal Prompts to Inspire and Motivate You

Journal prompts for a variety of journaling exercises to motivate and inspire you to put pen to paper. If you’re stuck for things to write in a journal, this mega list will keep you going every day for more than a year!

What You'll Find On This Page...

More Than 750 Journal Prompts to Inspire You

Being immersed in a cathartic activity is hugely valuable to mental wellbeing.

What I love about journaling is how it facilitates getting into a state of flow , for me at least.

Once my pen touches that paper – or, more often lately because I do so much work online, my fingers touch those keys – I’m fully absorbed in the task.

Being so immersed in an activity you enjoy, especially one that is also cathartic, is hugely valuable and as far as I’m concerned, the best way to take care of your mental wellbeing.

Having those little notes to fall back on is invaluable, giving me direction when I need it.

Once I’m engaged, the words flow – no pun intended – almost without conscious thought; I’m so focused that I can be lost for hours, only resurfacing when I suddenly realise I’m ravenous or cold. It’s very rare once I’m mid-process that I lose track or find myself uncertain about what to write next.

…But sometimes it can be tricky simply to know what things to write in a journal, impeding getting started.

I’m sure it’s due to the sheer scale of possibilities, and the longer I do this (blog and journal) the more I find myself keeping notes of what I want to work on when I find time. Having those little notes to fall back on is invaluable, giving me direction when I need it.

Prompts for journaling are not intended to influence what you write, so much as to ensure that you write something .

Having something to refer to for inspiration when you’re overwhelmed with options has been so beneficial for me that I’ve put together this master resource of journal writing prompts to help you when you’re in the same boat.

Over 750 Journal Writing Prompts For Beginners and Seasoned Writers

I hope you’ll enjoy this mega list of journal prompts for beginners and seasoned writers alike. You’ll find a huge selection of creative writing prompts and new ideas for when you have writer’s block, as well as a selection of art prompts.

Don’t forget to check out our resources library, full of printables exclusively for subscribers!

850+ Journal Prompts to Inspire and Motivate!

Journaling on a regular basis is a wonderful way to look after your wellbeing , especially if you have any mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety.

Below is a huge variety of thought-provoking positive journal prompts and journaling exercises to spark inspiration and encourage you to put pen to paper in positive ways.

With so many different categories of journaling prompts, there's something here for everyone - every day of the year!

63 Journal Questions & Activities For Beginners & Seasoned Writers

A list of prompts for anyone new to journaling or bullet journaling, comprising not only written prompts, but also creative and organisational pages often associated with bujo.

212 Daily Gratitude List Ideas For Your Journal

One of my absolute favourites, and something I try to keep as a staple whenever I’m journaling.

Keeping a gratitude list is vital to maintaining my positivity, but if I’ve had a bad day it can be a little harder to write out my list without falling back to the things that are  always  top of my list, such as the most important people in my life.

Gratitude lists can also be a great way to tune into the present moment and practice mindfulness, by focusing on each of your senses and why you're thankful for the rich experiences they allow you to enjoy.

These ideas will give you some inspiration for creating your own gratitude lists.

56 Gratitude Journaling Questions to Embrace the Joy of Little Things

If I want to be more creative when it comes to gratitude journaling, then having some prompts is a great way to get me thinking outside of the box, while still spending time actively appreciating the good in your life.

These gratitude journal questions are ideal for this purpose.

79+ Journaling Questions For Personal Growth, Self-Love, & Self-Discovery

I’m a big fan of self-analysis, and these kinds of deep, probing questions can be very therapeutic and bring clarity when you’re feeling conflicted or confused. Journaling for personal growth and self discovery is a super powerful technique for:

• Self-awareness
• Self-reflection
• Self-compassion

Inner Child Journal Activities to Bring You Peace

Inner child work is so powerful and important for anybody who may have suffered childhood trauma. But if you’re new to the concept then it can be a daunting prospect.

In this post we explore the principles of reparenting, and then there's a selection of journal prompts for inner child healing for you to work through. Making peace with this area of your life is an incredibly valuable form of self-therapy.

55 Positivity Prompts For Journaling to Increase Your Happiness

If you want to write for the sheer joy of it, these journal prompts will help to steer you towards a more optimistic mindset.

Whether you're writing a bucket list or describing your perfect day, practicing positivity regularly is a really good way to boost your mood. In fact, it can actually rewire your brain, so you default to looking for the silver lining and experience greater happiness as a result!

81 Relationship Writing Prompts to Strengthen Your Connection

Journaling is powerful for personal mental health, but it can also be highly valuable for your relationships.

Try these couple's writing prompts to improve communication and reinforce your connection.

51 Addiction & Eating Disorder Recovery Questions For Your Journal

Whether you have an eating disorder or any other kind of addiction, these writing prompts are designed to support your healing journey.

Learn how journaling can benefit your recovery and get started today.

75 Writing Ideas For Shadow Work

If you’re feeling brave enough to get out of your comfort zone and do some intense work on yourself, then working on your shadow self is a fantastic practice to help you reconnect with your core values and realise your true potential.

This type of inner work is not easy. But if you’re committed to completing this challenging but very worthwhile self-therapy, these journal prompts will help you to stay you focused on working on your shadow self.

Get Creative With 100+ Art Journaling Prompts!

If you’re looking for some more fun ideas for your journal, these journaling art ideas will keep you busy! 

With over 100 cute bullet journal doodles and tutorials to choose from, there’s something for everyone and every season, and you’ll have plenty of inspiration to get creative.

99 Prompts to Get You Journaling Every Day

If you want to journal regularly but you’re not sure what to write about, here are 99 more ideas for daily journaling which can be used for:

• Morning journal prompts or morning pages
• Bedtime journal prompts for the end of the day
• Stream of consciousness prompts
• Prompts to write a short story
• Any other way you choose!

These suggestions are not focused on any particular subject, they’re simply daily prompts to help you get into the routine of journaling every day.

The post includes two PDF’s of the prompts for you to download and print off; one for you to work through at your own pace, and the other formatted to be easily cut up for creating a journal jar.

39+ Nightly Journal Prompts to Help You Sleep Better

A selection of prompts to help you process the day's events and prepare for the day ahead in a positive frame of mind.

Journal Prompts & Coping Skills Workbook For Teens

Check out this workbook review, dedicated to teaching teens coping skills through CBT, DBT, and journaling techniques.

Journaling Prompts FAQ

Have burning questions about journal writing? I’ve put together some of the most asked questions and answered them for you below.

1. What are prompts for journaling?

A journal prompt is a simple statement or question to provoke thought and focus, and ultimately to inspire you to put pen to paper.

Prompts for journaling are not intended to influence what you write, the important thing is simply that you write something , and prompts are designed for this purpose.

2. Should I use journaling prompts?

If you’re keen on the idea of personal growth and self-improvement ; if you want to find a healthy way to help manage anxiety, stress, or depression; or if you simply love writing – then you should absolutely use journaling prompts!

Having journal prompts to move you to write removes the pressure of that overwhelming blank page, and will help guide you towards your goal of a regular journaling habit.

3. How long is a journal prompt?

A journal prompt is usually a concise statement, perhaps with two or three related questions to motivate you to write.

However, while the prompts themselves tend to be short, your response/s should be as long as it takes to feel you’ve thoroughly and adequately put your thoughts down on paper.

Your journal is a safe space to purge everything, and your future self will thank you for it! Making journaling a daily habit is a fantastic way to invest in your wellbeing, whether you prefer to write:

• Short bullet point gratitude lists
• Complete sentences reminiscing about a happy memory
• Writing about your biggest challenge or a difficult situation
• Entries exorcising your greatest fear

In fact, the best thing about journaling is that you can change it up and use all of these different methods according to your mood and your needs.

4. What are some journal prompt examples?

While I try to keep the journal prompts on this blog as unique as possible so you can let your imagination run wild, some other popular journal ideas include writing about your:

• Favorite thing to do at the weekend
• Favorite book
• Memories you’ve made with family members or friends
• Favorite character in a show you’re currently watching
• Favorite color
• Most inspiring famous person you’d like to meet
• Favorite hobby
• First day of school
• Favorite season.

5. When is the best time to journal?

It can be hard to find time to journal regularly, especially when you’re new to the practice. I recommend making it one of your daily routines so that it quickly becomes second nature and is established as a new habit.

If you’re a morning person, you can choose to get your writer’s notebook or new journal out as soon as you wake up, or if you prefer to use it as a way to unwind at the end of a long day, you can make it one of your evening routines instead.

My best advice is to try setting time limits and aiming to write for the designated number of minutes each day.

6. Who are these journal prompts for?

Some of the prompts contained in this list are for adults, but many of those for beginners and related to positivity and gratitude are equally perfect for all ages, including children of all grade levels.

Happy writing!

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550+ Journal Prompts: The Ultimate List

Discover over 500 journal prompts to jump-start your journal writing and explore personal growth, daily reflection, and goal-setting..

• February 22, 2023

Home » Day One Blog » 550+ Journal Prompts: The Ultimate List

Journal prompts can be a great way to jump-start your journal writing and explore new and interesting topics. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced journaler, having a go-to library of journal prompts can help you build a more regular journaling practice and stay inspired and motivated as you keep a journal.

With this in mind, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of over 500 journal prompts to cover a wide range of topics and themes, from daily writing prompts to deeper questions that explore personal growth, foster self-reflection, creative expression, and even goal setting.

Whether you prefer to reflect on your daily life, set intentions for the future, or simply explore your thoughts and feelings in your journal, there’s something for everyone in this collection of journaling prompts. If you’re a beginner journaler looking for some guidance, or an experienced journaler seeking new inspiration, this list of journaling prompts is for you.

What are Journal Prompts?

Journal prompts are questions, suggestions, or ideas that can help inspire you to write in your personal journal .

For example, journaling prompts can be specific questions or statements that encourage you to reflect on a particular topic, theme, or aspect of your life. Journal prompts can also be general, and can be designed to help you explore a wide range of topics and experiences.

Journal prompts can be used in many different ways, and can be a valuable tool for beginners and experienced journalers alike. For beginners, prompts can help you get started with journaling, and can provide a starting point for your writing. For experienced journalers, prompts can help you explore new topics and experiences, and can provide a fresh perspective as you write a new journal entry .

Journal prompts are questions, suggestions, or ideas that can help inspire you to write in your journal. Journaling prompts can be specific questions or statements that encourage you to reflect on a particular topic, theme, or aspect of your life.

In a nutshell, using journaling prompts can help get the creative juices flowing and make it easier to come up with ideas for what to write about. Many people find that using prompts can help them explore new topics and gain new insights through their journaling practice. You can use prompts every day, or just when you need a little extra inspiration or motivation.

The Benefits of Using Journaling Prompts

Whether you’re looking to improve your mental health, boost your creativity, or just keep a record of your life, journal prompts can be a powerful tool for building a lasting journaling habit .

1. Inspiration

When it comes to keeping a journal, sometimes it’s hard to know what to write about. Journal prompts provide a needed spark of inspiration by asking a question or giving you a jumping-off point from which to write.

2. Structure

Journal prompts give you a starting point and a structure for your writing, which can be especially helpful if you’re new to journaling or if you struggle with writer’s block.

3. Consistency

When you have a set of prompts to work with, it becomes easier to write regularly, as you always have something to write about. This can help you establish a more consistent journaling habit.

4. Exploration

Journal prompts can encourage you to explore new topics, thoughts, and emotions that you may not have considered before. This can help you broaden your perspective and gain new insights into yourself and the world around you.

5. Creativity

Journal prompts that are more creative in nature can help you tap into your imagination and unleash your creative potential. This can be especially helpful if you’re feeling stuck or uninspired.

6. Motivation

When you see the progress you’re making and the growth you’re experiencing through journaling, it can be incredibly motivating. Journal prompts can help you stay engaged and motivated in your writing by providing new and exciting challenges.

7. Accountability

By committing to writing regularly, you can hold yourself accountable to your journaling practice and ensure that you continue to make progress and grow.

8. Reflection

Journal prompts that are more reflective in nature can help you slow down and reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This can be a valuable tool for personal growth and self-discovery.

Journal Prompt Examples

In this ultimate list of journal prompts, you’ll find hundreds of journal prompt examples that you can use and adopt into your journaling practice, including examples of journal prompts for beginners, examples of daily journal prompts, examples of evening journal prompts, and more.

These journal prompt examples are grouped into categories to make them a bit easier to navigate and help you find the prompts that best fit your journaling goals and preferences. Each category of journal prompt examples includes a variety of prompts designed to inspire self-reflection, creativity, personal growth, and mindfulness.

With this comprehensive list of journal prompts, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself, your experiences, and the world around you through the powerful practice of journaling.

Beginner Journal Prompts

If you are a beginner journaler, here are some good journaling prompts to try. Simply copy and paste these journaling prompt examples into your journal. These prompts are just a starting point, and you can adjust them or come up with your own to fit your needs and interests.

• What happened today?
• What was the best thing that happened today?
• What was the worst thing that happened today?
• What was the most interesting thing I saw or heard today?
• What was the most challenging thing I faced today?
• What am I grateful for today?
• What did I learn today?
• What was the most fun thing I did today?
• What was the most surprising thing that happened today?
• What did I do today that I am proud of?

Brainstorming Journal Prompts

Journal prompts can be a helpful tool for brainstorming because they provide a starting point and direction for your thinking. By using these prompts, you can unlock your creativity, explore new possibilities, and come up with innovative solutions to the challenges and opportunities in your life. Remember to be open-minded, curious, and non-judgmental as you brainstorm, and to write down every idea that comes to mind, no matter how big or small.

• What is the current problem or challenge I am facing?
• What are my goals and objectives related to this problem or challenge?
• What are some potential solutions to this problem or challenge?
• What are some creative and unconventional solutions I can consider?
• What are some pros and cons of each potential solution?
• How can I collaborate with others to find a solution?
• What are some resources I can utilize to help solve this problem or challenge?
• How can I apply my skills, knowledge, and experience to this problem or challenge?
• What are some potential roadblocks or challenges to implementing a solution, and how can I overcome them?
• How can I prioritize and organize my thoughts and ideas to effectively solve this problem or challenge?

Body Positivity Journal Prompts

Body positivity is about learning to love and accept your body exactly as it is, while also recognizing that your body is not your only source of worth or value. These prompts can help you explore and cultivate a more positive relationship with your body, but the journey towards self-love is ongoing and ever-evolving. Be patient, kind, and compassionate towards yourself, and remember that every step towards greater self-acceptance is a step in the right direction.

• What do I love most about my body, and why?
• What beliefs or messages about my body do I need to let go of in order to cultivate more self-love and acceptance?
• What activities or practices help me feel connected to and in tune with my body?
• How can I be more compassionate towards my body, especially when I’m feeling self-critical or negative?
• What role does social media or the media in general play in shaping my body image, and how can I cultivate a more positive relationship with these sources of influence?
• What would it feel like to let go of the need to compare my body to others, and instead focus on my own unique strengths and beauty?
• What are some ways I can prioritize my physical health and well-being, without falling into the trap of diet culture or body shaming?
• How can I shift my focus from appearance-based goals (e.g. weight loss, achieving a certain body shape) to more holistic measures of health and wellness (e.g. energy levels, mood, strength, etc.)?
• What does it mean to truly embody self-love and body positivity, and how can I take small steps towards this every day?
• How can I cultivate a sense of appreciation and love for my body, even if it doesn’t conform to societal ideals?
• What are some ways I can celebrate and care for my body, regardless of its shape or size?

Creative Journal Prompts

By using these prompts, you can tap into your creativity and expand your skills and knowledge. Remember, creativity is not limited to art or music, but can also include problem-solving, critical thinking, and even communication. By keeping an open mind and a curious attitude, you can discover new ways to express yourself and connect with the world around you. So take a few minutes each day to journal and see where your creativity leads.

• What does creativity mean to me?
• How do I get to use my creativity on a daily basis?
• What is one thing that I have always wanted to create, and what steps can I take to make it a reality?
• What is one place or environment that inspires my creativity, and how can I create more opportunities to be in that space?
• What are my passions and interests, and how can I incorporate them into my work or personal life?
• What is one small creative project that I can do today, and how can I make it unique to my personal style?
• What is one fear or obstacle that is holding me back creatively, and what can I do to overcome it?
• What is one thing that I can learn or experiment with in order to expand my creative skills and knowledge?
• What is one challenge or prompt that I can give myself to push myself creatively?
• What is one way I can creatively express gratitude, love, or appreciation for someone in my life?
• How can I challenge myself to think outside of the box and embrace new and creative ideas?
• How can I surround myself with people and environments that foster creativity and inspiration?
• What are some ways I can take time for myself and recharge my batteries to cultivate creativity and inspiration?
• What are some hobbies or activities I can pursue to tap into my creativity and imagination?
• How can I incorporate more play and fun into my life to foster creativity and inspiration?
• What are some ways I can break out of my comfort zone and try new things to stimulate creativity and inspiration?
• How can I be more open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives?
• What are some ways I can use technology and innovation to enhance my creativity and inspiration?
• How can I seek out new experiences and adventures to expand my horizons and inspire my creativity?
• How can I create a supportive and nurturing environment for my mind, body, and soul to encourage creativity and inspiration?

Creative Writing Prompts

Your journal can be a great place to explore creative writing projects like short stories, poetry, song lyrics, memoirs, or novels. Some people find it helpful to use their journal to record thoughts and ideas, which can then be used as inspiration for future writing projects. Others writers use their journal as a place to practice writing exercises or to experiment with different writing styles. By giving yourself a private place to explore ideas, create first drafts, and catalog your progress, your imagination can roam free.

• Write a story from the perspective of an inanimate object that has come to life.
• Write a poem about a childhood memory that has stayed with you.
• Write about a character who wakes up one day with a superpower.
• Write a poem about the changing of the seasons and the beauty of nature.
• Write a story that begins with the sentence “The door creaked open, revealing a long-forgotten room.”
• Write a story about a group of people who are stranded on a deserted island.
• Write a poem that explores the concept of time and how it shapes our lives.
• Write a story from the perspective of a character who has lost their memory and is trying to piece together their past.
• Write a poem that reflects on the beauty of everyday moments.
• Write a story about a time traveler who accidentally gets stuck in the wrong time period.
• Write about a relationship that taught you an important lesson about yourself or the world around you.
• Write a story about a character who discovers a mysterious book with a hidden message.
• Write a poem that uses the theme of water to convey a deeper meaning or emotion.
• Write about a place that has had a significant impact on your life, and what memories or emotions it brings up for you.
• Write a story about a character who is forced to confront their deepest fear.
• Write a poem that explores the idea of home and what it means to you.
• Write a story from the perspective of an animal who is trying to survive in the wilderness.
• Write about an experience that taught you a valuable lesson about forgiveness or acceptance.
• Write a story about a character who receives a letter from a long-lost relative with a surprising revelation.

Daily Journal Prompts

Daily journal prompts are prompts you may want to ask yourself on a daily basis. By using these journal prompts on a daily basis, you can cultivate a greater sense of mindfulness, gratitude, self-awareness , and intentionality in your life. Whether you use these prompts in the morning to set your intentions for the day, or in the evening to reflect on your experiences, they can help you stay focused, motivated, and aligned with your values and goals.

• How am I feeling today?
• How does my body feel today?
• What am I nervous or anxious about today?
• What actions can I take on each of the things that make me nervous or anxious?
• What are my top priorities for the day?
• What’s something I can do to make today amazing?
• What did I learn today? How can I apply this knowledge in the future?
• What challenges did I face today? How did I overcome them? What can I learn from these experiences?
• What did I do today that brought me joy or fulfillment? How can I incorporate more of these activities into my daily routine?
• What was a moment of joy, delight, or contentment today?
• What was a small detail I noticed today?
• What was the weather like today?
• What am I thankful for today?
• What could I have done differently today?
• How can I make tomorrow even better?

Decision-Making Journal Prompts

Decision-making can be challenging and anxiety-inducing, but journaling can be a helpful tool to clarify your thoughts, fears, hopes, and priorities. By reflecting on these decision-making prompts, you can gain greater clarity and insight into your decision-making process, and ultimately make choices that feel more aligned with your true self and values.

• What is the decision I need to make?
• When do I need to make this decision?
• What is the desired outcome I hope to achieve?
• What are the pros and cons of each option?
• What are my fears or concerns about making this decision?
• What insights or lessons have I gained from similar decisions I’ve made in the past?
• How do these lessons or insights apply to this situation?
• What advice would I give to a friend in this same situation?
• What is my instinct or intuition telling me about this decision?
• What impact will this decision have on myself and others?
• How does this decision align with my values?
• What resources or support do I need to make this decision with confidence and clarity?
• What is the worst-case scenario if I make this decision?
• What facts do I have to support my decision?
• How do I feel about my decision?
• How confident am I feeling about this decision?
• What are my next steps for this decision?

Dream Journal Prompts

The goal of keeping a dream journal is not to interpret your dreams as right or wrong, but rather to understand what they may be trying to tell you on a deeper level. By exploring your dreams in this way, you can gain valuable insights into your subconscious mind and find new ways to approach the challenges and opportunities in your waking life. Here are a few examples of dream journal prompts:

• What was the most memorable dream I had last night? Write down as many details as you can remember.
• What recurring themes or symbols appear in my dreams? Are there any patterns I can identify?
• What emotions did I feel in my dream, and do they relate to any current issues in my waking life?
• What do I think my dream is trying to tell me? How can I apply its message to my life?
• If I could have any dream I wanted tonight, what would it be about?
• If I could ask a dream character any question, who would I choose, and what would I ask them?
• What are some of the most bizarre or surreal dreams I’ve ever had? What do I think they mean?
• What is the most common type of dream I have (like nightmares, flying dreams, etc.)? What do I think it says about my psyche?

Evening Journal Prompts

By using these evening journal prompts, you can reflect on your experiences, cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness, and identify opportunities for growth and learning. Reflection is an important part of the learning and growth process, and taking a few minutes each evening to reflect on your day can help you gain greater insights into your life, your goals, and your values. So make journaling a daily habit, and see how it can help you live your best life.

• What are three things that went well today, and why?
• What were the highlights of my day?
• What are three things that I could have done differently today, and how can I learn from these experiences?
• How did I show gratitude today?
• What were some challenges I faced today and how did I overcome them?
• What did I do to take care of myself today?
• What did I do to help others today?
• How did I prioritize my time today?
• What did I do to bring positivity into my day?
• What did I do today that made me proud of myself?
• What were the most important events of the day?
• How did I feel at different moments throughout the day?
• What were some unexpected events that took place today?
• Who did I interact with today and what were those interactions like?
• What did I accomplish today?
• What are some things I would like to do differently tomorrow?
• What did I do to relax and recharge today?
• What were some of the sights, sounds, and smells I experienced today?
• How did I handle any difficult situations that arose today?
• What are some things I am looking forward to tomorrow?
• What emotions did I experience today?
• How did I respond to each emotion? What triggered each emotion?
• What did I do to make a positive impact on someone else’s day?
• What am I looking forward to tomorrow?
• What can I do to prepare for a peaceful night’s sleep?
• What was the most significant event of my day and why was it important?
• How did I handle any conflicts or difficult situations today?
• What did I learn about myself today?
• What are some things I can do differently tomorrow to have an even better day?
• Who made a positive impact on my day and how?
• What did I do to make someone else’s day better?
• What are some things I want to remember about today?

Fun Journal Prompts

Journaling can also be a fun and creative outlet. Use these fun journal prompts to explore your playful side or to even have a laugh.

• What is something silly that always makes me laugh?
• What is a favorite childhood memory that still brings me joy?
• If I could live in any time period or place, where would I choose and why?
• What is my favorite meal or type of food, and why do I love it so much?
• If I could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
• What is a book or movie that always puts me in a good mood, and why?
• What is something I’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet? How might I make that happen?
• What is one thing I can’t live without?
• What is one funny story about my life that I don’t mind sharing with other people?
• What is something about myself that I know is quirky?
• If I could be any fictional character, who would I choose and why?
• What is the most outrageous outfit or costume I’ve ever worn? Where did I wear it, and how did I feel?
• What is my favorite silly joke or pun, and why does it make me laugh?
• What is the best gift I have ever given, and why was it so special?
• If I were a superhero, what would be my name, powers, and costume?
• What is the funniest prank I have ever played on someone, or that someone has played on me?
• If I could magically switch lives with anyone for a day, who would it be and why?
• What is my favorite childhood toy or game, and why did I love it so much?
• What is my favorite dance move, and can I teach it to someone else (or describe it in words)?
• If I could travel anywhere in the world (or beyond), where would I go and what would I do there?

Goal-Setting Journal Prompts

The process of journaling goals can help you to clarify your goals, create a plan of action, and hold yourself accountable for making progress towards them. Use them to reflect on your priorities and values, identify potential obstacles, and develop a plan for success. By setting clear goals and taking concrete steps towards achieving them, you can create a sense of purpose and motivation in your daily life.

• What are my top three goals for the next year?
• What are some actionable steps I can take to achieve my goals?
• What is one new habit I would like to develop in the next month?
• How can I create a plan to make this new habit a consistent part of my routine?
• What are three skills or areas of knowledge I would like to develop in the next year?
• What resources or support can I seek out to help me achieve my goals?
• What are three things that are holding me back from achieving my goals?
• How can I work to overcome these obstacles?
• What are three small, measurable goals I can set for myself this week?
• How will I hold myself accountable for following through on my goals?
• What are my long-term career goals? What are some concrete steps I can take to move closer to achieving them?
• What are my personal values and how do they relate to my goals?
• How can I ensure that my goals are aligned with my values?
• What are some potential roadblocks or challenges that I may encounter as I work towards my goals?
• How can I develop a plan to overcome roadblocks or challenges to my goals?
• How can I track my progress towards my goals?
• What tools or systems can I use to stay motivated and on track?
• What are three small, specific goals I can set for myself each day?
• How can I ensure that my daily actions align with my larger goals and priorities?
• What habits do I need in order to achieve my goals?

Gratitude Journal Prompts

By using these gratitude journaling prompts , you can shift your focus from what you don’t have to what you do have, and cultivate a greater sense of appreciation and contentment in your life. Keeping a gratitude journal has been shown to have numerous benefits for our well-being, from increased happiness and positive emotions to better physical health and improved relationships. So take a few minutes each day to reflect on the good things in your life, and see how it can transform your perspective and your life.

• What are three things I am grateful for today?
• Who are three people in my life that I am grateful for, and why?
• What are three small things that happened today that I am grateful for?
• What is one thing that I often take for granted in my life, and how can I cultivate more appreciation and gratitude for it?
• What are some positive qualities or strengths that I possess, and how can I be grateful for them?
• What is something in my life that I feel “lucky” to have? 
• What is a simple delight I have been enjoying lately? 
• What is something I am grateful to have learned recently?
• In what ways have I grown as a person over the last year?
• What do I like about where I live right now? 
• What were some moments of joy today?
• How does expressing gratitude make me feel right now? 
• How can I show my gratitude today?
• What are some ways I can express gratitude and appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around me?

Growth Mindset Journal Prompts

The key to cultivating a growth mindset is to approach challenges and setbacks with a curious and open-minded attitude, and to view them as opportunities for learning and growth. By practicing these growth mindset journal prompts, you can begin to develop a more resilient, adaptable, and growth-oriented mindset that can help you achieve your goals and pursue your dreams with confidence and courage.

• What are some areas of my life where I tend to have a fixed mindset?
• How can I shift my thinking to adopt a growth mindset instead?
• What are some goals that I’ve been afraid to pursue due to fear of failure or rejection?
• How can I reframe my mindset to view failure as a natural part of the learning process, and use it as an opportunity for growth?
• What are some of my limiting beliefs and self-talk that may be holding me back?
• How can I challenge and overcome them?
• How can I embrace challenges and failures as opportunities for growth and development, rather than viewing them as setbacks?
• How can I cultivate a positive and optimistic attitude, even in the face of adversity and difficulty?
• What are some ways I can seek out feedback and constructive criticism to continue growing and improving?
• How can I strive for progress, rather than perfection, in my personal and professional life?
• What are some of my strengths and areas for growth, and how can I use this knowledge to drive personal development and growth?
• How can I seek out new experiences, opportunities, and relationships to broaden my horizons and support personal growth?
• How can I foster resilience and perseverance in the face of obstacles and challenges to continue growing and developing?
• How can I take responsibility for my thoughts, feelings, and actions, and use them as opportunities for growth and development?
• How can I view mistakes and failures as learning opportunities, rather than setbacks or obstacles?
• What are some new skills or knowledge areas that I want to develop?
• How can I cultivate a curious and open-minded attitude, and seek out new information and knowledge to support growth and development?
• What are some ways I can adopt a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to challenges and difficulties?

Inner Child Journal Prompts

Connecting with your inner child can be a powerful way to heal past wounds, reconnect with your joy and playfulness, and rediscover your authentic self. Use these journal prompts to explore your own childhood experiences and find ways to nurture and care for your inner child today.

• What memories do I have from my childhood? Are there any happy memories that stand out?
• What was my favorite activity as a child? Did I have any hobbies or interests that I loved?
• How did I spend my free time as a child? What games did I play? What books did I read?
• What did I enjoy most about school? Did I have a favorite subject or teacher?
• Did I have any dreams or aspirations as a child? What did I want to be when I grew up?
• What were some of the challenges or struggles I faced as a child? How did those experiences shape me?
• How did my family and upbringing impact my childhood experiences? What positive or negative influences did I have?
• What beliefs or attitudes did I develop as a child that may still be impacting me today?
• How can I nurture and care for my inner child now? What activities or experiences bring me joy and playfulness?
• What can I learn from my inner child? How can I tap into the curiosity, creativity, and resilience that I had as a child?
• What activities or experiences brought me joy as a child?
• How can I incorporate these activities into my life now?
• How can I nurture my inner child and cultivate a sense of playfulness and wonder?

Inspiring Journal Prompts

By using these inspiring journal prompts, you can tap into your creativity, cultivate a greater sense of inspiration, and explore new ideas and possibilities. Inspiration can come from many different sources, and by keeping an open mind and a curious attitude, you can discover new insights and perspectives that can help you live a more fulfilling and purposeful life. So take a few minutes each day to journal, and see where your imagination takes you.

• When was the last time I felt inspired?
• Where do I usually find inspiration?
• What things inspire me?
• Who is someone that inspires me, and what qualities do they possess that I admire?
• What is one book or movie that has inspired me, and why?
• What are some of my favorite forms of art, literature, or media, and how can they inspire me?
• What is one quote or saying that inspires me, and how can I apply its wisdom to my life?
• What is one creative project that I have been wanting to work on, and what steps can I take to get started?
• When was the last time I felt completely in awe of something, and what was it that inspired that feeling?
• What is one thing that I have always wanted to learn, and how can I make time to pursue this interest?
• What is one small thing that I can do each day to cultivate a greater sense of inspiration and creativity in my life?

Intention-Setting Journal Prompts

Setting intentions is all about clarifying your goals and priorities, and creating a plan to work towards them. These journal prompts can help you get started on that process, but ultimately the most important thing is to take action towards your goals, and adjust your intentions as needed based on what’s working (and what’s not).

• What do I want to focus on this month/week/day?
• What are my intentions for the day?
• What is my biggest “why” (the deeper purpose or motivation behind my intentions)?
• How can I use my “why” to stay focused and committed?
• How can I prioritize my time and energy accordingly?
• What are some external factors that could impact my ability to focus on my intentions, and how can I plan ahead to address them?
• What are some distractions or time-wasters that I need to eliminate in order to focus on what’s truly important?

Introspective Journal Prompts

Introspection is the process of looking inward and examining your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It involves self-reflection and self-awareness, and can help you better understand yourself and your experiences. Here are some introspective journal prompts:

• What brings me the most joy and fulfillment, and how can I make time for those things in my life?
• What does happiness mean to me? What can I do to cultivate more happiness and contentment in my life?
• What decisions am I facing right now?
• How do I define success? What steps can I take to achieve it?
• What are my fears and insecurities? How can I work through them to become more confident and self-assured?
• What are the most important relationships in my life? How can I strengthen them?
• In general, how do I feel about how my life is going right now?
• What are some areas of my life where I am currently stuck or feeling stagnant? What steps can I take to move forward and make progress in those areas?
• What themes, patterns, or symbols have I noticed in my life lately?
• What are some beliefs or assumptions that I hold about myself or the world around me?
• When I am faced with challenges or obstacles, what is my usual response?
• What are some activities or habits that drain my energy or motivation?
• How do I usually handle my emotions and feelings? Are there any emotions that I tend to avoid or suppress?
• What are some of the things that I am most grateful for in my life? How can I cultivate more gratitude and appreciation?

Journal Prompts for Dealing with Grief and Loss

Dealing with grief and loss can be a difficult and painful process, and journaling can be a powerful tool for processing and expressing your emotions. By taking the time to reflect on your emotions and explore ways to process them, you can find a path forward that works for you. Here are some journal prompts to help you work through the process of journaling grief :

• What are my fondest memories of the person I have lost?
• What are the things I wish I could have said or done with the person before they passed away?
• What is the hardest thing about dealing with the loss?
• How can I find ways to cope with my grief?
• How has this loss impacted my daily routine?
• What are the things I have learned about myself or about life in general as a result of this loss?
• What are some positive steps I can take to honor the memory of the person I have lost?
• How can I find support and comfort during this difficult time?
• Who are the people in my life who I can turn to for care and support as I navigate through my grief?
• What are some healthy ways I can process my grief, such as through exercise, meditation, or creative outlets like art or music?

Journal Prompts for Difficult Times

Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing difficult emotions and finding clarity during challenging times. Don’t be afraid to explore your feelings and seek support when you need it.

• What’s going on that makes this time so difficult?
• What is causing my distress?
• Who can I turn to for support?
• How have I coped with difficult times in the past?
• What are some things I am thankful for, even in challenging circumstances?
• How can I cultivate a sense of appreciation and optimism in the face of adversity?
• What self-care practices have helped me in the past?
• What can I learn from this experience? What lessons might I learn?
• How can I reframe the situation?
• What actions can I take to improve the situation?
• What positive things do I have in my life right now?
• What can I do to take care of myself right now?

Journal Prompts for Exploring Your Identity

Identity is a highly personal and subjective concept that is shaped by a variety of factors unique to each individual. Here are some journal prompts for exploring your identity:

• What are my personal values and beliefs? How do they shape my identity?
• What are some of the roles that I take on in my life? How do these roles contribute to my sense of identity?
• How do I define myself in terms of my relationships with others? How do these relationships shape my sense of self?
• What do I know about my cultural or ethnic background? How does my cultural or ethnic background shape my identity?
• What are some of the strengths, talents, or unique qualities that I possess? How do they contribute to my sense of self?
• How does my physical appearance shape my sense of identity?
• What life experiences have shaped who I am today?
• What are some of the fears or doubts that I have about my identity? How can I address these fears or doubts in a healthy way?
• How do I balance my need for individuality with my need for a sense of community or belonging?
• What are some of the things that I want to achieve or accomplish in life? How do these goals contribute to my sense of identity?

Journal Prompts for Exploring Your Memories

Exploring memories can be a powerful tool for personal growth and reflection. Our memories shape who we are and how we perceive the world around us, and taking the time to reflect on them can help us gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our experiences.

In this section, we’ve compiled a list of journal prompts to help you explore your memories and tap into your innermost thoughts and emotions. Whether you’re looking to process a difficult experience or simply reflect on a happy moment, these journal prompts for exploring your memorcan help you unlock new insights and perspectives.

• What is one of my earliest childhood memories?
• What emotions does this memory evoke?
• What is a happy memory from my childhood? What made it so special?
• What is a difficult memory from my past? How has this memory shaped me as a person?
• Who were some of my closest friends growing up? What impact did they have on my life?
• Who were some of my role models or mentors growing up? What impact did they have on my life?
• What were some of my favorite hobbies or activities growing up? Do I still enjoy them today?
• What were some of the major milestones or accomplishments I achieved in my life? How did they make me feel?
• What were some of the most challenging or transformative experiences I’ve had in my life? How have they shaped my perspective or values?
• What were some of the biggest surprises or unexpected turns my life has taken? How have I coped with these changes?
• What were some of the people or experiences that have brought me the most joy or meaning in my life? How can I cultivate more of these positive influences in my present?

Journal Prompts for Exploring Your Passions and Hobbies

Exploring your passions and hobbies can be a great way to gain insight into what you truly enjoy and what makes you feel fulfilled. Here are some journal prompts to help you explore your passions and hobbies:

• What are my favorite hobbies or activities?
• How do my favorite hobbies or activities make me feel?
• If I had all the time and resources I needed, what activities or hobbies would I pursue?
• What is it about my favorite hobby that I enjoy the most? How can I incorporate more of that into my life?
• Who do I know that shares my passion or hobby, and how can we collaborate or support each other?
• What skills do I possess that could be applied to a new hobby or activity?
• What is something I have always wanted to try but haven’t yet, and what is holding me back?
• If I could turn my passion or hobby into a career or side business, what steps could I take to make it happen?

Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear

Facing fear is a process. Use these prompts to help you identify and understand your fear, and then take small steps to face it. Celebrate your progress and be gentle with yourself along the way.

• What am I afraid of?
• What is the source of my fear? Where does it come from?
• How does my fear affect my life? In what ways does it hold me back?
• What would my life be like without this fear? What would I be able to accomplish or experience?
• How can I reframe my fear? Is there a way to look at the situation or issue differently?
• What steps can I take to face my fear? What action can I take to move through it?
• Who can I turn to for support? Who can help me face my fear?
• What have I learned from past experiences of facing fear? What worked well, and what didn’t work?
• How can I use my fear as motivation? Can I turn my fear into a positive force that drives me forward?
• What is the worst that can happen if I face my fear? What is the best that can happen?
• What are some fears or limiting beliefs that are holding me back?
• How can I work to overcome them?
• What resources or support can I seek out to help me overcome my fears?

Journal Prompts to Explore Emotions

Journal prompts can be a great way to explore and process emotions. Here are some examples of journal prompts for journaling about feelings :

• What emotion am I feeling right now? Write down any emotions that come to mind, no matter how big or small they may seem.
• Where do I feel this emotion in my body? What are the physical sensations I experience when I feel this emotion? Does it manifest in a certain part of my body or in a specific way?
• What triggered this emotion? Was it a thought, a memory, or something someone said or did?
• How am I responding to this emotion?
• When was the last time I felt this way?
• What emotions do I feel most often?
• What emotions do I avoid feeling?
• How did my emotions affect my thoughts and behavior today?
• How can I express this emotion in a healthy way?
• What can I learn from this emotion? Consider how this emotion can teach you something about yourself, your values, or your needs.
• What were some moments of stress or frustration today?
• What were some moments of peace or calm today?
• How did I handle negative emotions today?
• How can I better cope with difficult emotions in the future?
• What are some ways I can promote positivity and happiness in my life?
• How can I support myself through this emotion? Write down self-care strategies that can help you feel more grounded and centered when experiencing this emotion.

Mindfulness Journal Prompts

Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment, without judgment or distraction. It can help you to reduce stress, improve relationships, and find greater peace and contentment in your life. Use these prompts as a starting point for reflection and practice, and allow yourself to explore your inner world with curiosity and compassion.

• What is happening in this present moment?
• What are five things I can see right now, and what colors, shapes, and textures do they have?
• If my mind was like the ocean right now, what is the water like?
• What thoughts am I observing right now?
• What sensory information am I getting in this present moment?
• What are three things I can hear right now, and how do they sound?
• What are three things I can feel physically right now, such as the weight of my body on a chair or the texture of my clothing?
• What are three things I can smell right now, and how do they smell?
• What are three things I can taste right now, and how do they taste?
• What emotions am I feeling right now, and how can I practice acceptance and self-compassion towards them?
• What thoughts are running through my mind right now, and how can I acknowledge them without getting caught up in them?
• What are three things I am looking forward to in the next hour, and how can I stay present and open to experiencing them fully?
• What are three things that are worrying me right now, and how can I practice mindfulness to reduce my stress and anxiety?
• What are three small actions I can take right now to bring myself into the present moment, such as taking a deep breath, stretching, or savoring a sip of tea or coffee?

Morning Journal Prompts

By starting your day with these morning journal prompts, you can set a positive tone for the day ahead, clarify your goals and priorities, and cultivate a more intentional and mindful approach to your daily activities. Remember, the key to success is not just what you do, but how you approach it – and these prompts can help you cultivate the mindset and habits that can help you achieve your goals and live your best life.

• What’s on my mind this morning?
• What am I looking forward to today?
• What do I need to do today?
• What are my goals for today?
• What are some ways I can be productive today?
• What can I do today to take care of my physical and mental health?
• What are some challenges I might face today and how can I prepare for them?
• How can I prioritize self-care today?
• Who can I reach out to for support today?
• What is one thing I can do today to help someone else?
• How can I bring positivity into my day today?
• What positive affirmations can I tell myself to start my day on a positive note?
• What mindset or attitude do I want to cultivate today? How can I remind myself of this throughout the day?
• What makes me glad to be alive today?

New Year Journal Prompts

By using these New Year journal prompts , you can reflect on the past year, set goals and intentions for the year ahead, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and personal growth. Remember, the New Year is an opportunity for a fresh start, and by taking the time to reflect and plan, you can create a fulfilling and meaningful year ahead.

• What am I most grateful for at the beginning of this new year?
• What lessons did the previous year teach me?
• What are three things I accomplished last year?
• What values will guide my choices this year?
• What would I like to savor or enjoy more often this year?
• What are three goals I hope to accomplish this year?
• What new skill would I like to learn or improve this year?
• What relationships are most important to me? How can I continue to invest in these relationships this year?
• What problems would I like to solve this year?
• How would I like to grow or develop as a person this year?
• What is one habit I would like to build this year?
• What is something I want to do for others in the coming year?
• What is something I want to do for myself in the coming year?
• How can I prioritize my health and/or fitness this year?
• What new experiences do I want to try this year?
• What new place would I like to visit this year?
• What new creative project or hobby would I like to start this year?
• What fear do I want to overcome this year?
• How can I show more gratitude this year?
• How can I rest or relax more often this year?
• What am I looking forward to in the coming year?
• What word or phrase would I like to give this year?
• What is my biggest dream for the year ahead?

Personal Growth Journal Prompts

These journal prompts can help you identify areas of your life where you want to grow and improve. Remember that personal growth is a lifelong journey, and progress often happens in small, incremental steps. Use these prompts to reflect on your current situation and make concrete plans for positive change in your life.

• What are three qualities I want to embody in my daily life?
• What are my biggest fears and how can I overcome them?
• What are some limiting beliefs that hold me back, and how can I challenge them?
• What are some habits I want to cultivate or break, and how can I make progress towards those goals?
• What are some past mistakes or failures that have taught me valuable lessons, and how can I apply those lessons to my current life?
• How can I set and work towards achievable, yet challenging, goals to drive personal growth and development?
• How can I be more proactive and intentional about seeking out growth opportunities, rather than waiting for them to come to me?
• How can I balance taking risks and stepping outside of my comfort zone with taking care of myself and my well-being?
• How can I develop a growth mindset in areas that are difficult for me, such as public speaking or self-promotion?
• How can I seek out and embrace constructive criticism and feedback, and use it as an opportunity for growth and development?
• How can I cultivate a supportive and encouraging environment for personal growth and development, both within myself and in my relationships with others?
• What are some ways I can contribute to my community or the world around me?

Relationship Journal Prompts

Use these prompts to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in your relationships and find ways to improve your connections with loved ones.

• How do I communicate my needs and boundaries in my relationships?
• What are some ways I can deepen my connections with loved ones?
• What are my values and priorities when it comes to relationships?
• How do these values influence my actions and choices?
• How do I respond to conflict in my relationships?
• What communication patterns do I notice when things get difficult?
• What are some ways I can show appreciation and gratitude for the people in my life?
• How do I express love and affection?
• What are some challenges I face in my relationships? How can I work on improving these challenges?
• How do I handle disagreements or differences in opinion with my loved ones? What are some healthy ways to approach these situations?
• What are my relationship goals?
• What do I want to achieve in my current relationships or in future relationships?
• What are some areas where I need to work on boundaries in my relationships? How can I create healthier boundaries?
• How do I balance my needs with the needs of my partner or loved ones? What are some ways to ensure both parties feel heard and respected?
• How do I manage stress and emotions in my relationships?
• What are some techniques for managing anxiety or other difficult emotions in relationships?
• What is my love language? How do I communicate love and affection to my partner or loved ones?

Self-Care Journal Prompts

Self-care journal prompts are prompts or questions that encourage reflection and exploration of self-care practices and activities in your self-care journal . They are designed to help you better understand your needs, feelings, and emotions, and to identify areas in your life where you may need more self-care.

• How do I define self care?
• What role does self-care play in my mental, physical, and emotional health?
• What are my favorite forms of self care?
• What are some ways I can prioritize my physical health and well-being to care for myself?
• What forms of exercise do I enjoy?
• What activities help me feel calm and centered?
• How am I incorporating healthy eating into my daily life?
• How am I helping myself get enough sleep?
• What are some activities or hobbies that bring me joy and relaxation? How can I make time for these in my life?
• How can I better manage and reduce stress and anxiety?
• How am I exploring mindfulness practices or meditation?
• How do I seek support from others?
• How can I prioritize self-care during difficult or challenging times, and avoid neglecting my own needs?
• How can I set boundaries with others to make sure I have time and energy for self-care?
• How can I seek out and connect with supportive and positive relationships that uplift and empower me?
• How can I recognize and address toxic or unhealthy patterns or behaviors, and work towards making positive changes for my well-being?
• How can I cultivate self-compassion and self-forgiveness, and avoid self-criticism and negative self-talk?
• How can I prioritize self-care when I am feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, and take steps to prevent burnout in the future?
• When was the last time I took a break or gave myself some time off? How did it feel?

Self-Discovery Journal Prompts

Journaling prompts for self-discovery can provide new pathways for self-discovery and insights. Remember, the key to self-discovery is to approach these prompts with an open mind and heart, and to give yourself permission to explore and discover new things about yourself.

• What are my core values? Take some time to reflect on the values that are most important to you in life, and why they matter to you.
• When do I feel most alive? Reflect on the moments, experiences, and activities that make you feel fully present, engaged, and energized.
• What gives my life meaning or purpose? Consider the activities, relationships, causes, and values that are most important to you.
• What are my strengths and weaknesses? Consider the things you’re good at and the areas where you struggle.
• How can I leverage my strengths and work on my weaknesses? Consider ways you can utilize your skills, knowledge, or talent in new ways or find ways for improvement.
• What are my goals and aspirations? Write down your short-term and long-term goals, and what steps you need to take to achieve them.
• What are my passions and interests? Think about the activities, topics, and causes that inspire and motivate you. How can you incorporate more of these things into your life?
• What are my fears and limiting beliefs? Explore the fears and beliefs that may be holding you back from reaching your full potential. How can you challenge and overcome them?
• What does my ideal life look like? Envision the life you want to create for yourself, and what steps you need to take to make it a reality.
• What have been the most defining moments of my life? Reflect on the experiences that have shaped who you are today, and what you’ve learned from them.
• What activities bring me the most joy and fulfillment?
• What impact do I hope to make in the world? Reflect on how you can align your daily actions with your deeper sense of purpose.
• How have my interests changed over time? Take a trip down memory lane and reflect on the activities that you used to enjoy, as well as the ones that you currently enjoy.
• What are some of my most memorable and meaningful experiences? How can they inspire me moving forward?
• How can I embrace change and new opportunities in my life?

Self-Confidence Journal Prompts

Journal prompts for self-confidence are designed to help you explore and develop your sense of self-assurance, belief in your abilities, and positive self-image. Here are some examples:

• What are some things that make me feel confident?
• How have I overcome challenges in the past, and what did I learn from those experiences?
• What is one thing I can do today to step outside of my comfort zone and build my confidence?
• What are some negative self-talk patterns that I engage in, and how can I reframe those thoughts in a more positive way?
• What are my strengths and how can I utilize them to achieve my goals?
• What are some compliments that others have given me in the past, and how can I internalize those positive messages?
• How can I take care of myself and practice self-compassion in moments when I feel uncertain or doubtful?
• What would I say to a friend who is struggling with self-confidence, and how can I apply that advice to my own life?
• How can I embrace my unique qualities and use them to my advantage?
• What is one step I can take today to work towards a goal that will build my self-confidence?

Self-Esteem Journal Prompts

Self-esteem journal prompts are writing prompts designed to help you explore your beliefs, thoughts, and feelings about yourself, and to develop a stronger sense of self-worth and self-confidence. Here are some examples:

• What are my unique qualities and strengths, and how can I embrace and celebrate them more fully?
• What are three things I accomplished this week that I am proud of?
• How can I be kinder to myself today?
• What are my unique strengths and how have they helped me in the past?
• What is one negative thought I have about myself that I can challenge with a positive thought?
• What can I do to take care of myself physically and emotionally today?
• What are three things I love about myself?
• How have I grown and changed as a person in the past year?
• What is a positive affirmation I can repeat to myself throughout the day?
• What is one small step I can take today to work towards a personal goal or dream?

Self-Reflection Journal Prompts

Self-reflection is the process of examining your own thoughts, feelings, and actions in order to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. It involves taking a step back from your daily life and reflecting on your experiences, values, beliefs, and goals. Self-reflection can help you to become more self-aware, to identify areas where you want to grow and improve, and to make more intentional choices in your life.

• What are some values that are important to me, and how do they guide my decisions and actions?
• What are some experiences from my past that have shaped who I am today, and how have they influenced my beliefs and attitudes?
• What are some things that bring me joy and fulfillment, and how can I incorporate more of them into my life?
• What are some patterns of behavior or thought that hold me back, and how can I work to break those patterns?
• What are some goals or aspirations I have for my life, and what steps can I take to work towards them?
• What are some fears or insecurities that hold me back, and how can I work to overcome them?
• What are some relationships that are important to me, and how can I nurture and strengthen those relationships?
• What are some mistakes or failures from my past that have taught me valuable lessons, and how can I apply those lessons to my current life?
• What are some self-care practices that are important to me, and how can I make them a regular part of my routine?
• What are some things that I am grateful for in my life, and how can I cultivate more gratitude on a daily basis?

Shadow Work Journal Prompts

Shadow work journaling is a process of exploring and integrating the repressed, hidden, or darker aspects of oneself. Journaling can be an effective way to facilitate this journey.

• What triggered negative feelings today?
• How do I think others perceive me?
• What have others communicated to me about myself?
• How do I respond to compliments?
• When do I feel valued and loved?
• What challenges did I face as a child?
• What are my best and worst traits?
• What do I need to forgive myself for?
• What do I judge others for, and why?
• Do I feel guilt or shame for anything?
• How do I support others, and do I show myself that same love?
• What do I consider to be healthy boundaries?
• When do I feel the need to lie, and what is the worst lie I’ve told?
• What parts of myself do I hide?

Spirituality Journal Prompts

Spirituality is a personal and individual journey. Use these journal prompts for spirituality to explore your own beliefs and practices, and create a deeper connection with your spirituality.

• What does spirituality mean to me?
• What role does spirituality play in my daily life?
• What spiritual books, teachings, or leaders have influenced me? What have I learned from these sources?
• How can I integrate my spiritual beliefs and practices into my routines?
• How do I define my beliefs and values?
• How have my beliefs and values evolved over time?
• How do I connect with a higher power or the divine?
• What practices or rituals do I find helpful in nurturing my spirituality?
• How can I incorporate more spirituality into my daily life?
• How can I explore my relationship with the divine or higher power?
• What questions or uncertainties do I have about my spirituality? How can I explore these questions and seek answers?
• How can I use my spirituality to cultivate a sense of compassion and empathy towards others, and contribute to the greater good of humanity?

Stress Relief Journal Prompts

By using these prompts, you can explore your stress triggers, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and cultivate a greater sense of mindfulness and appreciation in your daily life. Remember, stress is a natural part of life, but by taking the time to reflect and care for yourself, you can begin dealing with stress and anxiety to reduce your stress levels and find more peace and calm in your life.

• What are some of the sources of stress in my life right now?
• How have I been coping with stress in the past?
• What are some healthy coping mechanisms I can use to manage stress?
• How can I prioritize self-care to reduce stress?
• What are some positive affirmations I can tell myself to combat stress?
• Who can I reach out to for support and encouragement when I am feeling stressed?
• How can I reframe negative thoughts and maintain a positive outlook?
• What are some activities or hobbies that help me relax and de-stress?
• How can I create a stress-free environment at home or at work?
• What are some steps I can take to prevent stress from overwhelming me in the future?
• What are some practical solutions to the sources of stress in my life?
• How can I prioritize my time and responsibilities to reduce stress?
• What are some physical activities I can do to relieve stress?
• How can I maintain a healthy work-life balance to reduce stress?
• How can I stay organized and on track to reduce stress?
• How can I find humor and joy in life to combat stress?
• What are some self-reflection exercises I can do to reduce stress?
• How can I maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce stress, such as eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly?
• How can I set realistic expectations and boundaries to reduce stress?
• What are some things I can do to maintain a positive and relaxed state of mind, such as meditating, practicing mindfulness, or spending time in nature?

Travel Journal Prompts

By using these travel journal prompts, you can record your thoughts and emotions while exploring new places, and reflect on the many insights and lessons you learn along the way. Keeping a travel journal can help you gain a deeper appreciation for the world around you, and help you create lasting memories that you can look back on for years to come. By using these travel journal prompts for each day of your trip, you can record your experiences, thoughts, and emotions throughout your journey. This can help you appreciate your travels more, and give you a way to look back on your adventures and memories in the future.

• Where am I currently traveling to and what are my expectations for this trip?
• What are some new things I want to experience and try while on this trip?
• What are some things I want to learn or understand better about the culture and people in the places I visit?
• How did I feel when I arrived at my destination? What were my first impressions?
• What did I do on my first day of travel? What were the highlights?
• What are some things I want to do or see while I’m here?
• What did I do today? What were the highlights?
• What did I learn about the place I’m visiting today?
• What are some interesting people I’ve met? What did I learn from them?
• What impressions have I gotten from the place I’m visiting?
• What’s beautiful or unique about the place I’m visiting?
• What was the most memorable moment of my trip so far, and why?
• What natural wonders did I see today? How did they make me feel?
• Did I engage in any outdoor activities today? What were they, and how did they challenge or inspire me?
• What local flora or fauna did I encounter today? What did I learn about them?
• Did I take any time to relax today? How did I spend that time?
• How am I feeling about my trip so far? What are some things that have surprised me?
• What are some new things I want to try before my trip ends?
• What have I learned about myself on this trip?
• What am I most grateful for on this trip?
• What challenges have I faced during my travels, and how have I overcome them?
• What are some things I would do differently if I could do this trip over again?
• What are some things I will miss most about this place?
• Who have I met on this trip that has impacted me, and what did I learn from them?
• What are some interesting observations or insights I’ve had about the places I’ve visited?
• What have I learned about myself during my travels, and how has this experience changed me?
• What are some ways I can take the lessons and experiences from my travels and apply them to my life at home?

“What If” Journal Prompts

“What if” journal prompts are a fun and creative way to explore different scenarios and possibilities. There are no right or wrong answers, so have fun with these prompts and see where your creativity takes you!

• What if I could travel back in time to any moment in history? Where would I go, and what would I do?
• What if I had the power to fly? How would I use this ability, and where would I go?
• What if I could live anywhere in the world? Where would I choose, and why?
• What if I won the lottery? How would my life change, and what would I do with the money?
• What if I could switch places with someone for a day? Who would I choose, and what would I do in their shoes?
• What if I could meet any famous person, living or dead? Who would I choose, and what would I ask them?
• What if I could speak any language fluently? Which language would I choose, and what would I do with this skill?
• What if I could relive any day from my past? Which day would I choose, and what would I do differently?
• What if I could talk to any animal? Which animal would I choose, and what would I ask them?
• What if I had made a different pivotal decision in my past? Which decision would have changed the course of my life?

Answer a New Daily Journal Prompt in the Day One Journal App

The Day One journaling app makes it easy to build and maintain a daily journaling habit. Daily journaling writing prompts , reminders , and journaling 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.

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365 Journal Prompts to Help You Reflect, Grow, and Connect: A Year of Self-Discovery

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: October 4, 2022  - Last updated: January 2, 2024

Categories Writing , Creativity , Inspiration , Self Improvement

Do you enjoy writing in your journal? If not, it might be because you’re not sure what to write about.

Here are 365 journal prompts to help get you started! These prompts will help you reflect on your life, grow as a person, and connect with others.

These prompts give you something new to explore, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced writer. Happy writing!

365 Creative Writing Prompts for Your Daily Journal

Each day, choose one of the 365 journal writing prompts.

Each journal writing prompt will put you in a creative space and help you reflect and work on your life. This is also a great way to record the key moments in your life that shape you.

Season One – Self-Discovery

Embark on a journey of self-exploration this spring. These prompts will guide you in reflecting on your inner thoughts and aspirations.

• What do you always think about but never talk about?
• What’s something good that happened today, no matter how small?
• What are five things that make you happy?
• What’s something you want to accomplish in the next year?
• What’s one positive affirmation you want to remember every morning?
• When did you last lose your temper, and why did it happen?
• Write a gratitude list.
• Write a letter to someone who’s significantly impacted your life.
• What would you do differently if you knew no one would judge you?
• When did you experience your biggest adrenaline rush?
• Did you have a dream last night? What was it about?
• Did anything make you sad today?
• What was the best part of your day?
• Tell your future self about today.
• If money didn’t matter, what would you do with your life?
• Do you think you’re a good person? Why or why not?
• What’s something you wish more people knew?
• What are three qualities that draw you to other people?
• Write down a positive affirmation and repeat it to yourself.
• Is there a show on TV that makes you laugh every time?
• What’s it called, and why do you love it so much?
• Would it be better to live forever or die tomorrow? And why?
• What advice would you give if you could go back in time and talk to yourself as a teenager?
• Which of your fears do you think is least likely to come true?
• Write about some things that give you hope.
• What’s the best thing that happened to you this weekend?
• Write a list of your strengths.
• Describe three people who inspire you in your life.
• Who are three famous people born on your birthday? Did they’ve anything in common besides their birthday?
• Did you learn anything new about yourself today?
• What’s the most crucial thing parents should consider when raising teens?
• What would the book’s title be if someone were to write a biography about your life? Why did you choose that title?
• Are you sticking to your goals and resolutions?
• What did you do this week that brought you closer to your goal(s)?
• What could you do today to get closer to your goal(s)?
• What are your goals and plans for the rest of the year?
• In what ways does journaling surprise you, or what unexpected things have come up for you?
• Imagine you could stand on a rooftop and send a message to everyone below you; what would you say?
• What’s the one aspect of you that you’re still trying to understand?
• If you could wake up every day and it was a vacation or a season, which would you choose?
• Would you make an extra effort or ask for help with an overwhelming workload?
• Could you spend the whole day in your own company without getting bored?
• What would it be if you could go back and change one thing from your past?
• What two things could you do for a friend or family member in the next few weeks?
• If you could change one thing in your life now, what would it be?
• Have you stayed on track with your health goals?
• What would it be if you could become an expert in one area or activity?
• If someone told you they needed to be motivated, what advice would you give them?
• What’s the one thing that always brings a smile to your face?
• Do you reflect on past conversations and experiences and analyze your mistakes?
• What would you like to try if you were confident you wouldn’t fail?
• Is there something in your life that needs to be simplified ?
• What random acts of kindness could you do in the next year?
• How do you get along with people who’ve different views than you?
• What’ve you always wanted to try but never got around to?
• What’s the one thing you think you can only accomplish with the support of others?
• What accomplishments or qualities do you want to be remembered for?
• How do you handle it when people are unkind and mean to you?
• How do you deal with your emotions, and how can you control them better?
• What are you most grateful for in your life right now?
• Write about one thing you learned this week.
• What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
• What’s something new you’ve recently found interest in?
• Write about a happy childhood memory .
• Write about a sad childhood memory.
• Is there anything you’re most proud of in the past year?
• What’s your favorite hobby and why?
• If you could interview anyone (past or present), who would it be, and what would you ask them?
• What was the last thing you bought for yourself? Was it something you loved or needed, or just to pass the time?
• What qualities do you value in others? Do they apply to you as well?
• What would your life be like without electricity?
• How much time do you think you spend on social media per day?
• List five things in your room.
• What’s your favorite color?
• Who’s your biggest role model ? And why?
• What was a good memory you had with a friend?
• Have you ever seen a ghost? What happened?
• What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? Why was it so special?
• What’s the best class you’ve ever taken and why?
• If money were no object, what house would you buy and why?
• Write about your last dream.
• Describe the clothes your parents wore most often when you were a child.
• Write a letter to yourself, from yourself.
• Write a letter to your younger self
• Write a letter to your future self
• Write about something that made you cry and how you felt afterward.
• Who was the last person who made you cry? Why did it make you cry?
• If you could have been in any band or musical group (current or defunct), which would you like to be in? What role would you play?
• What did you do yesterday that you wish you hadn’t done today?
• If you could go back in time, what would you say to your best friend at age 10?
• Which of your family members do you admire and why?

Season Two – Embracing Growth and Memories

This quarter’s prompts focus on cherished memories, impactful relationships, and personal growth.

• Write about the person who impacted your life most and why.
• What was your favorite toy growing up?
• What event changed the direction of your life forever?
• Who was your first love, and what was it like?
• Write a letter to someone who’s hurt you in the past, but don’t send it.
• Who’s the one person you can turn to when everything seems to go wrong?
• Describe the happiest day of your life.
• What’s your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon?
• Write about something you wish could happen.
• Describe an ideal vacation.
• What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream ?
• What was the last person you talked to on the phone?
• What did you talk about?
• What’s one little thing that can make your day better?
• How could you show someone how much he or she means to you?
• What do you want to do this year but are afraid to?
• If you could ask a living or dead person just one question, who’d you ask, and what would you ask?
• What was the best day of your life so far?
• What’s one personal accomplishment that’s significant to you?
• Who’s had the biggest impact on your life so far?
• How have they influenced you?
• Who do you look up to in your family or community and why?
• Who’d play you if someone were to make a movie about your life?
• When we look back on this time in the future, what’ll we remember most?
• What’s one of the proudest moments of your life so far? Why were you proud?
• How has your life changed for the better in the last three months? How has it changed for the worse?
• If you could change one thing in your personal life, what would it be? Why haven’t you made that change yet?
• When was the last time someone made a negative comment about your personality? Who was it, and what did they say?
• What’s one thing that makes people happy that doesn’t cost money but can only be bought with time?
• Write in detail about a day when everything went well.
• How old were you then, and what were the circumstances for that day of perfect happiness?
• Is there a historical event that impacted your family or community growing up, and how did it change things for them?
• Write about when someone annoyed or hurt you by saying something unkind about your body.
• Are there any songs that make you nostalgic?
• What are your favorite foods ?
• What would it be if you could know one thing about the future?
• Who was someone who wanted to be like you when you were younger?
• What’s been particularly annoying to you lately?
• How many keys do you’ve on your keychain right now?
• What do you wish more people knew about you?
• What makes someone a good leader?
• Do you think a relationship changes people’s behavior or who they’re at their core?
• Are there activities that always calm you down or cheer you up when you need it?
• If the world ended tomorrow, what would I do today?
• When was the one time you felt truly free?
• Describe your perfect day.
• What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life?
• If you could change anything about the world, what would it be?
• When have you felt most complete or whole?
• Describe a beautiful place you’ve been.
• What are things that give you a sense of purpose?
• How can you tell you’re in love?
• How have your priorities changed over time? What’s influenced those changes?
• What do you want to teach others?
• Who’s the most generous person you know?
• Do you prefer to be alone or with others?
• What do you find most satisfying about your work?
• What was your most memorable birthday, and why?
• What three words would you use to describe yourself?
• Do you feel more comfortable with people older than you or younger?
• What would it be if you could’ve one business or profession that doesn’t exist now?
• Can a person ever be too rich or too thin? Explain.
• What’s the best thing about living in this world now, today?
• What movies do you love? And why?
• Write about something you’d like to change.
• Write about a situation where someone showed courage. It could be you, a friend, or even a stranger. Bravery looks different for everyone!
• What item would improve your quality of life in the next week?
• What does success look like for you? What’ll your life look like when you achieve it?
• Imagine that one day in the future, a distant relative finds this journal entry and reads it. What would you like them to know about who you are today and what’s important to you?
• How are you feeling right now?
• Write about a time when you felt anxious.
• Write about a time when you felt relaxed.
• Write about a time when you felt lonely.
• Write about a time when you felt confident.
• Who’s someone you’d like to reach out to today?
• What do you like best about yourself?
• What makes you get up in the morning?
• What’s your dream job?
• Who’s your best friend and why is he your best friend?
• How do you act kindly in everyday life?
• Describe three of your desires.
• Write about something you never thought you’d experience.
• What makes you feel out of control?
• Do you believe in fate or providence? How does that affect how you feel about your life?
• If money didn’t matter, what would you do with your time and energy?
• Describe a place where you feel calm.
• If you could only have one superpower, what would it be and why?
• Draw a picture of your fear.
• What’s one thing you don’t understand about your parents?
• What makes you feel like a child?
• When have you felt the loneliest?
• What’s something you know now that your younger self would be surprised to know?

Season Three – Nurturing Growth and Gratitude

These prompts aim to help you ponder your inspirations, gratitude, and the quieter moments of life.

• Write about a song that changed your mind about music.
• Write a letter telling the universe what you let go of today.
• What’s an excellent gift to give someone but not good to receive yourself?
• What was the last compliment you received?
• What are the last five things you bought?
• Who’s an inspirational mentor to you?
• Do you collect anything? If so, what and why?
• How are you taking care of yourself today, physically and emotionally?
• Write a note to someone who’s positively impacted your life. Did you know this person had an impact on your life? Why or why not?
• Where do you find your inspiration?
• What are you most grateful for this week? This month? This year?
• What’s something that’s weighing you down?
• What do you like most about someone else?
• How do you like to express yourself creatively ?
• What’ve you failed at lately, and how did it make you feel?
• Before you go to sleep, take a few minutes to write down your thoughts about the day. What went well? What didn’t go so well? Like
• What can you do today to be a better person? How will your family, friends and community benefit from this change?
• The most essential things in life are…
• Your favorite word is…
• Make a list of the most influential people in your life.
• What are the things that make you nervous or insecure? How can you help yourself feel better about those things?
• What are things that make you nostalgic?
• If you were to write a fan letter to yourself, what would it say?
• Would you describe yourself as an introvert or extrovert? And why?
• What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome?
• One person who made a difference in your life?
• How would the world be different if you were president?
• How do you feel when you look in the mirror?
• What made you smile today?
• Draw a picture of what you’re thinking about right now.
• What would your dream room look like?
• Write a love letter to yourself.
• What does well-being mean to you?
• What does it mean to be healthy?
• What do you like best about your job or education?
• What makes you proud of what you do?
• Describe a significant milestone in your career that you’re looking forward to.
• What new skills have you learned recently at your job?
• Think of something you want to accomplish at work in the next few weeks. How do you plan to accomplish it?
• Think of a challenge at your workplace. How can you overcome it?
• What’s the worst thing about your job or job training? How can you improve it?
• Why do you want to be a leader at work?
• How do you show leadership outside of work?
• Do you volunteer in your community? Why or why not?
• What are the most critical issues in your community that affect you or others at work?
• Do you prefer to work in a team or alone?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in groups or alone?
• What would you want to study if you could start over, and why?
• What career would you like to have someday, if any?
• Did you have a mentor at your age who helped you with your career or life goals? If so, who was it, and why did they help you so much?
• What are your fondest memories of your professional career?
• What would you like to try in your career that you haven’t done yet?
• If you could’ve lunch with anyone at work, who’d it be and why?
• Write a career-related bucket list.
• What was your first job? How did it impact your career today?
• What’s your main motivation for working? Money, respect, the environment, a good cause, etc.
• What questions would you ask someone who’s already achieved what you want to achieve? Write down how they’d answer these questions.
• How do different people define failure in your life?
• How can you build your confidence at work?
• How do you stay motivated at your job?
• How do you feel about asking for help at work?
• How did you spend your evenings as a child?
• How do you feel about your family?
• How often do you talk to your parents?
• What’s your relationship with money?
• How can you remember to be kinder to yourself today?
• Who or what deserves your attention the most?
• How can you break bad habits or negative thoughts ?
• What’s your earliest memory?
• What’s the funniest story from your childhood?
• What does it mean to you to be vulnerable? What does that look like for you?
• Look around and find something… How does it make you feel?
• Where’s your favorite place in nature? Describe it.
• Write about a positive experience in the last week.
• Are you holding on to something that you need to let go of?
• What does mindfulness mean to me personally?
• Is it possible to be happy in a world entirely of suffering?
• List three things that annoy you right now. Why do they annoy you?
• Section: Write a letter to someone from your past to whom you’ve always wanted to apologize but never had the opportunity.
• Think about what you could do to make your environment better. If you could do one thing, what would it be?
• What makes you feel like you belong to the world and are valued by others?
• What are essential relationships that have made you who you are today? Think of things like family members, friendships, etc.
• What does the word “forgiveness” mean to you?
• Finish the sentence “If I’d more time…”
• What’s something you haven’t shared with anyone until now?
• Do you feel like your life is moving in the right direction?
• What movie or book always makes you cry and why?
• What’s the trigger for your anxiety?
• Do you have a routine that helps you relax when you’re stressed?
• Do you’ve any coping mechanisms that help you during stressful times?
• Do you have a morning routine that puts you in a good mood for the rest of the day?
• What was the one moment in your life when everything changed for the better, and how did it change your life forever?
• What did you learn from your mistakes?
• What are the things that make you sleep well at night?

Season Four – Contemplating Ethics, Dreams, and Life’s Journey

These prompts invite you to introspect on life’s profound questions, ethical dilemmas, and the dreams that shape your future.

• Describe your ideal future.
• What’s one thing your parents taught you that’s never left you?
• What’s a dream you’re afraid to share with others? And why?
• How would you spend $1,000,000?
• What do you take most for granted in life?
• What’s the first step to making a dream come true?
• How would you describe your current life?
• Are there aspects of your life that aren’t how you’d like them to be?
• What do you think is the most significant challenge people your age face?
• If you could be any animal, which one would you be?
• What’s your favorite thing to do on a warm summer night?
• Have you ever lost someone close to you? How did it make you feel, and who helped you through it?
• If you could live in any historical era, which would you choose?
• Describe your dream life.
• What would be the best thing about having a utopian world?
• What do you think is the most meaningful use of your time?
• What’s the most fun thing you can do with your time?
• Do you think money can buy happiness? Why or why not?
• What single word best describes what your ideal life would look like?
• Write your mission statement. What do you want to achieve in life at this moment?
• How do you define a successful relationship or marriage?
• What are your ambitions for retirement?
• What activities are you investing your time, money, and energy in to create a better future for yourself?
• Do you feel that your work is helping to make the world a better place? If so, in what ways? If not, what would you need to change to make it so?
• How has technology positively impacted your life?
• What do you think is most important in life? And why?
• What values do you think are essential to your identity?
• In what decision have you consciously violated your own ethical beliefs?
• What are three words that describe you? How about three words that represent you as a person?
• How would you define the word “integrity”?
• When have you had to make difficult decisions to come into alignment with your values?
• When did something happen that made you seriously question yourself and your choices?
• What’s the difference between selfishness and self-centeredness?
• Are you fiscally responsible? Do you have a savings plan?
• What’s your definition of family, and who’s in your family?
• How do you define the word community? Are you part of a community right now?
• What are things you’d rather die for than do?
• Is there anything you’d be willing to sacrifice for others?
• Is there one thing that’s so important to you that you’d be willing to devote your life to it? What’s it, and why do you care so much about it?
• Have you ever faced a decision where you had to choose between two or more values or two or more sides of yourself?
• What do you struggle with when making decisions based on your values? Where does this conflict come from (your upbringing, religious beliefs, and intellectual beliefs)?
• How would people close to you describe your values? Would those descriptions match how you see yourself and your values manifest in your life? Why or why not?
• Who’s the most ethical person you know?
• What values do you hold that society largely disagrees with?
• How do you respond when a person challenges your values?
• Where do you see the line between ethics and legality being crossed in my environment?
• Where are your values the same as your parents?
• How would your life change if you acted more ethically?
• At what moment in your life did you have the most at stake in terms of ethics?
• Write down when you felt you were being dishonest.
• What did you learn from that experience?
• In what ways have you learned to be honest with yourself?
• Have you ever found being honest with someone close to you difficult?
• How do you feel about “white lies”?
• Do you feel that there are exceptions to the rule of honesty?
• Do you think honesty is a significant value that others should share?
• Do you think honesty is necessary for good leadership? If so, why? If not, why not?
• Why is it so difficult for some people to live honestly?
• Do you believe all lives are equal, or are some more valuable?
• How would you describe your values?
• Do your values change depending on the people you’re with?
• How can you tell whether a situation requires you to stand up for your values?
• Are there situations where you’ve compromised your values without being forced to do so? If so, what were those situations? Were they worth it?
• What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done for yourself?
• If you could choose a new name, what would it be? And why?
• Would you call yourself a forgiving person? Why or why not?
• Have there been times when forgiving has been difficult for you?
• When have you tried to forgive someone (even yourself) recently? How did you overcome that experience to come to forgiveness finally?
• Sometimes, unexpected events are a real blessing. Write about an event where something didn’t go as planned and how happy it made you.
• Describe how a friend surprised you.
• What are you afraid of in the future?
• How can you overcome your fear of failure?
• Write about an experience where you scared someone.
• What makes you stay in your comfort zone instead of stepping out and trying something new or different?
• How does your body usually react when you’re nervous or anxious, and what can you do to calm down quickly?
• How can you tell that something is out of your comfort zone and not only challenging but also within the realm of possibility for your skills and experience?
• Do you think people are born with fears, or do all fears come from our experiences?
• Write a poem about your fear.
• How do you deal with change?
• Do you feel at peace most of the time? Why or why not?
• Can you name something or someone that steals your peace?
• How much time do you spend each day on social media, news, or other things that increase your anxiety? Can reducing this time help you feel more peace and serenity?
• When do you feel most connected to others?
• How do you set your boundaries ?
• Who cares most about you and your well-being?
• What would you be willing to give up to create peace?
• Where do you feel safest?
• List 5 activities that help you feel peaceful .

Start With Easy Questions If New to Journal Writing

The more you write, the more comfortable you’ll feel.

There’s No Right or Wrong Way to Journal, but There Are Some Methods That Work Better Than Others

Here are a few ideas on how you can get started writing:

• Write about your day . Writing about the day’s events can be a great way to reflect on your life and gain a new perspective on the day’s events.
• Write about your feelings and emotions . This method is effective because we get lost in our thoughts and feelings without realizing it. When you write them down, they become tangible and easier to understand.
• Write down what you love/hate/hope/fear etc … People often forget their importance until someone says something nice or makes them feel special – sometimes even doing it unintentionally! So make sure your loved ones know how much they mean to you by writing it down!

Keeping a Daily Reflective Journal Is a Healthy Discipline

It can help you connect with your feelings, problem-solve, and make decisions.

It also helps you focus on the present moment instead of worrying about the past or the future. Writing allows you to express your feelings and understand yourself better.

Here are some of the benefits of journal writing:

Self-Awareness

Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences regularly will help you become more aware of your inner self. You’ll recognize how you feel in different situations and understand why you react in specific ways. This way, you’ll learn what makes you tick and how to better deal with negative feelings like fear or anger.

Creativity Boost

Keeping a journal can boost your creativity by forcing you to think outside the box and look at things from different perspectives. It helps you discover ideas you mightn’t have thought of, which can lead to new discoveries or solutions to problems in your life.

Problem-Solving Tool

Keeping a journal can also be a great way to solve problems. You can write down all of your thoughts and feelings, as well as any information about your problems, mental health , and any challenges you may encounter so that you have everything clearly in front of you later.

Help With Decision Making

A diary can also help make decisions easier by helping you weigh the pros and cons objectively, without being influenced by the opinions or feelings of others. If something is bothering you, writing it down can help clarify your thoughts and feelings and make the problem easier (and less stressful) to resolve.

Writing down what happened during the day can help you remember things better. The more details you write down, the easier it will be for you to remember them in future conversations with friends or family members.

Journal Writing Tips

The best way to learn about journal writing is to read the journals of others. You can find many examples of self discovery journal prompts on our website (gratitude journal prompts, creative self discovery journal prompts, self care journal prompts, etc.).

Here are some tips on what makes journaling prompts worth working on:

• When you write about something that happened in your life, be sure to include the date . This will help you remember exactly when it happened, and it’ll help other people who read your diary understand when the events took place.
• Be honest about what you’re writing about . Don’t pretend something didn’t happen when it did – just write it down as it happened, and be done with it! And don’t worry about whether people think less of you because they see something they disagree with; if they think less of you, then they weren’t worth knowing in the first place! If you keep a journal, it’ll help you get to know yourself better and know what makes you tick. This means that one day, when someone asks you why he or she should date or marry someone else, you’ll know exactly how to answer (and appropriately).
• Don’t apologize for what you write in your journal; if you don’t like something, just change it .
• Write your journal in the present tense and first person . This will help you focus on what’s happening right now, not what happened yesterday or last week.
• Keep a positive attitude when you write in your journal . If you start out saying, “I can’t do this,” you probably won’t get much done! Instead, say something like, “It feels good to be working toward my goals.” Then focus on how good it feels to do something that’s important to you.

Related Posts

28 Inspiring Manifestation Journaling Prompts to Help You Attract What You Want in Life

39 Gratitude Journal Prompts to Help You Appreciate Life

25 Creative Writing Prompts

by Melissa Donovan | Oct 23, 2018 | Creative Writing Prompts | 236 comments

Twenty-five creative writing prompts to inspire and motivate you.

Don’t you just hate writer’s block? Some say it’s a disease that only creative workers succumb to. Some say it’s a curse. Others argue that it doesn’t exist at all. But just about everyone has been there–sitting in front of a blank screen, fingers itching to create a masterpiece. And nothing happens.

For me, the most bizarre thing about writer’s block is that it strikes randomly. Most of the time, I’m overwhelmed with more ideas than I can possibly write about. But then I’ll sit down to write and my mind goes blank. Sure, I flip through my notebooks and review all the ideas I’ve stockpiled, but nothing feels right. I want something fresh. I need a new angle.

To help break through this block, I started turning to creative writing prompts. And then I started making up my own prompts. The result:  1200 Creative Writing Prompts ,  a book designed to spark ideas for writers.

Creative Writing Prompts

Today I’d like to share a mash-up of creative writing prompts, all of which come from  1200 Creative Writing Prompts . There are no rules. Write a poem. Write a short story. Write an essay. Aim for a hundred words or aim for a hundred thousand. Just start writing, and have fun.

• The protagonist is digging in the garden and finds a fist-sized nugget of gold. There’s more where that came from in this hilarious story of sudden wealth.
• Write a poem about something ugly—war, fear, hate, or cruelty—but try to find the beauty (silver lining) in it or something good that comes out of it.
• An asteroid and a meteoroid collide near Earth, and fragments rain down onto the planet’s surface, wreaking havoc. Some of those fragments contain surprising elements: fossils that prove life exists elsewhere in the galaxy, for example.
• The story starts when a kid comes out of the school bathroom with toilet paper dangling from his or her waistband. Does someone step forward and whisper a polite word, or do the other kids make fun? What happens in this pivotal moment will drive the story and have a deep impact on the main character.
• Revisit your earliest memories of learning about faith, religion, or spirituality.
• Use all of the following words in a poem: bit, draw, flex, perilous, bubble, corner, rancid, pound, high, open.
• Write a poem about a first romantic (dare I say sexual?) experience or encounter.
• Write a personal essay describing an exotic animal you’d like to have as a pet.
• Silvery flakes drifted downward, glittering in the bright light of the harvest moon. The blackbird soared.
• Write a tongue-in-cheek, satirical tribute. Tell bad drivers, rude customers, and evil dictators how grateful you are for what they’ve done. Do it with a wink and a smile.
• Write a story about a detective solving a crime that was committed against his or her partner or a crime that his or her partner committed.
• Three children are sitting on a log near a stream. One of them looks up at the sky and says…
• There is a magic talisman that allows its keeper to read minds. It falls into the hands of a young politician.
• We’ve seen cute and cuddly dragons, mean and vicious dragons, and noble dragons. Write a story about a different kind of dragon.
• Use all of the following words in a poem: dash, hard, staple, billboard, part, circle, flattened.
• Write a story set in the distant future when humanity is at a fork in the evolutionary road. Some humans are evolving; others are not.
• The kids were raised on the mantra “Family is everything.” What happens when they find out their parents aren’t who they pretended to be? Will the family fall apart?
• Write a poem about one (or both) of your parents. It could be a tribute poem, but it doesn’t have to be.
• Turn ordinary animals into monsters that prey on humans: dog-sized rats, killer rabbits, or a pack of rabid mountain lions. Give the animals intelligence and set them loose.
• A twinkling eye can mean many things. Write a poem about a twinkle in someone’s eye.
• What determines an action or person as good or evil? Who gets to decide what or who is good or evil? Write a personal essay about it.
• Write a poem about your body.
• The protagonist is about to drift off to sleep only to be roused by the spontaneous memory of an embarrassing moment from his or her past.
• Write about the happiest day of your life.
• Use all of the following words in a poem: feast, fire, modify, squash, robbed, forgotten, understated.

Now It’s Your Turn

Did any of these prompts inspire you? Do you ever use creative writing prompts to ignite a writing session? Tell us what gets your pen moving by leaving a comment, and keep writing!

To get more prompts like these, pick up a copy of  1200 Creative Writing Prompts   today.

236 Comments

Melissa, Wow, there’s something about this list that feels like a lightbulb went off! There are times when I feel stuck, like ideas aren’t there. And this list really shines what can be…limitless possibilities!

26. If my life were a cartoon… 27. Pick two crayons at random. What thoughts/feelings do two color stir up in you?

Ah, I love the feeling of a light bulb illuminating my mind! Thanks for adding to the list!

what about… That spark which seemed like a star, when it approached closer, my lips went white and body shivering despite the fact I knew I was placed in a desert – by them- and the sun shone directly above my head. Then at a distance of 1m probably, I got the sight of…

Thanks for sharing these.

If you have children, visualize one of them running the house for a day.

That’s a good one. Kids running the house…how very Dr. Seuss! Cat in the Hat without the cat, hehee.

Ooh, great prompts! Thanks for sharing these!

Thanks! Glad you like them!

A day in the life of a doormat

The adventures of a shooting star

Making friends with my enemy

Ooh, interesting! Thanks, Fouzia.

Hi Melissa,

Bought 3 of your books. 1. 101 Creative Writing Excercises 2.10 Core Practices For Better Writing and 3. 1,200 Creative Writing Prompts.

I decided to start with 1,200 Creative Writing Prompts.

So far, I have written 4 stories from the prompts. I guess I want to enquire as to whether I need to go through each prompt. Thank you

Wow, Kevin, thanks for getting three of my books. I truly appreciate that. You can use the prompts in any way that is comfortable for you. No, you do not have to go through each and every prompt. I encourage you to skip around, flip through book, and find prompts that inspire. I hope you have fun with it! Thanks again.

When I took my creative writing class in college the instructor gave us a really good one to use if we couldn’t think of what to write. She said to write the word Remember 3 times and that would prompt something. The entire class tried it and it worked and I have used it several times since then!

I like the use of remember . There are a lot of words that help people when they can’t think of anything to write about. Maybe I should do a list of single-word prompts. Hmm…

Wow. I was COMPLETELY stuck and this brought back a great story for me to write about, though only faintly attached to any memory of mine. Thanks!

That’s great, Camille! Good luck with your story!

I like to use the question “what would happen if …. ”

What would happen if your husband retired and your kid left home and you’re getting older? -> ” Always Faithful”

What would happen if a person moved back home to care for a relative after decades of living far away? -> “The Way Home”

What would happen if a person who has been divorced and alone for a long time suddenly met the most perfect mate imaginable … but it turns out the person may not be what she appears to be? -> “Baiting and Fishing”

In a way, I think “What Would Happen If…” is my novelist version of my favorite childhood game, “Let’s pretend that…..”

“What if” is the best creative writing prompt ever! You can apply it to just about any situation. Just look at any movie, book, or even real life and start asking, “What if things happened a little differently?” or “What if this person made a different decision?” Asking these questions can take your writing in all kinds of new and interesting directions! It’s great fun.

I love these. Here’s one:

“She was drifting off to sleep when there was a sharp knock at the door . . . “

Ooh, I like that one.

Fabulous list. I’ve been brainstorming all morning with no luck, and so I came online and VOILA, here you are. Loved the list, especially 22.

I’ve created several interesting works using my personal favourite “things to do on a rainy day”. I usually write from the perspective of a child, but rarely myself as a child. This one just opens up so many possibilities for make beleive!

Thanks, Melanie! Glad this list helped you in a time of need. My favorite “things to do on a rainy day” story is The Cat in the Hat . Of course, it’s a “day when mom’s away” rather than a “rainy day,” but it’s pretty much the same idea. Keep writing!

these are very great… i got this one off of True Jackson VP.. spin around and the first thing you see will give you an idea..

i just did this and i saw flowers…

i’m writing about “you are walking through a field with your best friend.. you spot a flower and pick it up.. it gives you super powers…

Ah, a flower that gives one super powers. I love that idea! You should definitely run with it!

I love True Jackson VP! Cool that you got an idea from it! 🙂

You’re suggestion really helped! Im doing imaginative writing for homework and I was so stuck but I’ve found the right one now!!

That’s awesome, Grace! Keep writing.

ooh those are cool… how about: He cradled her, taking in all of her burdens as he swept her hair back from her face and stroked her cheek in a gentle calming motion.

I do creative writing as an A level so it would be cool to know if this starter is ok! ty xoxo

Catherine, I think that’s a great starter line, especially for a romantic story or poem! My only suggestion would be the part “gentle calming motion.” There might be one too many adjectives there. If you keep both adjectives, be sure to add a comma after the first one: “gentle, calming motion.” Nice job!

A young man attempts to pull a robbery of some kind on an older man. Things go drastically wrong for the young man. Either viewpoint!

Either viewpoint, or both, could work!

what if the old man was a retired super spy and the young robber is homeless and broke. he tells this to the old man and the man trains him to be a good spy and lets the young robber live with him. then the old man gets the young robber a job as a spy and then they both find out that the retired spy is the young robbers father and the mother ran away while she was pregnant to go be with some rich guy but the rich guy killed the mother and the young robber has been living on the streets since he was 10.

Heres a gorgeous one! Write a story in the POV of a flower being given from person 2 person.

Interesting!

Wow! These are great, thanks for putting these up. I’m 12 and I really want to be a novelist when I grow up. One of my favourites is: the empty glass. It’s a bit over-used but I think that it’s so versatile, it doesn’t matter if it’s popular because you can take it in so many different directions!

That’s great, Katie! You’re off to an early start. Just stay focused and passionate, and you’ll become a novelist if that’s what you truly want. Good luck to you!

Katie, It is never too young to start living your dreams. Don’t ever let anyone get you down. Keep on writing and believe in yourself that one day you will make it! Best of luck!

I couldn’t agree more, AJ!

I’m 11 and everyone thinks I am a good writer and I love to write so much!

That’s wonderful, Maria. Keep writing!

I’m 16 and i wrote a great alternate ending for an assignment in english, and i wrote a short christmas story on christmas eve, but now i just don’t know what to write about. i have ideas and i have been reading prompts that are good but i just don’t know.

Kristi, give the prompts a try. There are also lots of writing exercises that you can use to spark writing sessions when you’re feeling uninspired. The trick is to write something (anything) rather than sit around waiting for something to write about.

Hi! I am 14 and just wanted to do some creative writing, but could not think of anything to write about. Thank you so much for the ideas! I will definitely be using some.

You’re so welcome! Good luck with your writing!

I’m 14 and writing is my whole life. I recently started a blog with my friend, but she’s not a writer. She just inspires me with ideas and stuff. I love your site, Melissa. I check it almost every day. Your prompts and tips are so completely helpful! Thanks so much!

Thank you! I appreciate your kind words.

I’m fourteen, too, and writing is hard to juggle with school and everything else that’s going on. I know – such a teenager-y thing to say…but true nonetheless. I just wanted to say thank you for posting these prompts because they make for quick, satisfying writing that doesn’t end in frustration (at least, mostly). Thanks again!

Writing is hard to juggle at any age. It takes a lot of perseverance, but if you stick with it, you’ll succeed. Good luck to you, and keep on writing!

Im also fourteen and i love to write! i have won a national competition 2 years in a row and i never dreamed i would have won or anything but that just goes to show that youre never too young to write! Just keep believing in yourself and who knows where you might go!

I am thrilled when young people are so passionate about writing (or any craft, really). Congratulations on your success!

One good place to find good story prompts are the obituaries of a large newspaper. One true example: from the Arizona Republic years ago, an elderly gentleman got hit by a motorist one a late, rainy afternoon as he was crossing the street. He had been an immigrant from Norway, and had been a professor at ASU, and was retired and in his 80’s when he died. I have always imagined what his life had been, what he had experienced, etc.

Yes, newspapers are packed with story ideas!

Write a story from the perspective of a sock being separated from its twin in the laundry.

That would make a great children’s story.

a person went to the football stadium and was wearing manu shirt and came out with a barcalona shirt.why???

Well, I have no idea, but this certainly makes a good writing prompt!

I love these!! 😀 Here are a few I made: *Make up your own recipes for your favorite foods *Create your own list of idioms *Write stories of idioms literally happening *Write about something blue *What’s your idea of a perfect vacation? *List what you fear. pick a few and write how they came, why, and when you got the fear first *What would you say to an univited guest at your party *Draw a picture of the setting around you. Now look into your inner being. What do you truly feel? *Write from the point of view of a stack of paper waiting a few inches from the shredder *Her laugh broke the silence…

These are great! Thank you for adding them to the list.

By the way, I’m 11, love writing, and hope to publish fiction teen/children books one day

I wish you the best of luck! You have a head start, being such a young writer. Stick with it!

Lovarsnari,that’s kinda funny because l think the same thing! 🙂 My prob is that l start writing with great ideas,get stuck, and then start a new story/play….

same except that I’m 13 and mix my writing with my guitar playing and music

Well when i get stuck I like to think: What would I do if I were to die in a week? Once I picked everything and it turned quite an interesting story…

That’s a good one!

Hey I’m 14 years old and I love writing but I get writers block often and this really helped me. I love reading the ideas and other people’s ideas they are just very interesting. Number 19 seemed the most interesting to me and I’m almost done with my story. 🙂 thanks so much

Thanks, Violet. I often find that prompts and exercises can be used in different ways. You don’t always have to do the actual exercise. Sometimes, just reading through a book of exercises will generate ideas for a project I’m working on or help me understand a writing concept in a new way. Good luck with your story!

Hi Melissa 🙂 Last year i won junior writer of the year ( I’m 13) and I am entering this year as well and in the process of creating my first draft. I love your site and its wonderful, all-inclusive feel. So, here are my ideas for your list.

26. Post-War oppression & depression ( this was my winning topic last year – i wrote it from the perspective of a scarred war veterans’ emotionally abused child) I also commend you in your point concerning finding hope and light in darkness ( war, death, etc.) and i am going to write about that! Possibly with an Amish girl as the protagonist? thank you again for inspiring me. I also hope to be a great writer some day. Bee

Congratulations, Bee, and thanks for adding to these prompts. I wish you the best of luck in becoming a great writer. You are certainly well on your way!

POV of a toy sitting on a shelf in a toy store, hoping to be purchased.

your pet starts talking to you in perfect english and tells you what he/she really thinks of you…. what does he/she say?

Ha! That could be enlightening indeed!

I actually saw an animated short based on that premise (or something similar to it) and found it quite compelling. A great idea!

My contribution:

“When I look in the mirror, I don’t see what everyone else sees. What I see is…”

Nice! Thanks for adding this prompt, Nick.

My college English teacher gave my class this prompt. First Line: John closed his eyes. Last Line: It was a good day for the yellow crocuses. Anything in between. I easily made five pages with that prompt. Have fun guys.

Thanks for sharing that prompt, Jessy. It’s a good one.

Im a 17 year old living in the most secluded area of Kentucky, unfortunately. lol My dream is to pursue a career in filmmaking, my goal is to help people who are confused or unsure about life and what they want to do with their oppourtunity of life. I want people to think and find happiness in their lives by doing something they love. My idea of doing this came from being in a depressed state from the past few years as a teen and felt strong enough to overcome it without professional help which is progressing for the good. I found setting goals is a great strategy to stay focused and optimistic about life. I appreciate your time for reading this and if there is any advice you could influence me with id appreciate that as well. Thanks

It’s wonderful that you have set your sights on a clear career path at such a young age. Filmmaking is awesome! I sometimes wish I had taken up an interest in film or photography. The best advice I can offer is to never give up, stay focused, and pursue your goals with heart and soul. I would also advise studying film at college, if you can. The film industry is notoriously networked and you’ll benefit greatly by making friends and acquaintances who share your interest. Best of luck to you!

Thanks for taking the time to reply, it’s very much appreciated and yes im going to film school out in LA next year.

Hi! I am 13 and have been writing since I was 7 or younger, and I am in love with writing. I am a very dedicated author and I have finished books in the past (about 11 or 12) but now I can’t seem to get into any longer stories! I write more short stories now, but it’s not satisfying anymore…and then, when I come up with a new idea, it’s useless, and my brain gets all cluttered! Help!

It sounds like you’re having trouble staying focused. The first (and most important) thing that can help with that is to stay healthy: eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep. You may also need to break up your writing with other activities. Make sure you read regularly! For the time being, maybe you need to write short stories. I’m not sure you need to fight it.

thank you for the advice! 🙂

You are most welcome!

Hello 🙂 I am 17 and doing my HSC this year. I am attempting (unsuccessfully) to write a creative writing piece as practice for my exams, and thank you so much for these, they’re really helpful 🙂 I am not a writer (and never will be), but these have given me some great ideas that I can hopefully use to increase my writing skills for my exams. So thank you very much 🙂

You are very welcome, Emily, and best of luck on your exams.

I’ve found that this list, and peoples comments/ideas have been quite inspiring. I’m 21 and haven’t been in school for a few years and I have that desire to write, but never knew how to get started. I thank you all for these wonderful ideas and I’m hoping that writing will be a good outlet for me and my struggle with depression.

So really I’m just thanking you all 🙂

You’re welcome, Nicole, and thank you for joining in the discussion. Writing is a great way to work through emotions; I wish you the best of luck!

These are great!!!! My favourite starter would definetly have to be: “Sometimes a girl just has to run. Sometimes our feet take over. This was one of those times”

I think it holds a lot of suspense but it could also be happy and bright, like a sports day or carnival. Thanks for adding these, I am going to try to write a story for each one.

I’m not sure where that starter comes from, but it sounds good to me.

Hi! Thanks so much for these prompts. I especially like number two, because I feel like a little bit of positive thinking can go a long way. 🙂

I have a question, too, if you don’t mind.

What is your opinion on fanfictions? I know some creative writers don’t like them and feel they corrupt a series, while others think it’s a great creative exercise.

Thanks so much!

I think fan fiction is a great way for young and new writers to explore the craft. Some copyright holders are extremely strict about allowing fan fiction to be published. Others will actually develop and publish collections of fan fiction. There are also franchises in which fan fiction is encouraged. One of my all-time favorite writers, TV and film writer Damon Lindelof, said in a recent interview that he started out writing fan fiction. Now he’s writing for Ridley Scott and working on the Star Trek films as a fan-fic professional! It’s definitely an avenue worth pursuing if it interests you.

I’m fifteen and I want to write a book before the end of highschool. The problem is I can’t finish what I’ve started. I always find a “better” idea and write about that and the cycle begins again. Please help me!!!

The only way to finish what you’ve started is to simply finish it. When “better” ideas present themselves, make a note and file those ideas away for a future project. Part of being a writer involves developing self-discipline. I recommend setting up a reward system. For example, you have to work on the novel for 20 minutes before you can call or text your friends after school. Or you have to finish a scene before you go out to see a movie. These are self-imposed rewards, so you have to discipline yourself. Nobody else can do it for you.

You might also look into participating in NaNoWriMo. The timing is great because it starts in just a few weeks. That means you’ll have some time to prepare and check it out. Then you can write your novel in November, leaving plenty of time afterwards for you to clean it up (edit, proof, polish).

Finally, if you’re truly committed to writing, start looking at schools with good creative writing programs and plan to study at college. University instructors are quite helpful in teaching students self-discipline and good writing habits and practices.

Best of luck to you, Art!

Hi! Your prompts and the comments have really helped me! I can’t wait to start some stories from them:) Here are a couple that I’ve come up with: The Bell sounded. Workers froze in their places… Kay frowned as she opened her school locker after school. Down the hall, Alexis and Christine exchanged grins…

That’s great, Alyssa. Keep up the good work!

These are fantastic! I’m also 21 and have been out of school for awhile. I used to write all the time when I was in school but not so much these days. These ideas are really going to help once I get started writing again. I’m attempting to set a goal for myself. An hour a day, just writing whatever I want. Just to get me back in the habit.

Thank you so much!!!

One prompt my creative writing teacher in high school gave the class was “It was a smile that darkness could kill…”

That’s wonderful! An hour a day is enough to produce quite a bit of writing. I wish you the best of luck, Ashlee!

Obviously it is now 2011 haha, but these are great!! I have wanted to write a novel for quite some time but I can’t seem to get the creative juices flowing. So I set out on a quest across the World Wide Web and I am finding some amazing ideas!! Thank you so much for this website I look forward to writing now instead of despairing of that dreaded cursor blinking me to oblivion!!

I hope your quest for inspiration is fruitful! And keep writing!

I’ve just been inspired to start a personal blog full of my own creative writing, with the assistance of some of these wonderful writing prompts (both yours, and the ones left in the comment section). Thank you, thank you, thank you.

That’s wonderful! Blogs have been a boon for writers, and I think more writers should take advantage of the technology. I wish you the best of luck with your blog, Emily.

Hi, I’m 17. I started creative writing when I was about 10 or 11. I found myself writing more and more when I was troubled a few years back, so it was good stress relief for me. But now that I’m busy with college, I realize that I haven’t been writing as much as I used to. I reread some of my old work and I thought “Hey, why not? I’ll give it a try for old times’ sake.”

I was a bit confused with where to start off, but these prompts really got my creative juices flowing. After I post this comment, I think I’ll try one or two of them and see how far it takes me. Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂

I’m so glad that these prompts inspired you, Christi. I think many writers go through phases when they drift away from the craft, but when you’re called back to it, that might be a sign. Follow it and keep writing!

In my junior year of high school, we were given a creative writing assignment to expand on this sentence:

“A person walked into the room, looked around, sat down, and ate.”

That’s a great prompt. It would certainly be interesting to see what a whole classroom of people come up with. I imagine each piece of writing would be quite different from the others, even though they are all based on the same premise. Thanks for sharing it, Alli.

Here’s a prompt! Prop open the door. I can actually see my breathe tonight. But that doesnt mean im breathing.

Ooh, sounds like a zombie, robot, or vampire story.

These writing ideas helped a lot thank you. I really want to go to a creative writing school when I get older. One idea which I just came up with is Write from the perspective of your fish.( does each fish have there own personality, how does each fish react to the different members of the house, what is it like to be a fish) 😛 I hope you like I write often mostly stories with a more poetic base, but once in a while i will feel in the mood to write some thing different. Oh also try continuing after this sentence. Its eyes gleamed pitch black death, creeping into imaginary, azure skies. now continue it :3

Thanks for sharing your prompt, Samantha, and good luck to you!

For school, I have to enter a creative writing competition. I have two days and i was really panicking but then i found this website! It really helped! Thankyou Writing Forward!!

Hannah, I’m so glad you found help and inspiration here. Thank you!

Lately I’ve been trying to write a lot like Sarah Dessen! Were doing stories in class and I’m doin one about a girl who runs away, it starts out “I’m on the run! I don’t know where I’m going or where I’ll end up, but I’m not turning back!” 🙂 Do you like it?

I do like your opening line. It certainly grabs the reader’s attention and rouses curiosity. Nice job.

Thank you so much!!!! This got me over my terrible case of writer’s block. But now my muse is back!

Wow, thanks, Maria. That’s awesome!

I just want to say that this list of prompts has inspired me to take on a challenge of using one every day up until xmas on my blog… or at least until the end of the month!

Thanks for the great list 🙂

That’s awesome, Julz. Good luck with your December writing!

I haven’t tried it yet, but I think a fun way to mix these up even more would be to choose one of these, then draw the name of an author out of a hat, then write that prompt in the style of that author. That would really stretch your creativity.

That’s an excellent exercise and would definitely be challenging. You’d have to be deeply familiar with the author’s voice.

I have found these prompts really helpful for the English lessons that I teach.

Many thanks.

That’s great, Cass. I love the idea of these prompts helping students with reading and writing.

i have learnt English as a second language…writing is my passion…this page is REALLY inspiring!thanks for evoking our creative faculties… i want to suggest some topics and the list goes as: 1The beast in me 2Daily journal of a pair of shoes which is in the process of its making 3What the world be if gender roles get changed 4What if i were in the shoes of my English teacher 5How things at the high school are going to be if the concept of beauty gets altered altogether 6It is said that writing is all about pouring your mind on a piece of paper but what it your pen literally starts articulating your thoughts and you end up writing EVERRRRYTHING(What consequences are you going to face)

Thanks for adding your ideas to these prompts!

I haven’t tried the prompts yet but I have always wanted to be a writer since I was eight years old. However ever since graduating and entering the real world I find my muse being choked to death by the responsibility at home. I’ve had to give up my dream of writing for the past two years. I tried taking it up again and was drawing a huge blank, but just by reading a few of these prompts I’ve felt my muse start to breathe. Thank you!

Hi Rochelle. I remember graduating and entering the real world, and I had a similar experience. All of a sudden I just didn’t have the time or inspiration. It took a while, but I adjusted and my creativity returned. I’m so glad you found these prompts helpful!

I found like 5 great writing prompts thank u so much

You are so welcome!

you thought dragoons unicorns and monsters didnt exist? think again! write story of your pet unicorn

That’s a cute idea!

Thank you for these, I am a writer waiting to hear if a publisher is going to publish my novel. Waiting is so hard and my mind has gone blank. These help to stir the jucies again. I’m hand writing them in a note book and taking them with me when I’m out, to write on the go. When I have to wait for a kid to get to the car I can write and not have to figure out how to start a story. So thank you. so much.

That’s awesome. What is it about being in a car or shower that makes us more creative? I always get ideas in those two locations!

thanks sooo much! those were super helfull! you have the most helpfull website ive found! and i’m a picky writer! THANKYOU!!!

Thanks, Anna.

here are some more ideas: you inherit 1 million dollars your backpack grows wings on the way to school a zombie invasion stikes your small/big town a kidnapper captures you … hope these help 🙂

Thanks, Ebony!

Hey! These prompts really helped and I can’t wait to use some 🙂 I have started with the one about twinklling eyes and turned it into a story about creatures similar to werewolves XD

Sounds interesting, Molly! Good luck with your story, and keep writing!

My English teacher says she doesn’t believe in writer’s block. I on the other hand am not so sure. Sometimes I sit in the afternoon and stare out the window, unable to come up with anything good but I find that ideas flow like crazy at two in the morning with a cup of coffee in my left hand. That’s always my best remedy, though writing prompts like these always help me get going. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Some prompts:

10 things I hate about… What’s the recipe for those wonderful _______ muffins you baked last night? (Try filling that blank with ‘unicorn’.)

I believe in writer’s block, but I think that it’s presented as being unable to write whereas usually it’s just a case of needing to work a little harder at writing. Sometimes, we need to stop procrastinating, stop trying to force our ideas, or we just need to allow ourselves to write badly for a while. I believe there are ideas everywhere; the trick is to keep ourselves open to them and be willing to explore them. Having said all that, writer’s block still sucks. I’m like you, Maluly, the ideas flow like crazy at two in the morning (no coffee required!).

i dont believe in writiers block.. i think its more like an exuse to hide what we really want to write or say. Like sometimes peoploe wonder if it will be good enough so they put it off or they dont want people who read it to know something.. its all about the way you look at it i guess. Write what you feel. Write whatever you want. I love writing but i find myself wondering will this be good enough? What would someone think if they read it? Maybe thats just me. no self esteem… but, low selfesteem is what keeps creativity hidden…. my advice.. to everyone is to just go for it. if its not good try again you’ll get better(:

I agree: just go for it.

Thanks for these! I definitely believe in writer’s block!! In fact, I am just emerging from what I like to call writer’s ‘droubt’, since it lasted at least a year. But I don’t think you need to be blocked to use prompts. They are great exercises and get you to try new ways of writing. And sometimes, when I get burned out with the story I’m currently writing, it helps to focus on something completely different for a while, and you can come back to it with fresh eyes. Here are some prompts that I came up with and they helped me out: 1) ‘It all started with the cat…’ 2) ‘Have you ever seen something out of the corner of your eye, but when you turned to look, found nothing there? You dismiss it as an illusion, a trick of the light. You’re wrong…’ 3) Write something from the perspective of a ghost. 4) Write something using the five senses EXCEPT sight (hearing, smell, touch, taste) 5) Instead of using first or third person, write with second person point-of-view (in other words, use ‘you’ instead of ‘he/she’ or ‘I’. Or try writing in present or even future tense, instead of past tense.

Oh yeah, and one more: 6) Write something from the perspective of the BAD guy, instead of the hero

I love when stories do this! Thanks for adding it, CJM.

These are excellent prompts, especially well suited for speculative fiction writers. My favorite is the prompt about seeing something out of the corner of your eye (that happens to me sometimes!). Thanks for adding these.

Here’s one for those of you who have pets What do your pets do when you and other inhabitants of your house are not at home?

Ooh, that’s a good one, Lily. That could be great for a children’s story!

Thank you SO much for these exciting writing prompts! They really inspire me. I have one idea for a prompt: Write about a conversation that you would have if were stuck in an elevator with a celebrity or famous book character.

You’re welcome, Arieda. I love your elevator prompt! You could also do it with characters from your novel as a test to see how each would behave in an elevator with a celebrity. That could tell you a lot about your characters. Good one!

Lovely ideas, both of these! Arieda, that prompt gave me a short story idea, one that I’m pretty excited about, and I’m definitely going to have to do that with all my characters now, Melissa. 🙂 I thought up another twist on this prompt that intrigues me: Your characters get stuck in an elevator with you, their author. How do they react when they discover who you are and that you control their destinies? What sort of conversations would you have? Would you like interacting with your character? Would your character like you?

Hannah, I love your prompt idea. What a fun writing exercise: The Character Meets the Author. That’s quite brilliant!

Thank you so much for these, I’m trying to write a book…and I’ve been at a stand still lately, so this will help me more than ever.

You’re welcome, Alexis. I’m glad you found these prompts helpful.

Hi Ms. Donovan! thank you so much for the writing prompts! i’ve been using them for all my english creative writing assignments. it’s been my dream to be a writer since i was little. although i find it hard to write mysteries. ironically it’s my favorite genre to read though. any advice on how to get started on a good mystery?

I myself haven’t written mysteries, although I have read a few. My suggestion would be to read as many mysteries as you can, and watch mystery films and television shows, so you thoroughly know your genre (you should still read other stuff too!). Study the greats and ideas will come to you!

Wow i have writers block i have my charecter but i dont know what the problem is…… help any good title ideas?

When I’m stuck and can’t come up with a character or a title, I just skip it. The important thing is to keep writing. You can always come back later and add names and titles. Here’s how I do it:

GIRL said that there was no way out but OLD LADY knew otherwise…

I use all caps for characters who don’t have names yet. Many writers use a “working title” as they are developing their project. A working title can be anything. It’s just temporary.

You’ll find that as you work on your project (and if you work around these little setbacks), ideas will come to you. Good luck!

Awesome post:) Thanks so much, really helped! have a great day! Peace-Jeff

Thanks, Jeff!

A prompt could be : She started to fall over and _________( fill in the blank) picked her up.

or : The alien gaze stared from above the fence , and I blushed in embarrassment.

100 words about your favorite animal

a short story about a difficult topic like : war , famine , bullying .etc

a poem about the weather

Hi Melody! Thanks for adding your prompts to this ever-growing list!

Your prompts are definitely creative and helpful, but what I’m most impressed with is how you respond so positively and encouragingly to everyone who replied to this. Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of encouragement or approval from even a complete stranger to shift a young writers thought from maybe being able to do something to just doing it. I haven’t written in months, and are still my having any real luck, but I know I will write again someday, and I just thought it should be mentioned that you are a good person for encouraging others to do what they love. Best of luck to you…

Thank you so much, Shannon. Your words mean a lot to me. I try to be an advocate for writers and encourage young and new writers to explore their ideas and find their voices. I believe the world would be a better place if we all followed our passions, and more importantly, encouraged others to do so as well.

“Conundrum”

The little girl cries with a lie on her lips The girl can’t remember her name The little boy’s laugh rings with hollow self-doubt The little girl feels just the same A little dog lost in the thick of the woods A little man sick with dismay A little boy born in the arms of the girl A little life born from a day A little death born from an ignorant choice A little boy crying away And a little God laughs at the sight of it all For this little herd has not a say

Thanks for sharing your poem with us, Conner. Keep writing!

It’s the first time that i’m gonna be doing an inter-school creative writing competition, and i found these prompts really helpful! Thanks a billion!

You’re welcome!

Really like the prompts! It was really helpful! My brother and I are always gonna use this website! I <3 it!

Thanks! I’m glad you like it here 🙂

Thanks Melissa for the writing prompts. I asked my students to develop their writing skill through these useful prompts. By the way, I have published my first fiction ‘Faith No More’. I’d be extremely glad if you could manage to read any of it and provide me with feedback.

Hi Afshin. Thanks for sharing these prompts with your students. Requests for feedback should be sent via email (you can use the “Contact” link at the top of this site).

i have been major struggling with writing my second book and when i found these i just opened up my mind more and i decided not to write a second book it was just fine without one and now i can be on a whole other spectrum thanks so much these has inspired me a lot i put a few of em together to get ideas 🙂 well done 🙂 highly appreciated

That’s awesome. Thanks for letting me know that these prompts helped you. Good luck with your writing projects!

I just got a typewriter at a great market the other day so I came looking for something to help me have fun and get inspired while I was using it. Thanks for the help! I ended up writing a thing about an embarrassing moment that helped me learn how to not sweat it when embarrassing moments happen. This particular one had to do with toilet paper… haha. Cheers!

Embarrassing moments always make for good storytelling. Enjoy your new typewriter!

I’ve been really into playwriting lately, but I’ve been stuck with writers block for the longest time. A couple of these prompts really caught my attention and I’ve already got so many new ideas, I don’t know where to begin! 🙂

That’s awesome. I’m glad you found this piece so helpful.

I have had writers block for months now. This site has helped me so much!

I’m thrilled to hear that! Keep writing!

My favorite way to start up a story is to listen to a song and think about the story of it. Sometimes I use the first part of the song as the first sentence of my story. I hope this helps.

That’s an awesome idea! I love music-literature crossovers.

Hi thank you so much for these ideas i have chosen an idea and i have a perfect picture of my idea . Thank you again and as you will see on all of your comments you have helped a lot of children or adults from this website . Thank you !

You’re welcome! Thanks for commenting.

Great prompts.

I shared #9 with my page for a fun writing exercise about an hour ago. Great response! 🙂

Thanks for sharing one of these prompts with your readers. I hope they have fun with it.

Thanks for the prompts! Reading other people’s ideas always makes me feel more hopeful about initiating my own. I have struggled to put my thoughts down on paper for as long as I can remember- there just seems to be a disconnect between the disorganized chaos of possibilities in my head and that little spot where the ink meets the paper. BUT- I wanted to offer an idea that has often provided many interesting and fun possibilities to me- Think of a time of day ( 7 pm, the sun setting, the day cooling off, night creatures beginning to stir), or a month ( August, the air laden with heat and damp, everything deep and green and vibrant), and then try to think of all the qualities that accompany that period of time ( do most people seem happy then? is it a relaxing time? a tense time? does the weather make life easier or harder?). Once you’ve collected as many descriptions and feelings about this time as you can, then begin to build a world where it is ALWAYS that time- how do people’s lives change? 🙂

Ooh, that’s a great exercise. I wasn’t expecting the twist at all! Love it.

This is awesme. i like these. i like writing prompts, and this is a very helpful website

Thanks! I’m glad you liked these prompts.

omg wow, this helped me so much, thankyou so much!! i love my writing and this just helped me ten fold. xxx

You’re welcome. I’m glad you found it helpful.

I’ve been writing since i was eight, [approximately (obviously – i haven’t been counting!)] but I started to loose it… flame was REIGNITED by my best friend. but despite the burning, I have never actually completed a story. It knaws at me all the time! I’m currently writing a revolutionary/Sci-fi, which is odd for me, I’m more into writing realist novels… but your prompts gave me such a PERFECT plot twist that I had to comment on it! this will give me motivation for at least a few weeks… (meanwhile dancing up and down with sheer joy and attracting VERY weird looks.) Though it IS kind of weird, because non of the prompts have anything to do with it… My, how strangely the mind works…

Yes, the mind works in mysterious ways. I’m glad one of these prompts inspired you. Best of luck with your story (I love sci-fi).

This website is a life saver. My brain just froze and I was trying to do a creative writing story, and my life and my school / collage life depended on it. Thanks to one of your prompts, it won my school a pride. Thanks a lot. 🙂 bye!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Whoops I meant prize

That’s awesome, Tierrney! Congrats on winning a prize. Keep writing!

wow great writing promts, ive already decided on the start of my story but I cant think of anything that can happen. I want something to happen. HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Try throwing some conflict at your main character. Good luck to you!

Wow!! I tried prompt number one just for fun one day, I have not exercised my creative mind in a long time, and I want to thank you for offering these prompts. I really surprised myself at the poem I wrote. It probably wouldnt go over to well with the grammar police because I used old english and standard english.. but the content just really surprised me. I was like, “where did that come from”? Thank you so much!!!! Blessings and Thanks to you for your website!

Thanks for your kind words, Kathleen. I’m so glad you found inspiration here!

thank you so much i found 3 ideas for a school project i am working on this is going to be one of my most big acomplishments!

You’re welcome! Good luck with your project.

i love this website because it helped me get an A on my project!!! i am soo thankfull to WRITING FORWARD!!! thank you sooo much and i am sooo confident that i will be sure to use this website again….thanX a million luv WRIGHTING FORWARD~~kbb

You’re welcome. Congratulations on getting such a good grade!

Writing comes from the mind and obviously the ideas comes from our real life….The story of mystery novels always comes from the fear we have in our minds and it can come from everything… I can remember the things…when I wrote my first poem ‘Rain’…it was raining in cats and dogs outside…..

I think writing comes from many places. I try not to over-analyze it, but it is interesting to examine our ideas and try to figure out where they came from.

I really like your ideas but I had some of my own that I think you could add to your list. You could add things like:

You’re outside cutting your grass when you come across a large hole in the ground. You’ve never noticed the hole before, but it looks to be some sort of tunnel to another world. You decide to peek through and see where it leads, only it leads you to a pivotal moment in your past—and it’s giving you an opportunity to change it. Write this scene.

A toy, stuffed animal, or game that once meant a lot to me

Why I deserve a larger allowance

The book that got me hooked on reading

This really bugs me.

One thing I want to do by the time I finish 8th grade

I would like to have lived during this time in history.

Thanks for adding these writing prompts, Shreya.

Start your story with: Jessica had no choice. She closed her eyes and jumped.

You might be surprised.

Ah, that’s an interesting prompt.

Here one possibly

What if you woke up one day with no memories in a strange world where nobody was who they said they were?

Wow! I really like this list of prompts! I’ve been looking for inspiration to write a short story and I especially liked the one about dragons! “We’ve all seen cute and cuddly dragons, mean and vicious dragons, and noble dragons write about a different dragon”

Thanks, Meredith! I’m glad you liked these writing prompts.

Anyone considered using visual (photos/paintings) prompts?

A scenic view, a city view, a beach, a hill, a house, a village, a car, a train, a plane, a boat, a castle, a body?

Yes, I’ve used visual prompts, and I’ve included them in my book, 1200 Creative Writing Prompts . The image prompts are described (rather than using images), but they’re a lot of fun.

Hi I’m Hallie I’m 13 years old and I love writing. Just for some reason I can never think of things to write about. I really like fantasy. I look online for writing prompt ideas and I find a lot of good ones but none of them really click. I really want to write something but I don’t know what. What should I do?

Hi Hallie. Thanks for visiting Writing Forward. What you’re experiencing is fairly common among writers. I have experienced it many times — when I want to write but I don’t know what to write and nothing clicks, I will look through prompts and my old notes, and I just don’t get fired up about anything.

I’ve found that in moments like these, the best thing to do is just write anyway. We can’t feel inspired and fired up all the time. And often, when I force myself to just follow some prompt or writing exercise, even when I don’t really feel like it, I start to get into it and eventually, something clicks.

There will be many times when writing is fun or even thrilling. But I’ve found that the people who stick with writing are those who write even when they’re not especially inspired. Sometimes it’s work. Stick with it, and you’ll experience all these highs and lows. Every single one of them is worth it.

Wow! I really like the diversity of your prompts, Mellisa. I’ve been writing a collection of short stories of my childhood experience of the Biafran War in Nigeria and struggled with some troubling memories but you’ve reminded me that I could just write everything as it comes to me and revise later. Also, I love your children stories prompts.

Thank you, Edit. That makes my day. I’m always glad when people find the articles here at Writing Forward useful. Good luck with your stories. That sounds like an important project.

is it weird that when i saw the one on dragons the first thought to my mind is ‘ i counld do one on a gay dragon, right?’ and then when i saw number 4 ( for all the twilight fans, just a heads up), i thought of jasper hale- i’m not calling him ugly- but i saw the fear part and thought to myself how he fears hurting someone/ losing control.

Is it weird? I don’t think it’s weird. The point of the prompts is to engage your imagination, so it seems like they are working, which is great.

I absolutely love these! I have been writing since I was able to talk. I told my dad exactly what to write down on little pieces of paper. Now that I’m fourteen, I was sure I wrote every idea imaginable. But these really gave me a fresh perspective, and for that, I am so grateful! It also inspired me to come up with a prompt of my own: She sprinted through the trees, quickly twisting around thick trunks as she dodged the sheriff’s arrows. Her stomach ached from the laughs that shook her entire body. Foolish sheriff. He thought he could catch a pirate?

I’m glad you enjoyed these writing prompts. Your prompt is awesome. Keep writing! It will take you places that only you can imagine.

I loved these prompts. I had my friends pick a number between 1 and 25 to chose which on to do. I think they improved my writing skills. Thank you!

I’m glad you enjoyed these prompts, Nora. Thanks for your comment.

I am a 13 year old and I love to write. I have a best friend and she always wants to see my writing, but I didn’t want her to see it because I didn’t think it was very good. She insisted on seeing it, and when I showed her the first chapter in a story I was writing just for myself, she thought it was brilliant. She then disguised it as an excerpt from an e-book app and showed it to our English teacher. My friend pretended that it was a real, published book by an actual author and asked for the teacher’s opinion. The teacher loved it and asked for the name of the book. When she discovered it was written by her own pupil, she was shocked and said i should send it to a publisher. Now I am confused. I didn’t think my writing was very good. What should I do now?

Hi Sam. I was your age when I started writing.

There are a few things you might want to do. First, continue working on your book until it’s finished. This will be hard. You will probably lose interest at some point. You’ll get stuck and feel unsure where to take the story. You’ll have other ideas that seem better, and you’ll be tempted to set this story aside. Don’t be deterred. Stick with it.

Do your parents know about your interest in writing? At 13, you would need their involvement in any publishing or submissions that you might want to do. You can also try talking to your teacher. Don’t be shy about this. It’s the job of teachers to guide their students. But keep in mind, not all English teachers are knowledgeable about the publishing industry. See if she can offer some guidance. You might be able to find literary magazine for kids your age and submit your writing so you can start getting some practice in the publishing world.

Beyond that, make sure you read a lot and write as much you can. If you love writing, it’s something that will always be with you. As you get older, you’ll be able to carve out the path you want, whether that’s to make writing a career or continue enjoying it as a hobby.

Best of luck to you!

I am 10 and I have written a few short stories of my own, and I really enjoy creative writing. I was very pleased when I found this website, now I won’t be struggling to think about what to write.

That’s wonderful, Kaiya. We love having young writers around here. Thanks so much!

I’m 12 and I also really like writing. I have always been trying to write short stories since I was six (I started with mostly seven page picture books). Finding how to start a story has always been pretty hard, but these prompts have really helped! I definitely have to explore some more of these prompts. There are so many! Thank you!!

Wow, Naomi, that’s wonderful. I was just a little older than you (13) when I started writing (poetry for me). You have a long and wonderful journey ahead of you, and I hope you enjoy all of it! You’re welcome for these prompts. I’m so glad you found them helpful.

Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful post with us.

the one that has the tailsman remids me of “Wings of Fire” because one of the dragons named darkstalker put is animus magic on a scroll and called it his tailsman and he can read minds so it really reminded me of that book

I haven’t read Wings of Fire but it sounds interesting!

oh and it fell into the wrong hands or really talons but ya i just wanted to share that information thank you for this i really got some good ideas like the detective one

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• fun for writers | Starla Kaye - [...] Writing Forward: creative writing prompts. [...]
• October 14, 2011: Write about nature. CWE 11 | icanseealotoflifeinyou - [...] http://www.writingforward.com/writing-prompts-3/creative-writing-prompts/25-creative-writing-prompts [...]
• The Ruby Slippered Sisterhood - [...] A few weeks ago, I had fun with a great little prompt I found on a blog called Writing…
• this may call for a proper introduction « arcane den of written words - [...] huge. Just a few ideas I’ve had recently. I found a really great collection of prompts here, you should…
• Writing Prompt Resources (Links galore!) – The Talers - […] https://www.writingforward.com/writing-prompts/creative-writing-prompts/25-creative-writing-prompts […]
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Articles on Creative writing

Displaying 1 - 20 of 46 articles.

UK’s creative industries bring in more revenue than cars, oil and gas – so why is arts education facing cuts?

Adam Behr , Newcastle University

An ode to the social realism of ‘boring’ lyrics – from The Kinks to The Streets

Glenn Fosbraey , University of Winchester

How to write a love song – three tips for beginners from a songwriting expert

‘ Cli-fi ’ might not save the world, but writing it could help with your  eco-anxiety

Rachel Hennessy , The University of Melbourne ; Alex Cothren , Flinders University , and Amy T Matthews , Flinders University

I research the therapeutic qualities of writing about art – here are three steps for trying it yourself

Patrick Wright , The Open University

Creative writing can help improve one’s health: a South African study shows how

Dawn Garisch , University of Cape Town and Steve Reid , University of Cape Town

Boxing empowered me to express my trauma – now, I help other abuse survivors do the same, combining it with creative writing

Donna Lyon , The University of Melbourne

How a poet and professor promotes racial understanding with lessons from history

Quraysh Ali Lansana , Oklahoma State University

How to understand your grief through writing

Catherine Cole , Liverpool John Moores University

Write what you know: the COVID experience is a rich resource for year 12 English exams

Janet Dutton , Macquarie University

5 ways to teach the link between grammar and imagination for better creative writing

Brett Healey , Curtin University

Writing can improve mental health – here’s how

Christina Thatcher , Cardiff Metropolitan University

In an AI world we need to teach students how to work with robot writers

Lucinda McKnight , Deakin University

To succeed in an AI world, students must learn the human traits of writing

‘Lit therapy’ in the classroom: writing about trauma can be valuable, if done right

Yannick Thoraval , RMIT University

Too many adjectives, not enough ideas: how NAPLAN forces us to teach bad writing

What my students taught me about reading: old books hold new insights for the digital generation

Kate Flaherty , Australian National University

Life sentences – what creative writing by prisoners tells us about the inside

Dr Michael X. Savvas , Flinders University

Frozen in time, the casts of Indigenous Australians who performed in ‘human zoos’ are chilling

Katherine Johnson , University of Tasmania

‘I’m in another world’: writing without rules lets kids find their voice, just like professional authors

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Associate professor, Deakin University

Associate Professor in Media, University of Notre Dame Australia

PhD Student, School of Education, Curtin University

Executive Dean (interim) Faculty of Arts and Design, University of Canberra

Lecturer in Creative Writing, University of Southern Queensland

Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing, University of Stirling

Associate Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Winchester

Dean of Research (Creative), University of South Australia

Honorary Associate in Creative Writing, The Open University

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Proud to be Primary

Be inspired, motivate kids, and make a positive impact in your classroom.

9:00 am By Proud to be Primary Leave a Comment

Fun & Creative Summer Activity Sheets & Writing Prompts for Kids

Summer vacation is almost here. That means it’s time to start planning which summer activity sheets and writing prompts you’ll be sending home with students!

Summer Activity Sheets & Writing Prompts

Ah, summer – a season of endless blue skies, warm breezes, and the promise of adventures waiting to be had.  For kids, it’s a time of boundless energy and imagination, just waiting to be unleashed.

As teachers, we encourage students to use this energy productively and still have meaningful learning experiences, even during the break from school.

That’s where summer activity sheets and writing prompts come into play—they’re not just tools to keep young minds engaged but also help with exploration, creativity, and fun-filled learning.

Why Summer Learning Matters

Summer is more than just a break from the routine; it’s an opportunity to keep young minds active and engaged. By providing stimulating activities and prompts, we can prevent the dreaded “summer slide” and ensure that students return to school ready to hit the ground running. 

The Power of Writing Prompts & Activity Sheets

Writing prompts and activity sheets are like fuel for the imagination. They help with creativity, encourage self-expression, and foster a love for storytelling. Through these prompts, kids can explore many topics – from beach adventures to camping trips – while improving their writing skills.

Summer Writing Prompts

As teachers, we are not looking to give students hours of work during the summer. We want them to enjoy the long days as much as we do. But that doesn’t mean we can’t send home some work to keep their young minds active and engaged, even during the break from school. That’s where summer writing prompts come in.

Summer Writing Prompts:

• Describe your perfect summer day.
• Imagine a summer picnic with your favorite foods.
• Imagine you’re on a summer expedition.
• How do you celebrate the longest day of the year? Describe your summer solstice traditions.
• Write down all the fun activities you want to do before summer ends!

Beach Writing Prompts:

• Write a story about a day at the beach.
• Imagine you’re at the beach. Describe what you see, hear, and feel.
• Create a list of all the things you would bring to the beach for a fun day.
• Write a letter to a friend inviting them to join you for a day at the beach.
• Draw a picture of your favorite beach memory and write a few sentences about it.

Camping Writing Prompts:

• Tell a tale of camping under the stars.
• Share a spooky or adventurous story told around a summer campfire.
• Tell a story about a camping trip with your family or friends.
• Describe your dream camping spot.
• Write a list of essentials for a camping trip.

Back To School Prompts:

• Share your hopes and dreams for the upcoming school year.
• Write about your feelings on the first day of a new school year.
• Imagine you are the teacher on the first day of school.
• Describe your favorite thing about starting a new school year.
• Create a list of goals you want to achieve during the upcoming school year.

To introduce these prompts, consider setting the scene with a short discussion or a fun activity related to each topic. Encourage students to use their own experiences and let their imaginations soar!

Fun Summer Writing & Activity Sheets

Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or homeschooler, keeping students engaged during the break is essential. Summer writing prompts and activity sheets make great summer review activities and are the perfect way to blend learning with enjoyment, all while capturing the season’s spirit. 

Writing Mats

These handy summer writing mats provide picture-word support and include a convention checklist to guide young writers in crafting their writing independently. Additionally, they come with a collection of vocabulary cards, ensuring that students have many words at their fingertips to boost their writing. Writing mats allow students to get creative while building essential writing skills, making them the perfect addition to any summer learning routine.

Story Idea Tear Strips

These special story idea strips are filled with different story prompts you can tear off and use to start writing your own stories. Each strip provides a new idea for a story so kids can let their imaginations run wild. These tear-off prompts help kids get creative and have fun with their writing. 

BINGO Boards with Writing Ideas

Writing BINGO boards are filled with exciting writing prompts that make the writing process enjoyable and engaging. Each square on the board contains a different prompt, from describing a favorite summer memory to creating a character for a story.

With Bingo Boards, students can have fun while practicing their writing skills, turning what might feel like work into a playful activity. Plus, with the element of competition, they can challenge each other to complete lines or even entire boards, adding an extra layer of motivation.

“Write About It” Picture Prompts

These visual prompts are designed to ignite imagination and inspire storytelling. Kids create a story to match the picture shown. Each picture prompt invites them to dive into a world of their creation, making writing a fun experience. Then, they can color! 

Summer Journal

Encourage a summer full of writing adventures with a Summer Journal! This journal is perfect for young writers looking to capture their summer memories and creative ideas. It can help inspire daily writing practice while inviting students to reflect on their summertime experiences. Grab a free summer journal h e re !

In addition, consider incorporating other activities, such as word searches, crossword puzzles, and more, to keep the learning experience varied and exciting.

How to Use Writing Prompts

To make the most of writing prompts, it is important to create a welcoming environment where kids feel comfortable expressing themselves. This means encouraging them to share their thoughts and ideas freely.

Once they’re ready to start writing, remind them to add many details to their stories. Encourage them to use descriptive words that paint a clear picture in the reader’s mind. Also, suggest that they draw pictures to accompany their writing. By doing these things, kids can bring their stories to life and have fun while they’re at it!

Ideas for Incorporating Summer Writing Activities

Incorporating summer writing activities into your summer school routine or practice at home offers many opportunities to engage writers and get them writing everyday .

Here are some ways to infuse creativity and excitement into summer writing sessions :

• Independent Writing Time : Dedicate a portion of each day to independent writing sessions where kids explore their interests and ideas. Provide a variety of writing prompts and materials to spark their imagination, allowing them the freedom to choose topics that resonate with them.
• Outdoor Writing Adventures: Take advantage of the summer weather by incorporating outdoor writing activities into your curriculum. Whether journaling in nature, conducting interviews with local wildlife, or writing poetry inspired by the sights and sounds of the outdoors, getting outside can inspire young writers.
• Themed Writing Days: Choose a different summer-related theme each week, such as “Beach Day,” “Outdoor Adventure Day,” “Ice Cream Day,” etc. On each themed day, provide writing prompts, activities, and materials related to the chosen theme. For example, on “Beach Day,” students can write about their favorite beach memories, create stories about imaginary beach adventures, or even write about why their favorite beach activity is the best.

Strategies to Help Young Writers

There are many ways of helping kid writers . Above all, celebrate efforts and achievements to create a love for writing. Provide constructive feedback and guidance and allow room for exploration and self-expression. You’re preparing kids for success in life and the next school year by instilling confidence and a passion for storytelling.

Incorporating these summer writing ideas into your summer activities can inspire creativity, promote literacy skills, and instill a lifelong love of writing in your students. Get creative, explore new ideas, and make the most of the summer season to cultivate a writing community in your classroom or at home.

Summer Writing Activity Resources

Free writing activities.

Try the writing mats in your classroom with this FREE Writing Activity Mats sample resource! Your students will be begging to take some home for summer break.

Click the image below to grab a copy.

Writing Activities That Are Perfect For Summer!

There are plenty of writing activities by Proud to Be Primary that are perfect for sending home with students during summer vacation or using in summer school!

• Summer Writing & Word Activities
• June Writing Mats
• June Writing Center
• Vocabulary Cards
• Writing Prompts
• Story Idea Tear Off Strips
• Writing Idea Spinners

More Summer Review Ideas

Summer Review Activities

Summer Reading Activities For Kids

End Of The Year Activities

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'A Gentleman in Moscow' Review — Ewan McGregor Effortlessly Charms From a Gilded Cage

• Ewan McGregor and Mary Elizabeth Winstead's chemistry shines in A Gentleman in Moscow as Alexander navigates relationships in his gilded cage.
• The storytelling cleverly deploys nonlinear narrative and amusing dialogue to engage the viewer.
• A slow start evolves into a compelling historical epic within the Metropol's walls.

Based on Amor Towles ’ critically acclaimed novel by the same name, A Gentleman in Moscow is Showtime’s next great historical drama. While the mention of “Moscow” in the title might make the mind’s eye wander down snowy streets in the shadow of Saint Basil's Cathedral, A Gentleman in Moscow is far removed from the sprawl of a struggling society and is instead a far more quaint tale , set within the confines of a grandiose hotel-turned-prison cell.

Like the gilt Fabergé egg that adorns the poster for the series, Count Alexander Rostov’s ( Ewan McGregor ) existence is a reminder of the opulence of bygone days—an ostentatious relic. He serves no real purpose in the grand scheme of things, except to be watched within his gilded cage, and kept account of by authorities, much like the dwindling few eggs that sit in collections around the world. And much like the Fabergé egg, Alexander’s life is inextricably linked to the tragic downfall of the Romanov family and the Bolshevik revolution of 1917 that followed.

The series starts swiftly, with the Bolshevik tribunal sentencing the Count to a lifetime of confinement within the walls of the Metropol Hotel. He is spared a far worse sentencing ( death ) due to the poem that he allegedly penned, which critiqued the upper class and questioned the purpose of the royal family. These are, of course, ideals that the Bolsheviks agree with, even if they are being echoed by a Count who benefited from the institutions he criticized. As with Towles’ novel, much of the Count’s life before the revolution is shown through fragmented flashbacks dotted throughout the series, as well as through illuminating conversations with his compatriots — or, rather, comrades, Mishka ( Fehinti Balogun ) and Prince Nikolai Petrov ( Paul Ready ).

A Gentleman in Moscow

A Russian aristocrat is spared from death and placed on house arrest while the Bolshevik Revolution plays out before him.

Release Date March 29, 2024

Cast Leah Harvey, Anastasia Hille, Beau Gadsdon, Bjrn Hlynur Haraldsson, Paul Ready, Johnny Harris, Ewan McGregor, Mary Elizabeth Winstead

Main Genre Drama

Genres Drama

‘A Gentleman in Moscow’ Breathes New Life Into Its Characters

With Ben Vanstone as the guiding hand for the series, A Gentleman in Moscow was smartly adapted from page to screen. Rather than embracing the novel's insular storytelling, with the Count as the sole protagonist, Vanstone has widened the narrative to bring more life to the surrounding characters — particularly the women who come in and out of his life, and the gilded doors of the Metropol. It would have been very easy to frame Anna Urbanova ( Mary Elizabeth Winstead ) as little more than the Count’s on-again-off-again girlfriend. Her life outside of Alexander doesn’t matter on the page; she only exists when she is with him or on his mind. Perhaps with a different creative team, that would have been exactly how she was portrayed, but Vanstone veered far away from playing straight into that trope. Instead, Anna’s life outside of Alexander is given depth . Her career as an actress is a vital subplot that weaves through each episode, headed towards a larger plot point. While she and the Count do fall into bed on numerous occasions, it’s always handled tastefully and shown as a relationship that she holds the reins to. Courting a criminal comes at great personal risk to her budding career, which makes the shifted narrative all the more vital.

A Gentleman in Moscow marks the third time that McGregor and Winstead have shared the screen following their performances in Fargo and Birds of Prey , and their real-life chemistry beautifully carries through into the relationship between Alexander and Anna. They play off each other naturally, and their performances are just as electric, regardless of whether Anna is keeping his delusions of grandeur in check or he’s sprawled out naked on the ground with nothing more than a towel to hide the… Fabergé eggs. McGregor and Winstead's dynamic is half the fun of A Gentleman in Moscow . It’s refreshing to have even more historical romances to talk about around the watercooler — and audiences will be raving about this series given its weekly release schedule.

While Alexander’s relationship with Anna is at the heart of A Gentleman in Moscow , the soul of the series is his unlikely friendships with two little girls who call the Metropol home during different periods of his imprisonment. First is Nina Kulikova ( Alexa Goodall ), a curly-haired spitfire who has everyone in the hotel wrapped around her finger. It’s through Nina that Alexander starts to make genuine connections with the host of characters around him, which changes him for the better. Years after Nina has been set free from Alexander’s gilded cage, a second young girl comes into Alexander’s life: Sofia ( Billie Gadsdon ). Through both girls, Alexander gets to experience what fatherhood might have looked like for him had he not been ensnared by the Bolsheviks.

Another notable and equally unlikely friendship that Alexander makes at the Metropol is the one that he forges with Osip Glebnikov ( Johnny Harris ), the man tasked with ensuring he never leaves the hotel. Glebnikov enlists Alexander in training him to be more of a gentleman. Given his upbringing, he was never afforded the same access to scholarly works or classic literature as Alexander, and this academic pursuit becomes their evening conversations over supper.

One such conversation centers on Victor Hugo ’s seminal work, Les Misérables , which is a cause of confusion for Glebnikov, who withers at the notion of Javert (spoilers for a 162-year-old book) committing suicide. While the conversation about Les Misérables may be brief, the comparison between the two works is undeniable. Alexander, much like Jean Valjean, is a prisoner of circumstances, though on wildly different sides of the scale. While Valjean escapes from his jailor, Javert, for large swaths of time, Alexander is always right where Glebnikov left him within the halls of the Metropol. The true comparison, however, arises when Alexander is tasked with the care of young Sofia by her mother, much in the same way Fantine entrusts Cosette’s future with Valjean. Further comparisons could be made with the setting of both tales, as they are both set against uprisings, revolutions, class disparity, and the sort of socialist discourse that would make Karl Marx sit up in his grave. And, much like the stage musical, A Gentleman in Moscow is all about the turning of the years.

‘A Gentleman in Moscow’ Starts Slow, But Builds to a Pulse-Pounding Conclusion

Spread out across eight episodes, A Gentleman in Moscow spans approximately forty years of Alexander’s life in captivity. With each new episode, a running total of how many days he has spent in his lavish prison is tallied up. Occasionally, the episodes will work backward from each shocking total, which cleverly hooks the audience right from the onset of the episode. Except for his visible aging and waning agility, the Count remains largely stagnant as the world changes around him. He has very little control over his circumstances, which means a lot happens to him, not with him. People come and go around him, relationships are formed, babies are born, those babies grow up and go to war, people die, and Russia evolves—for better and for worse.

The first handful of episodes start slowly, particularly where Alexander’s passivity is concerned, but as he begins to come to terms with his situation and connect with the vibrant world around him, however small it may be, the pace finally picks up. Without revealing too many details about the final episodes of the series, one might be able to imagine what sort of turmoil might visit his gilded cage once Stalin’s regime falls and America starts poking around the ruins of the government. The passage of time is cleverly shown through more than just a running total and graying hair. While Alexander’s wardrobe rarely receives an upgrade, the people around him represent the ever-evolving world beyond the Metropol. Anna is the best bellwether for societal changes as her appearance transforms from a picture-perfect blonde bombshell with rising hemlines to her natural brunette curls and sophisticated elegance. As time continues to pass, she even dons cozy sweaters that mirror Alexander’s own comfortable existence.

While it is unlikely that A Gentleman in Moscow intended for Ewan McGregor to look like a dark academia fever dream, every bit of the Count’s character design screams the aesthetic. From the unkempt coif of permed curls to his longjohns-clad calisthenics in a dusty attic, Alexander looks more like an eccentric history professor than a count whose wings have been clipped. McGregor brings a charming congenitally to the role that makes the Count ever so beguiling , particularly when he gets to act opposite the younger members of the cast. When he’s not going toe-to-toe with Winstead, he’s at his best keeping up with the spry wit of Goodall and Gadsdon's characters.

A Gentleman in Moscow lives up to the expectations set by Towles’ novel and delivers a sprawling historical epic contained within the walls of a single location. The Count’s world might be as small as the Metropol, but he lives vicariously through the relationships he makes — and, by extension, so do we. With mystery, danger, and intrigue threaded throughout, A Gentleman in Moscow has the potential to dominate cultural conversation in the same way that Shōgun and The Gilded Age have nourished audiences who are starved for well-told, compelling tales.

A Gentleman in Moscow lives up to the original novel it adapts, delivering a sprawling historical epic confined to a single location.

• Ewan McGregor and Mary Elizabeth Winstead electrify the screen with their chemistry and natural ease together.
• The writing is clever, both with its amusing dialogue and the way it deploys nonlinear storytelling to keep audiences engaged.
• The set and costume design are sumptuous and visually appealing.
• The first handful of episodes are quite slow, but the series does eventually pick up as the story unfolds.

A Gentleman in Moscow premieres March 29 on streaming and on-demand on Paramount+ with Showtime before its on-air debut on March 31.

Watch on Paramount+

521 S. Main, Moscow,  Idaho 83843 | (208) 882-2669 | [email protected] | 10am - 6pm Mon-Sat, 10am - 4pm Sun

Gratitude Journal: Prompts to Inspire, Communicate, and Apply Gratitude to Every Day (Creative Keepsakes) (Paperback)

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Karlovy Vary Film Festival Lineup Includes 15 Directorial Debuts, Plus Films by Established Filmmakers

By Leo Barraclough

Leo Barraclough

International Features Editor

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The 32-strong official selection of the 58th edition of Karlovy Vary Film Festival , Central and Eastern Europe’s leading cinema fete, will feature 15 directorial debuts as well as the latest works of established filmmakers such as Mark Cousins , Oleh Sentsov , Noaz Deshe, Antonin Peretjatko, Beata Parkanova and Burak Cevik.

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The films in the Proxima Competition will be judged by filmmaker Mohamed Kordofani, producer Bianca Balbuena, Daniela Michel, the founding director of the Morelia Film Festival, Wouter Jansen, the founder of the sales company Square Eyes, and Adéla Komrzý, a filmmaker.

(Film descriptions, below, supplied by the festival.)

“Banzo” Director: Margarida Cardoso Portugal, France, Netherlands, international premiere In 1907, Alonso arrives on Prince’s Island, where he has been tasked with treating a group of workers plagued by a mysterious affliction called banzo, also known as slave nostalgia. Those affected feel an intense homesickness, fall into apathy, lose the strength to live, and eventually die. Alonso slowly discovers that it is not enough to treat the physical symptoms; he must understand the soul of those who have been uprooted. The oppressive atmosphere of the isolated tropical island forms the backdrop for a story from the dark colonial past in which humanity is put to the ultimate test. “Banzo” is also a reminder that there is more than one way to interpret the past, and that behind every story is a person telling the story.

“Cì xīn qiè gŭ” (Pierce) Director: Nelicia Low Singapore, Taiwan, Poland, world premiere After Han is released from juvenile prison, where he served seven years for killing an opponent in a fencing match, he meets his younger brother and insists on his innocence. Jie believes him, and the torn brotherly bond begins to heal. Behind their mother’s back, Han helps Jie perfect his fencing skills so that he can qualify for the national championships. But the initially energetic clinking of sabres is slowly drowned out by silent doubts: Is Han really innocent? Low’s gripping atmospheric thriller offers a nerve-wracking duel between the ideals of brotherly love and the illusions that we project onto those close to us.

“Drie dagen vis” (Three Days of Fish) Director: Peter Hoogendoorn Netherlands, Belgium, world premiere Just as he does every year, dad flies from sunny Portugal for a three-day visit to the Netherlands, the drab country of his birth. He has his usual errands to run, and he visits his doctor for his annual check-up, accompanied by his eccentric grown-up son… This intimate film offers a glimpse into the relationship between two men who have grown apart yet, as they engage in seemingly mundane activities, little by little they try to find their way back to one another. “Three Days of Fish,” the second outing by Dutch filmmaker Hoogendoorn, is a gentle drama, interlaced with the dry humor typical for the region. The director’s feature debut “Between 10 and 12” premiered at Venice.

“Ema a smrtihlav” (The Hungarian Dressmaker) Director: Iveta Grófová Slovak Republic, Czech Republic, world premiere It’s the 1940s. The Slovak state witnesses the rise of nationalism and it’s not an auspicious time for minorities. The turbulent social mood also impacts the widow Marika, who loses her job in an Aryanised dressmaker’s shop. Given the increasing anti-Hungarian sentiment she shuts herself away, particularly since she is harboring a little Jewish boy. Despite this she still finds herself singled out by two men: a German Nazi officer and a captain of Slovakia’s Hlinka Guard. This drama by Slovak director Grófová is an adaptation of the novella of the same name by Peter Krištúfek, which conjures up the dramatic atmosphere of wartime Slovakia. The story of a fragmented era, which forces the protagonists to confront complex dilemmas, is told not only through words, but also by way of a powerful visual language.

“Mord” (Our Lovely Pig Slaughter) Director: Adam Martinec Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, world premiere The pig-killing fest on an old farm is a tradition Karel looks forward to every year. It’s the only chance for the whole family to get together, have a good time, engage in a squabble or two, and enjoy some great food. But this time things are different. The butcher hides the fact his cartridges are damp, grandpa can’t bring himself to tell Karel, recently widowed, that this slaughter will be their last, daughter Lucie is depressed after her marital breakup, and grandson Dušík runs away while his parents argue over whether he’s old enough to watch the kill. As for Karel, the pig’s blood spilling everywhere is the last straw… Martinec’s feature debut is a remarkably incisive study of the Czech temperament which, through its visceral character portrayal and searing humor, evokes the masterworks of the Czechoslovak New Wave.

“Panoptikoni” (Panopticon) Director: George Sikharulidze Georgia, France, Italy, Romania, world premiere When Sandro’s father decides to devote his life to God and leaves for a monastery, the teenage introvert finds himself deprived of the fundamental certainties of life. Abandoned by his father and his mother, who is working abroad, the young man embarks on a journey of self-discovery, opening up both to a new friendship with the radical Lasha, who has ties with an ultra-right organization, and also to the chance to explore his own sexuality. Sikharulidze’s perceptive feature debut considers how fine the line is between the observer and the observed, and asks where contemporary post-Soviet Georgian society is heading as it hovers on the border between religious conservatism and nationalisation on the one hand, and the desire for independence and modernization on the other.

“A Sudden Glimpse to Deeper Things” Director: Mark Cousins U.K. world premiere One of the most important women in British modern art, the painter Wilhelmina Barns-Graham was a highly inspirational figure, whose work was deeply impacted by a pivotal event in her life. In May 1949, this leading representative of the modernist St. Ives group of artists climbed to the top of the Grindelwald glacier in Switzerland, an experience which was to transform the way she saw the world. She spent the rest of her life capturing its shapes and colors, indeed its very essence. In his essayistic portrait Cousins delves into complex themes of gender, climate change and creativity, while laying bare the artist’s character and vast imagination so pervasively that he creates the impression we are seeing the world through her eyes.

“Světýlka” (Tiny Lights) Director: Beata Parkanová Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, world premiere Amálka is six years old. She loves her cat, her parents, and her gran and grandpa. It’s summertime and all the little girl could wish for is for the day to turn out just as it should. Except that things are different. Her parents have shut themselves in a room and she can hear raised voices through the door, which isn’t normal. Something’s going on and Amálka has no idea what it is. In a superbly creative direction from Parkanová, “Tiny Lights” follows a family break-up as perceived by a child: Through the keyhole, ear pressed to the door, everything seen at adult waist height. Each day has to end, and this one has brought Amálka to the point of no return. She feels the hurt as she drifts off to sleep, but she has also grown up a little.

“Xoftex” Director: Noaz Deshe Germany, France, world premiere Xoftex is a Greek refugee camp, where Syrian and Palestinian asylum seekers anxiously wait for news of their refugee status. To pass the time between interviews with the immigration office, Nasser and his friends film satirical sketches and make preparations for a zombie horror flick. Except that the reality of the camp could be taken for a horror scenario itself. The tension between its inhabitants gains momentum and every conflict removes one more brick from the wall which divides reality from dream – or, indeed, nightmare. Fragments of real life, humor, and the unimaginable suffering of people risking their lives to escape their own country, merge into an explosive, at times, surreal spectacle which invites the viewers to immerse themselves in the story and the lives of immigrants in a way they will never have experienced before.

“Cabo Negro” Director: Abdellah Taïa France, Morocco, world premiere Two young people, Soundouss and Jaâfar, arrive at a luxury villa in the resort of Cabo Negro rented by Jaâfar’s lover, who is supposed to join them later. But something is wrong – he still hasn’t turned up, and they can’t reach him on his phone. Left on their own, they decide, despite their uncertain financial and personal situation, to enjoy their holiday as much as their minds and bodies will allow. On vacation, with time seemingly non-existent, they take the opportunity to reflect on their relationships back home – and on the future, which feels so distant here on the sun-drenched beach. Taïa presents a queer ode to the seemingly carefree time of youth.

“Clorofilla” (Chlorophyll) Director: Ivana Gloria Italy, international premiere Green-haired Maia is tired of city life and, driven by a desire to be among nature, she decides to spend the summer picking oranges. In the orchards she is greeted by the gardener, an eccentric loner called Teo, who notices that Maia isn’t like everyone else. In the same way he tends his plants, he devotes his time and energy to her, too, and the young woman starts to blossom. Their burgeoning friendship, however, is unsettled by the arrival of Teo’s father and older brother Arturo, who are planning a celebration in a neighboring village… In her richly colored story, which shows it’s sometimes difficult to find someone who could help us to discover our true selves, Gloria awakens within us senses that we didn’t even know we had.

“Fără suflet” (The Alienated) Director: Anja Kreis Germany, Moldova, France, world premiere Varvara, a professor of philosophy, is discussing the concept of God’s death with her students. She is visited by her sister Angelina, an eminent gynaecologist who has been recalled from Moscow and sent to another city, where she is to reduce the number of abortions. Not long afterwards a girl comes to see her at the hospital, asking her to perform an abortion, claiming that she is carrying the Antichrist in her womb. After a heated dispute with a student, Varvara ponders the presence of evil in human nature, while Angelina carries out an illegal abortion on the girl and takes the embryo home with her… This mystical film is beguiling for its ominous atmosphere and raises uncomfortable questions about human conscience, morality and faith, although it declines to provide definitive answers.

“Ju wai ren” (Stranger) Director: Zhengfan Yang U.S., China, Netherlands, Norway, France, world premiere The hotel room as a place where everybody is a stranger. A place that is yours for just a moment. A temporarily intimate space entered by a maid in order to clean it while, if possible, not leaving a single trace of her visit. Each part of the episodic “Stranger” is set in just such a place. One episode equals one shot. One shot equals one story. What they have in common is China, the home country of both guests and staff, although each of their lives differs from the others. The film’s absurd, darkly humorous, poignant and mysterious stories are set in a seemingly confined space that nevertheless opens up new and surprising dimensions with each episode.

“Lapilli” Director: Paula Ďurinová Slovak Republic, Germany, world premiere In her feature debut, Ďurinová sets out to wander among varied rock formations in order to try and come to terms with the loss of her grandparents. Different stages of grief unfold among the sea currents, the dark caves and the volcanic wasteland, while the strings of an autoharp resonate in the ravines. Lapilli finds a balance between the personal and the environmental in a modernistic requiem full of perceptive observations on natural phenomena and on man himself. This is a work that excels in its inner strength and rare film language, where sea waves reflect shifting thoughts, and where the erosion of arid soil is reminiscent of a broken heart filled with memories of people who are lost to us forever.

“Od marca do mája” (March to May) Director: Martin Pavol Repka Czech Republic, world premiere A family of five lives together in an old village house. While the parents are slowly aging, the children are growing up, and it is clear that they will soon go their own way. This unchanging rhythm of everyday life is disrupted by the unexpected news of the mother’s pregnancy, and the idea of a new sibling gradually affects all members of the household. “March to May” is an understated, intimate portrait of family togetherness, which is often expressed in the smallest of ways. An unassuming yet highly original story, filmed with the same tenderness and patience with which nature awakens every spring.

“Trans Memoria” Director: Victoria Verseau Sweden, France, world premiere “I collect. I document. I write down my memories. I’m afraid they’ll disappear.” This is how Verseau introduces her intimate documentary diary, in which she returns to Thailand and to the year 2012, when she underwent her transition. She had long awaited this moment, but then came feelings of uncertainty, amplified by the death of a close friend. The conceptual artist adopts an almost archaeological approach to the past and lays bare the process of writing a personal story that is intrinsically linked to the creation of her own identity. In this deeply felt debut she reveals the joyful aspects and also the dark recesses of transition and, bringing other testimonies into play as well, she critically examines what defines women as women.

“Tropicana” Director: Omer Tobi Israel, Canada, world premiere A lonely middle-aged woman lives her monotonous life. Every morning, she goes to her job as a supermarket cashier, and every day after work she goes straight home to look after her ailing mother and the rest of the family. Nobody, however, seems to care. Then, the mysterious murder of her boss sets off a chain of events at the end of which she can be free and find her own worth. How to describe her journey? Perhaps best as a sexual odyssey, an exploratory expedition to places where an important role is played by carnality, desire, and its gratification. “Tropicana” is a subtly enigmatic reflection on conservatism, prudery, and the false ideal of physical beauty.

“Vino la noche” (Night Has Come) Director: Paolo Tizón Peru, Spain, Mexico, world premiere A group of young adventurers sign up for one of the most challenging military training courses in Latin America, which will turn them into fearsome warriors entrusted with overseeing the dangerous VRAEM region, an area filled with coca plants, terrorists and smugglers. In his absorbing look at the hermetically sealed world of the army, debut director Tizon paints a portrait of one institution while depicting individual human stories and reflecting on male identity, the potential for self-determination, and a fragile masculinity that stands in striking contrast to the brutal training. Sensitivity alongside violence, beauty alongside vulnerability.

“In the Land of Brothers” Director: Alireza Ghasemi, Raha Amirfazli Iran, France, Netherlands, European premiere The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan led to a massive flight of Afghans to neighboring Iran, which – since they hoped to find a new home there – they called the “Land of Brothers.” But the dream of fraternal coexistence soon faded, Iranian law never accepted them as equal citizens, and so even the descendants of the first refugees still carry the burden of otherness. Ghasemi and Amirfazli’s wistful, beautifully shot feature debut about a family who will never feel at home in the country where they live won over audiences immediately on its premiere at Sundance.

“Ještě nejsem, kým chci být” (I’m Not Everything I Want to Be) Director: Klára Tasovská Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Austria This year’s notional award for excellence on the domestic film front should go to this documentary on the internationally renowned photographer Libuše Jarcovjáková, a work which enchanted many at the Berlinale. This project looks back over the past 50 years at the life of a true icon, known as the Czech Nan Goldin, and this via a montage of several thousand of her photographs and her diary entries, which she reads out herself. Portraits, self-portraits, immortalized moments, the quest for truth lying deep within nameless fellow opponents of grim Normalisation, reflections of the transformation of body and soul, black-and-white images, emotion and life in flashes of brilliant light.

“Das Lied der Anderen – Eine Suche nach Europa” (The Song of Others – A Search for Europe) Director: Vadim Jendreyko Switzerland, international premiere What is Europe? In his topical personal essay, Jendreyko travels across the old continent to discover its essence in places that might be called acupuncture points of European identity. His various stops include the bottom of the Rhine, Greek docks, the European Parliament, a primeval forest in Poland, and a Sarajevo library. All of these places invite ambivalent reflections: on the one hand, they celebrate Europe’s diversity and the breadth of its cultural heritage; on the other hand, they are symbols of turbulence, conflict and bloody history. Is Europe condemned to be stuck in a vicious circle of violence, or is there hope in those who try to sing the songs of others?

“Ta druhá” (The Other One) Director: Marie-Magdalena Kochová Czech Republic, world premiere In her feature-length debut, Kochová uses the character of 18-year-old Johanna to explore the phenomenon of “glass children” – children who, because they have a special-needs sibling, are neglected by their family, however unintentionally. They often feel invisible, their problems are always considered less important, and they are often expected to help take care of their disabled brother or sister. Johana is about to graduate from high school, and so she must decide whether to leave home to study, or stay and help her parents. An immensely sensitive account of the nature of sibling love which, for once, puts “the other one” first.

“Tatabojs.doc” Director: Marek Najbrt Czech Republic, world premiere “Foot Soldiers,” “Attention aux hommes,” “Dancer,” “Repetition”… These are just some of the string of hits by Prague band Tata Bojs. Always energetic, capable of myriad transformations, precise in their conceptual approach to the visual and musical interpretation of individual albums and concerts. It’s no surprise that Najbrt decided not to go for the conventional documentary. He tells the band’s story as a playful collage, pieced together from a wealth of archive material and recordings of concerts and futuristic stage performances with the Vosto5 theater company. Thus, unfolding before our very eyes is a portrait of a highly original band which, despite the alternative nature of its output, has earned its rightful place among the country’s top players.

“Vlny” (Waves) Director: Jiří Mádl Czech Republic, world premiere One might think that Czech and Slovak filmmakers have already said all there is to say about the period around 1968 in Czechoslovak history. As Mádl’s latest outing shows, however, this crucial era in our modern history still has forgotten stories to offer that are worthy of our attention. The film revolves around the international news office at Czechoslovak Radio, a place full of talented individuals possessing broad insight, linguistic skills, and above all a commitment to honest journalistic work with a focus on the truth. An epic, dynamically shot, rewarding film, which embraces uncommon heroism in the face of an oppressive regime, the strength of fraternal ties, and the eternal themes of love, betrayal, morality, and hope.

“Zahradníkův rok” (The Gardener’s Year) Director: Jiří Havelka Czech Republic, world premiere A true story of injustice perpetrated on a peaceful gardener by a wealthy neighbor meets Karel Čapek’s eponymous literary work about a gardener’s hardships and successes over the course of a year. Havelka, one of the most complex artistic personalities of our time, has long proved that “alternative” and “audience-friendly” need not be mutually exclusive. His quietly moving tragicomic story about a remarkably stubborn struggle for the right to a dignified life is built on two great performances by the always outstanding Oldřich Kaiser and Dáša Vokata.

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