In this BIT: Journal prompts and journaling ideas for self reflection. See all our favorite journal ideas below!
In an interview with psychologist and professor, Ethan Kross, he shared that journaling is one of the most effective ways to regulate our emotions. Yet, it is also one of the least utilized. Why? Well, for starters, journaling takes time and effort. We need to sit down, deeply consider what we’re feeling and why, and somehow verbalize these experiences onto the page. However, if we can only push through the initial avoidance that we face in doing difficult tasks, and understand the importance and value of journaling on our happiness and resilience, we can build it into a positive happiness habit that we regularly practice. Whether you’re just getting started in your journaling journey, or if you’re already an established journal writer, below are some of our favorite journal prompts!
Which emotions do I find the most challenging to sit with and accept?
When they do arise, how do I handle these emotions?
What do I fear most? How does this fear control or impact my life? What am I grieving that I haven’t fully acknowledged?
What do I need right now, and how can I give that to myself?
Who do I trust most and why?
Are there any friendships I’m outgrowing? How do I feel about that?
What do I want my children/future children to learn from me?
What patterns do I notice in my past relationships?
What tiny things bring me joy that I usually overlook?
What’s something I could do today that my 8-year-old self would love?
Is my happiness tied to doing, or can I find it in simply being?
What’s one happy memory from childhood that makes me feel warm inside?
Where do I see myself 10 years from now? Ideally vs realistically…
Am I overwhelmed or drained by my work? If so, why?
What do I feel pressured to achieve, and where is that pressure coming from?
What would I do differently if I believed rest was productive, too?
We hope that through these journal prompts, you practice self reflection on your life and process some large emotions, feeling a small bit of happiness.
For more happiness check out our Mood Boost page.
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