January Is For Journaling

Journaling is one of the most beneficial tools in my own personal life. I started journaling in 2020 when I was first in treatment and it has been a habit I have stuck with to this day. Journaling helps you clear your mind and really reflect on everything that is going on in your life. The feeling of filling up every single page in a journal is one of my favorite feelings in the world. It is also fun to read your journal entries years later and look at what your life was like and what was going on at that point in time. I find that my day-to-day life goes more smoothly when I journal before going to bed every night and reflect on what went well that day, what I could improve on, and what my plans are for the following day.

It is now the winter season and the New Year. Let’s start this year off right and learn more about ourselves and take time to center our minds by journaling this month of January. Sometimes it can be difficult to just start writing and let the words flow, and that’s where journaling prompts come in handy! Below is a list of journaling prompt ideas for self-care and growth to get you started on your journaling journey. There are twenty-four days left this month so here are twenty-four prompts for each day! Let’s get writing!

Write down five things you’re grateful for today.
Create a list of things that instantly comfort you. This could be a song, a scent, or a memory. Describe why each item holds significance.
Spend a few minutes focusing on your breathing. Write down how it feels.
Describe your ideal day if technology didn’t exist.
Check in on your self-care. How have you taken care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally today?
Reflect on a moment in nature that made you feel peaceful or inspired.
Write down three positive affirmations you can repeat to yourself daily.
What is one thing you want to release or let go of today?
List three things your body allows you to do that you’re thankful for.
Add one new thing you want to experience to your bucket list.
Describe your current emotions as if they were weather patterns.
Focus on one sense (sight, smell, touch, taste, sound) and describe something that brings you joy related to it.
Reflect on your energy levels throughout the day. When did you feel most energized? When did you feel drained? What contributed to these feelings?
List three healthy boundaries you want to set or reinforce.
Draw, doodle, or scribble without any judgment or specific goal in mind.
Reflect on a recent failure or mistake. What did it teach you?
List three activities or rituals that energize and rejuvenate you.
Describe one mindful activity you engaged in today (Mindful eating, walking, etc.).
Is there someone you need to forgive, including yourself? Write about it.
Create a playlist of songs that make you feel happy, relaxed, or empowered.
What’s one thing you wish to do for yourself in the upcoming week?
Describe your ideal way to recharge when feeling drained.
Write about an act of kindness you witnessed or practiced recently.
Embrace a flaw or imperfection about yourself. How does it make you unique?