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Life Changing Journal Prompts

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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Oswego chapter.

For those who love to journal, this one’s for you.

Ever since I sat down to write my first entry three years ago, my life has never been the same. Sure, that might sound a bit dramatic, but journaling has changed my life for the better. Not only is it a way for me to document the beautiful, simple moments in my life, but I also use it as an outlet to sort through my thoughts and reflect on what goes on around me. 

Part of why I love doing this is because there are no limits as to what I can do. Most of the time, I’m inspired by something that happens during my day, so I sit down and document it. However, I do appreciate an insightful prompt every now and then. Below, I have compiled a short list of journal prompts I know will inspire you. 

Write a letter to your future self 

Whether it be one month from now, a year, or even 10 years, write a letter to your future self. You can choose to write a note of thanks or gratitude, establish any goals or dreams you might have, or simply let them know how proud you are of them. 

Make sure to date the entry, and set a reminder to come back to it at the date you chose. 

Write a letter to someone who wronged you 

Moving on can be hard. I get it. Use this prompt to make amends with the past. This will only help you move forward with more clarity, and, ultimately, a better conscience. 

Why are you worth knowing? 

You are unique. You are amazing. You are worth knowing. 

Your friends and family all love who you are, but why do you think you are special? It could be the way your eyes shine when you see a loved one, or the way you get excited when you see the stars at night. Whatever it is, this prompt will encourage you to view yourself in a whole new light.

What is Heaven for you? What does it feel/taste/smell/ sound like?

Everyone’s version of “Heaven” is different. But what does it look like to you? Is it a special place you’ve visited? Does it smell like your favorite scented candle? What does it feel like to you? 

Your “Heaven” is your ultimate happy place. 

What is your dream partner like? 

Whether we know it or not, we look for certain qualities and personality characteristics when seeking a partner. This is the person you are going to spend the rest of your life with, you should have standards! While some may have a vivid description of what this person looks and smells like, others may simply have an idea of the basic qualities they are looking for in a partner. Everyone is different. Set your standards and do not lower them for anyone. 

What is a dream you let go of? 

As a kid, did you wish to become a singer or an actor one day? As a teenager, did you dream of traveling the world and settling down on some remote island where no one can find you? 

We have all had dreams we have either forgotten or let go of. But sometimes, reconnecting with past desires can spur new goals and aspirations that you will one day achieve. 

Write a letter to your younger self 

Life goes by fast. One day you were five years old, running around outside without a care in the world. The next day, you were crying to your mom because life all of a sudden got too hard and scary. 

You can choose to write them a love note, or even just let them know they are on your mind. We all grow up too fast. Use this as an opportunity to reconnect with your younger self, and maybe let your inner child out to play a little bit, too.

Quinn Pens

Oswego '25

Hello, I'm Quinn! I am a Senior at SUNY Oswego, studying Communications and Creative Writing. I love reading, Disney, traveling, baking and being happy :).