1. Is there something you’re angry about, either with someone else or yourself? Who can you forgive? 

Anger and resentment can be powerful emotions that can weigh heavily on our minds and hearts. Reflect on whether there’s something or someone that you’re angry with, and consider whether forgiveness is possible or appropriate. This can help you to let go of anger, move on from past hurts, and experience greater inner peace.

2. What are 3 things that hurt you emotionally or spiritually?

Emotional and spiritual pain can be difficult to face, but reflecting on the things that hurt you can help you process your emotions and begin to heal. Consider seeking support from a trusted friend, family member, or therapist to help you work through these difficult feelings.

3. Why do you live in the city you live in? Would you move anywhere else?

Do you feel fulfilled and happy in your current environment, or do you long for a change? Consider the pros and cons of staying put versus moving, and reflect on what you want your life to look like in the future.

4. What is the best trip you’ve taken, and why?

Travel can be a transformative experience that broadens our horizons and expands our perspectives. Reflect on the best travel experience, and consider why it was so memorable. Did you learn something new, meet interesting people, or simply have an amazing time? Use this reflection to plan future travel experiences and explore new destinations.

5. What’s on your bucket list? What do you want to add? 

What are the things you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t had the chance to do? Make a list of your top bucket list items and consider how you can work towards achieving them.

6. What is the one thing you want the most right now? How can you get it?

Reflect on the one thing you want the most right now, whether it’s a material possession, a personal goal, or a relationship. Consider what steps you can take to achieve your desire, and if any obstacles are holding you back.

7. Do you have any regrets in your life? What are they?

Regrets can be a powerful emotion that can hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. Use this prompt to forgive yourself for past mistakes and move forward with greater clarity and purpose.

8. How do you practice self-care?

Self-care is an essential part of maintaining good mental health and overall well-being. Think about your current practices, and consider whether there are any additional self-care practices you can incorporate into your daily routine.

9. What was the best and worst part of your week? Why are they the best and worst?

Reflecting on the highs and lows of your week can help you identify patterns and gain perspective on what’s important to you. Consider what made the best part of your week enjoyable, and how you can incorporate more of that into your life. On the other hand, also think about what made the worst part of your week difficult, and brainstorm ways to cope with similar challenges in the future.

10. What is the hardest thing you’ve gone through? How did you get through it? How can this experience help you in the future?

Reflecting on difficult experiences is a powerful way to learn from past mistakes and grow as a person. Think about a difficult time in your life, and reflect on how you got through it. 

11. What was your childhood like? How has it affected you as an adult?

Understanding your childhood can help you understand the origins of your personality traits, habits, and beliefs. Consider your earliest memories, your family dynamics, and any significant events or experiences from your childhood. 

12. What fears  did you have when you were younger? How did you cope with them? Are you still fearful of them? Are the coping mechanisms still beneficial to your wellbeing?

Everyone experiences fear, especially during childhood, and understanding your past fears can help you understand how you cope with anxiety and stress today. 

13. What do you do regularly that brings you joy? 

Consider the activities, hobbies, or people that bring you the most happiness. How can you make more time for those things in your life? What new activities or experiences can you try to increase your overall sense of joy and fulfillment?

14. What is one habit you’d like to break, and why? What is one habit you’d like to form, and why?

Contemplating your habits can help you identify patterns that may be holding you back from reaching your goals. Think about habits you want to change and ones you want to add to your life. 

15. What do you see when you picture your future? 

Knowing your goals and aspirations can help you clarify your values and purpose. Think about what your ideal future looks like and the steps you can take to move closer to that vision.

Taking time to reflect on our thoughts and experiences can be a powerful tool for personal growth, self-reflection, and mindfulness. Whether you choose to use one or all of the reflective journal prompts outlined in this article, the key is to be honest and open with yourself as you write. With the 15 journal prompts, you can dive deeper into your thoughts and emotions, and work towards becoming the best version of yourself. If you need more help getting started, you can check out the Brave Journal for daily journal prompts. Happy journaling!