March 20, 2025 • 17 mins
50 Social Skills Journal Prompts
Unlock the secrets of your creativity and personal growth with our latest episode, where the power of journaling takes center stage. Ever wondered what the world would be like if everyone could read minds? We explore this thought-provoking scenario, sparking conversations about communication and the nature of conflict. Join us as we delve into the art of self-discovery through childhood memories and envisioning your ideal day, providing a roadmap to uncover personal values and aspirations. We’ll guide you through imaginative exercises that transform everyday journaling into a journey of introspection and growth.
We'll also tackle the fear factor by naming what holds us back and making strides to conquer our insecurities. Reflect on past leaps of faith to celebrate your resilience and embrace gratitude's healing touch in challenging times. We'll show you how to turn wishful thinking into actionable plans, making your dreams accessible and tangible. By focusing on gratitude, we emphasize the importance of recognizing the significance of the people and experiences that enrich our lives. Tune in to discover how journaling can be a powerful tool for unlocking creativity, fostering self-reflection, and cultivating a mindful appreciation of your journey.
LeStallion offers premium PU leather journal notebooks for writing, dedicated to all those who are pursuing their dreams and goals, or nurturing their personal development and mental health.
For More Info on LeStallion, check out:
https://lestallion.com/
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Welcome back everyone to the Deep Dive.
Today we're taking a deep diveinto something that can help
unlock your inner storyteller,help you learn a little bit more
about yourself, maybe evenboost your creativity.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
Ooh, that sounds exciting.
Speaker 1 (00:12):
It is.
We're talking about journaling.
Speaker 2 (00:14):
OK.
Speaker 1 (00:14):
But not just any kind of journaling.
We're going to be looking at 50prompts for journal writing
from the Lestallion blog.
I love that.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Yeah, from the Lestallion blog.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
I love that.
Yeah, these prompts aredesigned to make you think a
little bit differently than justlike dear diary.
This is what I had for lunchtoday.
Speaker 2 (00:29):
Yeah, it's not just what you did that day, but
actually digging a little deeper.
Speaker 1 (00:33):
Exactly, there are five categories of prompts.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
Wow Okay.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
Self-discovery, creativity, boost, emotional
reflection, exploring dreams,and gratitude and mindfulness.
So let's start withself-discovery.
Okay, there's one prompt inhere that really stood out to me
.
Okay, reflect on a significantmemory from your childhood.
Speaker 2 (00:54):
Oh, wow.
Speaker 1 (00:55):
How did it shape your beliefs, habits or personality
today?
Speaker 2 (00:59):
That's a powerful one it is right.
It is because a lot of timesthe things we experience as a
kid, we don't realize how theyshape us, and then later in life
we kind of find ourselvesacting in ways that we're like
wait, where did that come from?
And then you can trace it backto something in your childhood.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
It makes you wonder how those little things when we
were young really did impact howwe view the world.
And then there's another promptin this category Imagine your
ideal day.
I like that one, from themoment you wake up to the time
you go to sleep.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
describe what a perfect day would look like for
you, I love that because it kindof makes you think about, like,
what do you actually value?
Yes, you know if you coulddesign a perfect day.
What would that look like foryou?
Speaker 1 (01:45):
What would you do?
Yeah, where would you be?
Speaker 2 (01:47):
And sometimes it's surprising.
Speaker 1 (01:49):
Yes.
Speaker 2 (01:49):
The answers you come up with, totally yeah.
Speaker 1 (01:52):
And then this one I kind of like, because it's a
good one to do maybe at the endof the day, describe three
things you're most grateful forright now.
How do they impact your dailyhappiness?
Speaker 2 (02:03):
I think gratitude is such a powerful thing.
Speaker 1 (02:06):
Totally.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
And taking even just a few minutes to think about
what you're grateful for.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (02:12):
Can completely change your outlook.
Speaker 1 (02:14):
It shifts your perspective.
Speaker 2 (02:15):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
You're not focusing on the negative things.
Exactly You're thinking aboutall the positive things.
Speaker 2 (02:19):
Yeah, like it's so easy to just get caught up in
the day to day stress and allthe things that aren't going
right.
But if you actually stop andyou're like, ok, what is going
right, what am I grateful for?
It's like a little reset foryour brain.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
Totally, it helps, rewire it to think positively.
Speaker 2 (02:39):
Yes, exactly.
Speaker 1 (02:40):
Because I think our brains are kind of wired to
think negatively.
Speaker 2 (02:42):
Yeah To focus on the negative Right.
It's like a survival mechanismfrom way back when, but nowadays
it doesn't really serve us.
Speaker 1 (02:49):
Right.
So this is kind of like a wayto combat that.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
Exactly yeah, retraining your brain.
Speaker 1 (02:54):
Train the brain to think positive.
Yes, I love that.
So that is just a few of theprompts from the self-discovery
category, but there are so manymore prompts and we're going to
get to those right after thebreak.
Okay, so we dove intoself-discovery.
What about the exploring dreamscategory?
Speaker 2 (03:13):
Oh, I love this one yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:15):
What is it about exploring dreams that you enjoy?
Speaker 2 (03:19):
Well, because it kind of takes like all that
self-discovery that you did.
And then it helps you kind oflike figure out, like how to use
that to actually create yourdreams.
Speaker 1 (03:28):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:29):
It's like taking action.
Speaker 1 (03:31):
So you're not just thinking about it, you're like,
ok, how can I make this happen?
Speaker 2 (03:34):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:34):
OK, so one prompt that's in this category is
reflect on where you'd like tobe five years from now.
What small actions today willset you on that path?
Speaker 2 (03:45):
I love that because it's like thinking big right
yeah but then also like whattiny little step can you take
today to make it happen?
You don't have to like havethis huge, massive plan yeah
just one little thing, yeah whatabout?
Speaker 1 (03:58):
think about a skill or hobby you've always wanted to
try.
How can you start learningtoday?
I was like we all have those.
Speaker 2 (04:05):
Oh, absolutely.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
Oh, I wish I knew how to play guitar.
Or I wish I could speak Italian.
Speaker 2 (04:09):
Yeah, yeah, totally, and I think sometimes we just
like push those things off.
Speaker 1 (04:13):
Yeah To like oh, someday when I have time?
Yeah, but really there is nosomeday, yeah, it's today,
exactly.
Do it now, yeah, okay.
So what about this one?
Reflect on a time you took aleap of faith.
Speaker 2 (04:25):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:27):
How did it pay off or teach you something valuable?
Speaker 2 (04:30):
Oh, that's a good one , because I think looking back
on times that you like took arisk, you know, can help you get
the courage to take risks now.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Yeah, you know, you see, oh, it wasn't so bad, yeah.
Or even if it didn't work outthe way that I hoped, I still
learned something from it.
Speaker 2 (04:48):
Exactly, and that like you can do hard things.
Yes, you know you've done itbefore Totally, so you can do it
again.
Speaker 1 (04:54):
Yeah, I think that's a powerful message.
Speaker 2 (04:57):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:57):
Okay, so let's talk about gratitude and mindfulness.
Speaker 2 (05:00):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
I feel like that's something that we need more of,
especially in today's world,where everything is so fast
paced and chaotic yes.
Yeah.
So this one I kind of like itmakes you look for the little
things Right about a small actof kindness you witnessed or
experienced today.
How did it impact your mood?
Speaker 2 (05:20):
I love that.
I think kindness is sounderrated.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
Yeah, and I think sometimes, like you said, it's
those small things.
Yeah, that really make thebiggest impact.
Speaker 2 (05:30):
It's like you know you can have a really crappy day
, but then someone like holdsthe door open for you.
You're like oh.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
It changes your whole perspective.
Speaker 2 (05:40):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (05:40):
Maybe the world isn't so bad after all.
Speaker 2 (05:42):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (05:42):
Okay, so what about reflect on three things that
made you smile today?
Speaker 2 (05:48):
Oh, I love that one and it's such a simple thing,
right, yeah, but like what arethose little things that
actually bring you joy?
Speaker 1 (05:54):
Yeah, and I think the more you practice thinking
about that, the more youactually like notice them
throughout the day.
Speaker 2 (06:00):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (06:00):
And that you have more things to be grateful for.
Speaker 2 (06:02):
Yeah, it's like you're training your brain to
notice the good yes, which Ithink is so important.
Speaker 1 (06:08):
Train the brain to be positive.
We've got to do it.
Speaker 2 (06:11):
Yes, we do.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Okay, so one last prompt from this category.
Reflect on how you've grown inthe past year.
What lessons or moments ofgratitude stand out the most?
Speaker 2 (06:23):
Ooh, I love that one.
It's like taking stock of yourjourney, yeah, you know, yeah,
all the ups and downs, the good,the bad, yeah.
Speaker 1 (06:33):
Celebrate the wins.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (06:34):
Learn from the mistakes.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (06:36):
Okay, so I think that's a really good kind of
overview of the differentcategories and the prompts that
are available in this 50 promptsfor journal writing.
Speaker 2 (06:43):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (06:44):
But how do you actually incorporate this into
your daily life?
How do you make it a habit?
Speaker 2 (06:50):
Right, Because it's one thing to have the prompts
but it's another to actually,like you know, sit down and
write.
Speaker 1 (06:56):
Yeah so.
Speaker 2 (06:56):
I think the biggest thing is to not overthink it.
You know like, don't feel likeyou have to write a novel every
day.
It could be just a couplesentences or like bullet points,
even.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
Okay, so like keep it short and simple.
Yeah, exactly To start.
Speaker 2 (07:12):
And find a time that works for you.
You know like some people liketo journal first thing in the
morning, some people like beforethey go to bed.
You know Like maybe whileyou're having your coffee or
something.
Speaker 1 (07:23):
So just find what works for you, yeah, and make it
a routine.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
Exactly, and I think it's helpful to like maybe have
a special notebook that you usejust for journaling.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
Ooh, I like that, Like make it special.
Speaker 2 (07:34):
Yeah, you know, or like get some fun pens, like
make it an experience.
Speaker 1 (07:40):
I like that, like create a vibe, create a mood.
Yeah, like light a candle.
Speaker 2 (07:44):
Yeah, exactly Make it something that you enjoy.
Yes, because I exactly make itsomething that you enjoy.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
Yes, because I think if you make it something that's
like a chore, you're not gonnado it no, and then you're not
gonna reap all the benefits ofit exactly, okay, so you said
like don't overthink it.
Yeah, keep it short, find atime that works for you, make it
special.
Any other like tips to make ita habit yeah, I think.
Speaker 2 (08:06):
Another one, like don't be afraid to experiment.
Oh, you know, like trydifferent prompts, see what
resonates with you.
Um, you know, maybe one day youwant to write like a long
flowing entry, and then anotherday you just want to write a
list, yeah, or like draw apicture or like be creative with
it yeah you don't have to justwrite words.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
Exactly, that's cool, okay, so what about writer's
block?
Speaker 2 (08:32):
Oh yeah, we all get that.
Speaker 1 (08:33):
Yes, how do you deal with that?
Speaker 2 (08:35):
So I think like if you're just like staring at the
page and nothing's coming out,just start writing.
Speaker 1 (08:42):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (08:42):
You know, it doesn't matter what you write.
Speaker 1 (08:44):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (08:44):
Like you could literally write.
I don't know what to write.
Speaker 1 (08:47):
Okay, so just get something on the page.
Speaker 2 (08:48):
Yeah, just like get the pen moving, okay, and
sometimes like that will kind ofhelp you break through that
block.
Speaker 1 (08:55):
Uh-huh.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
And then the ideas will start flowing.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
That's a great tip Like just do it, don't overthink
it.
Speaker 2 (09:00):
Correct, exactly.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
Okay, so any other tips for making the most out of
these prompts?
Speaker 2 (09:07):
Yeah, I would say like take your time Okay, you
know, like really sit with eachprompt Okay and reflect on it.
Okay, and think about how itapplies to you.
Speaker 1 (09:18):
Don't just write an answer just to answer yeah, Like
really put some thought into it.
Speaker 2 (09:22):
Exactly.
And then, after you've written,like, go back and read what you
wrote, okay, and like Like goback and read what you wrote.
Okay and like highlight thingsOkay.
Or like circle things.
Okay, that really stand out toyou.
Speaker 1 (09:33):
I like that.
So you're actively engagingwith what you wrote.
Yeah, yeah.
Speaker 2 (09:37):
And, you know, maybe even ask yourself like what
action can I take based on thisreflection?
Speaker 1 (09:42):
I like that.
So it's not just the writing,it's what you do with it
afterward too.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (09:50):
It that afterward too ?
Yeah, it's like making thoseconnections.
Yes, I love that.
Okay, so do you have anysuggestions?
For those who are like morevisual learners?
Oh yeah, because you knowjournaling doesn't have to just
be words.
Speaker 2 (09:56):
Exactly, you can totally do visual journaling.
Okay, you know like incorporateimages colors.
Okay, so like a collage almostyeah totally Okay, like you
could like, cut out picturesfrom magazines.
You could draw, you know paint.
Speaker 1 (10:10):
You could use stickers like anything, right.
Speaker 2 (10:12):
Yeah, whatever like sparks your creativity.
Speaker 1 (10:15):
I love that.
Okay, so just be creative withit.
Any final tips before we moveon.
Speaker 2 (10:20):
Yeah, I would just say, like, have fun with it,
don't take it too seriously.
You know, it's your journal,it's for you not for anyone else
, exactly.
Speaker 1 (10:32):
you know, it's your journal, it's for you, yeah, not
for anyone else, exactly, okay.
So now that we've talked about,like the prompts, how to make
it a habit, how to get pastwriter's block, what about
actually putting these promptsinto practice?
Speaker 2 (10:40):
right okay.
Speaker 1 (10:41):
So we've talked about the prompts how to make
journaling a habit, how to getpast writer's block, but I think
now it's time to actually putsome of these prompts into
practice and see you know howthey work in real life.
Speaker 2 (10:52):
Right, let's bring these prompts to life.
Speaker 1 (10:54):
Yes, so let's start with the creativity boost
category, because those arealways fun.
What about that prompt aboutimagining a world where everyone
can read minds?
That one kind of freaked me outa little bit, but also
intrigued me.
Speaker 2 (11:08):
Yeah, no, that's a really interesting one, right.
Speaker 1 (11:10):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (11:10):
Because like what would that world look like?
Speaker 1 (11:12):
Yeah, exactly.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
You know, if we could all hear each other's thoughts.
Speaker 1 (11:15):
Yeah, would we even need to talk anymore?
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Right, or would there be more conflict?
Speaker 1 (11:21):
Yeah, or would we just learn to like control our
thoughts better?
Speaker 2 (11:24):
Right, like would you have to like practice
meditation just to like quietyour mind?
Speaker 1 (11:30):
Yeah, just so people couldn't hear everything you're
thinking.
Speaker 2 (11:33):
Yeah, that would be wild.
It would be a whole new world.
Speaker 1 (11:35):
Yeah, okay, what about the wish-granting object?
Speaker 2 (11:38):
Ooh, that one's fun yeah.
Speaker 1 (11:40):
I mean, I feel like that's a classic.
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Right.
Speaker 1 (11:42):
Like everyone's thought about.
You know, if I had a genie in abottle, what would I wish for?
But I feel like this prompt.
It takes it a step further.
Speaker 2 (11:50):
Yeah, it's not just like what's your superficial
wish, you know, it's like whatdo you really want?
Speaker 1 (11:55):
What's your deepest desire?
Speaker 2 (11:57):
Yeah, because if you only get one, wish a year.
Speaker 1 (12:01):
You're not going to waste it on something stupid.
Exactly Right.
Speaker 2 (12:05):
You're going to really think about it.
You're going to have to, likeprioritize your values, yeah.
Speaker 1 (12:08):
Like what is most important to me?
Yeah, okay.
So let's shift gears a littlebit and talk about emotional
reflection.
Speaker 2 (12:15):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (12:16):
So the prompt about reflecting on a time when you
felt deeply misunderstood.
Speaker 2 (12:21):
Yeah, that's a tough one yeah.
Speaker 1 (12:24):
I mean, I think we've all been there Right when we
felt like someone just doesn'tget us.
Speaker 2 (12:29):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (12:30):
And it can be really hurtful it can.
Speaker 2 (12:32):
So how do you approach that prompt in a way
that feels like safe andconstructive?
Speaker 1 (12:38):
yeah, because you don't want to just dwell on the
negative right?
Speaker 2 (12:40):
well, I think like one thing you could do is try to
see it from the other person'sperspective okay, you know, so
like step outside yourself yeah,like why might they have
misunderstood you?
You know, was there somethingyou could have done differently
to communicate more clearly?
Speaker 1 (12:55):
Yeah, because sometimes it's our fault.
Speaker 2 (12:59):
Right, or sometimes it's just a miscommunication.
Speaker 1 (13:03):
Yeah, you know and, I think, by writing about it yeah
you can kind of process thosefeelings and maybe gain some
understanding.
Speaker 2 (13:10):
Yeah, and hopefully like let go of some of that
resentment or hurt.
Yeah, you know.
Speaker 1 (13:15):
Because holding on to that doesn't do anyone any good
.
Speaker 2 (13:17):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (13:18):
Okay, what about the one about identifying a fear
that's holding you back?
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Oh, that's a big one.
Speaker 1 (13:23):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
Because I think a lot of times we don't even want to
admit to ourselves what we'reafraid of.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
Right, but you have to name it in order to tame it.
Speaker 2 (13:32):
Yeah, exactly.
So I think like just beinghonest with yourself about like,
what are you really scared of?
Yeah, you know what's thatthing that's keeping you from
going after your dreams?
Speaker 1 (13:40):
Yeah, or even just like trying something new?
Yeah, ok, and once you'veidentified the fear, then what?
Speaker 2 (13:46):
Well then you can start to think about like what
are some small you know?
Speaker 1 (13:52):
like maybe it's just like talking to someone about it
or like doing some research, orlike just like dipping your toe
in the water, you know.
Speaker 2 (14:01):
Just taking that first step.
Speaker 1 (14:02):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (14:02):
I think that's important.
Ok, so let's talk aboutexploring dreams.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
OK, let's do it.
Speaker 2 (14:08):
How can we use journaling to actually achieve
those big goals that we have?
Speaker 1 (14:14):
Well, I think one thing is like write down your
goals, okay, like actually putthem on paper.
Speaker 2 (14:19):
So you're making it real.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
Yeah, because like when you just have them floating
around in your head.
Speaker 2 (14:23):
Yeah, it's easy to forget about them.
Speaker 1 (14:25):
Yeah, and they just seem like so big and
overwhelming, yeah, but when youactually write them down it's
like okay, this is real.
Speaker 2 (14:32):
It's like a contract with yourself.
Speaker 1 (14:33):
Yeah, exactly, and then like break them down into
smaller steps.
Speaker 2 (14:37):
Okay, you know.
So you're creating a plan.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
Yeah, like what are some actionable steps that you
can take to actually achievethat goal?
I like that, okay.
So what about the prompt?
About reflecting on a time whenyou took a leap of faith?
Speaker 2 (14:52):
Oh, I love that one because it's like reminding
yourself that you've done hardthings before.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
Yes, you know, you've stepped outside your comfort
zone.
Speaker 2 (14:59):
Yeah, you've taken risks and you know, even if
things didn't work out perfectly.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
You learned something from it, yeah.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
And you're still here .
Speaker 1 (15:06):
You survived.
Speaker 2 (15:06):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (15:07):
Yeah, you're stronger because of it.
Speaker 2 (15:08):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (15:09):
Okay, and lastly, gratitude and mindfulness.
Okay, ok, we need that, you do.
We need more of it.
Speaker 2 (15:15):
Especially now.
Speaker 1 (15:16):
Especially now.
Ok, so how can we make thosegratitude prompts more than just
like fluffy feel good exercises?
Speaker 2 (15:25):
Yeah, I think it's about like really digging deep.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
OK.
Speaker 2 (15:30):
You know like not just listing things you're
grateful for, but like why areyou grateful for them?
Ok, how do they make you feel?
Speaker 1 (15:37):
Okay, so really like connect with those feelings of
gratitude.
Speaker 2 (15:40):
Yeah, and then like who are you grateful for?
Speaker 1 (15:44):
Oh, yeah, like the people in your life.
Speaker 2 (15:46):
Yeah, and like why are you grateful for them?
What do they bring to your life?
Speaker 1 (15:51):
I like that yeah.
Okay, and then, lastly, theprompt about reflecting on how
you've grown in the past year.
How can we make that a trulymeaningful reflection?
Speaker 2 (16:02):
Yeah, I think like take some time with that one.
Speaker 1 (16:04):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (16:05):
You know, really think about like what challenges
did you face?
Speaker 1 (16:09):
Uh-huh.
Speaker 2 (16:09):
What did you learn, uh-huh.
You know what are you proud of?
Speaker 1 (16:12):
Yeah, and like celebrate those wins.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Yeah, because I think sometimes we forget to do that.
Speaker 1 (16:17):
Yeah, we're so focused on what's next.
Speaker 2 (16:19):
Right.
Speaker 1 (16:20):
That we don't take the time to like appreciate how
far we've come.
Speaker 2 (16:24):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (16:25):
Yeah Well, I don't know about you, but I am feeling
incredibly inspired.
Speaker 2 (16:28):
Me too.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
I want to go home and start journaling right now.
Speaker 2 (16:31):
Yeah, I think we've like barely scratched the
surface of all the amazingprompts that are out there.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
And all the benefits that come with journaling.
Speaker 2 (16:38):
Exactly so.
For our listeners, I'd say picka prompt and start writing.
Speaker 1 (16:42):
Yeah, even if it's just for five minutes a day.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
Yeah, you might be surprised at what you discover.
Speaker 1 (16:47):
Yeah, and you might even learn a little something
about yourself along the way.
Speaker 2 (16:50):
Totally.
Speaker 1 (16:52):
That's it for this deep dive folks.
We hope you feel inspired topick.
Welcome back everyone to the Deep Dive.
Today we're taking a deep diveinto something that can help
unlock your inner storyteller,help you learn a little bit more
about yourself, maybe evenboost your creativity.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
Ooh, that sounds exciting.
Speaker 1 (00:12):
It is.
We're talking about journaling.
Speaker 2 (00:14):
OK.
Speaker 1 (00:14):
But not just any kind of journaling.
We're going to be looking at 50prompts for journal writing
from the Lestallion blog.
I love that.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Yeah, from the Lestallion blog.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
I love that.
Yeah, these prompts aredesigned to make you think a
little bit differently than justlike dear diary.
This is what I had for lunchtoday.
Speaker 2 (00:29):
Yeah, it's not just what you did that day, but
actually digging a little deeper.
Speaker 1 (00:33):
Exactly, there are five categories of prompts.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
Wow Okay.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
Self-discovery, creativity, boost, emotional
reflection, exploring dreams,and gratitude and mindfulness.
So let's start withself-discovery.
Okay, there's one prompt inhere that really stood out to me
.
Okay, reflect on a significantmemory from your childhood.
Speaker 2 (00:54):
Oh, wow.
Speaker 1 (00:55):
How did it shape your beliefs, habits or personality
today?
Speaker 2 (00:59):
That's a powerful one it is right.
It is because a lot of timesthe things we experience as a
kid, we don't realize how theyshape us, and then later in life
we kind of find ourselvesacting in ways that we're like
wait, where did that come from?
And then you can trace it backto something in your childhood.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
It makes you wonder how those little things when we
were young really did impact howwe view the world.
And then there's another promptin this category Imagine your
ideal day.
I like that one, from themoment you wake up to the time
you go to sleep.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
describe what a perfect day would look like for
you, I love that because it kindof makes you think about, like,
what do you actually value?
Yes, you know if you coulddesign a perfect day.
What would that look like foryou?
Speaker 1 (01:45):
What would you do?
Yeah, where would you be?
Speaker 2 (01:47):
And sometimes it's surprising.
Speaker 1 (01:49):
Yes.
Speaker 2 (01:49):
The answers you come up with, totally yeah.
Speaker 1 (01:52):
And then this one I kind of like, because it's a
good one to do maybe at the endof the day, describe three
things you're most grateful forright now.
How do they impact your dailyhappiness?
Speaker 2 (02:03):
I think gratitude is such a powerful thing.
Speaker 1 (02:06):
Totally.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
And taking even just a few minutes to think about
what you're grateful for.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (02:12):
Can completely change your outlook.
Speaker 1 (02:14):
It shifts your perspective.
Speaker 2 (02:15):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
You're not focusing on the negative things.
Exactly You're thinking aboutall the positive things.
Speaker 2 (02:19):
Yeah, like it's so easy to just get caught up in
the day to day stress and allthe things that aren't going
right.
But if you actually stop andyou're like, ok, what is going
right, what am I grateful for?
It's like a little reset foryour brain.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
Totally, it helps, rewire it to think positively.
Speaker 2 (02:39):
Yes, exactly.
Speaker 1 (02:40):
Because I think our brains are kind of wired to
think negatively.
Speaker 2 (02:42):
Yeah To focus on the negative Right.
It's like a survival mechanismfrom way back when, but nowadays
it doesn't really serve us.
Speaker 1 (02:49):
Right.
So this is kind of like a wayto combat that.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
Exactly yeah, retraining your brain.
Speaker 1 (02:54):
Train the brain to think positive.
Yes, I love that.
So that is just a few of theprompts from the self-discovery
category, but there are so manymore prompts and we're going to
get to those right after thebreak.
Okay, so we dove intoself-discovery.
What about the exploring dreamscategory?
Speaker 2 (03:13):
Oh, I love this one yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:15):
What is it about exploring dreams that you enjoy?
Speaker 2 (03:19):
Well, because it kind of takes like all that
self-discovery that you did.
And then it helps you kind oflike figure out, like how to use
that to actually create yourdreams.
Speaker 1 (03:28):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:29):
It's like taking action.
Speaker 1 (03:31):
So you're not just thinking about it, you're like,
ok, how can I make this happen?
Speaker 2 (03:34):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (03:34):
OK, so one prompt that's in this category is
reflect on where you'd like tobe five years from now.
What small actions today willset you on that path?
Speaker 2 (03:45):
I love that because it's like thinking big right
yeah but then also like whattiny little step can you take
today to make it happen?
You don't have to like havethis huge, massive plan yeah
just one little thing, yeah whatabout?
Speaker 1 (03:58):
think about a skill or hobby you've always wanted to
try.
How can you start learningtoday?
I was like we all have those.
Speaker 2 (04:05):
Oh, absolutely.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
Oh, I wish I knew how to play guitar.
Or I wish I could speak Italian.
Speaker 2 (04:09):
Yeah, yeah, totally, and I think sometimes we just
like push those things off.
Speaker 1 (04:13):
Yeah To like oh, someday when I have time?
Yeah, but really there is nosomeday, yeah, it's today,
exactly.
Do it now, yeah, okay.
So what about this one?
Reflect on a time you took aleap of faith.
Speaker 2 (04:25):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:27):
How did it pay off or teach you something valuable?
Speaker 2 (04:30):
Oh, that's a good one , because I think looking back
on times that you like took arisk, you know, can help you get
the courage to take risks now.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Yeah, you know, you see, oh, it wasn't so bad, yeah.
Or even if it didn't work outthe way that I hoped, I still
learned something from it.
Speaker 2 (04:48):
Exactly, and that like you can do hard things.
Yes, you know you've done itbefore Totally, so you can do it
again.
Speaker 1 (04:54):
Yeah, I think that's a powerful message.
Speaker 2 (04:57):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:57):
Okay, so let's talk about gratitude and mindfulness.
Speaker 2 (05:00):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
I feel like that's something that we need more of,
especially in today's world,where everything is so fast
paced and chaotic yes.
Yeah.
So this one I kind of like itmakes you look for the little
things Right about a small actof kindness you witnessed or
experienced today.
How did it impact your mood?
Speaker 2 (05:20):
I love that.
I think kindness is sounderrated.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
Yeah, and I think sometimes, like you said, it's
those small things.
Yeah, that really make thebiggest impact.
Speaker 2 (05:30):
It's like you know you can have a really crappy day
, but then someone like holdsthe door open for you.
You're like oh.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
It changes your whole perspective.
Speaker 2 (05:40):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (05:40):
Maybe the world isn't so bad after all.
Speaker 2 (05:42):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (05:42):
Okay, so what about reflect on three things that
made you smile today?
Speaker 2 (05:48):
Oh, I love that one and it's such a simple thing,
right, yeah, but like what arethose little things that
actually bring you joy?
Speaker 1 (05:54):
Yeah, and I think the more you practice thinking
about that, the more youactually like notice them
throughout the day.
Speaker 2 (06:00):
Absolutely.
Speaker 1 (06:00):
And that you have more things to be grateful for.
Speaker 2 (06:02):
Yeah, it's like you're training your brain to
notice the good yes, which Ithink is so important.
Speaker 1 (06:08):
Train the brain to be positive.
We've got to do it.
Speaker 2 (06:11):
Yes, we do.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Okay, so one last prompt from this category.
Reflect on how you've grown inthe past year.
What lessons or moments ofgratitude stand out the most?
Speaker 2 (06:23):
Ooh, I love that one.
It's like taking stock of yourjourney, yeah, you know, yeah,
all the ups and downs, the good,the bad, yeah.
Speaker 1 (06:33):
Celebrate the wins.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
Yes.
Speaker 1 (06:34):
Learn from the mistakes.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (06:36):
Okay, so I think that's a really good kind of
overview of the differentcategories and the prompts that
are available in this 50 promptsfor journal writing.
Speaker 2 (06:43):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (06:44):
But how do you actually incorporate this into
your daily life?
How do you make it a habit?
Speaker 2 (06:50):
Right, Because it's one thing to have the prompts
but it's another to actually,like you know, sit down and
write.
Speaker 1 (06:56):
Yeah so.
Speaker 2 (06:56):
I think the biggest thing is to not overthink it.
You know like, don't feel likeyou have to write a novel every
day.
It could be just a couplesentences or like bullet points,
even.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
Okay, so like keep it short and simple.
Yeah, exactly To start.
Speaker 2 (07:12):
And find a time that works for you.
You know like some people liketo journal first thing in the
morning, some people like beforethey go to bed.
You know Like maybe whileyou're having your coffee or
something.
Speaker 1 (07:23):
So just find what works for you, yeah, and make it
a routine.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
Exactly, and I think it's helpful to like maybe have
a special notebook that you usejust for journaling.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
Ooh, I like that, Like make it special.
Speaker 2 (07:34):
Yeah, you know, or like get some fun pens, like
make it an experience.
Speaker 1 (07:40):
I like that, like create a vibe, create a mood.
Yeah, like light a candle.
Speaker 2 (07:44):
Yeah, exactly Make it something that you enjoy.
Yes, because I exactly make itsomething that you enjoy.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
Yes, because I think if you make it something that's
like a chore, you're not gonnado it no, and then you're not
gonna reap all the benefits ofit exactly, okay, so you said
like don't overthink it.
Yeah, keep it short, find atime that works for you, make it
special.
Any other like tips to make ita habit yeah, I think.
Speaker 2 (08:06):
Another one, like don't be afraid to experiment.
Oh, you know, like trydifferent prompts, see what
resonates with you.
Um, you know, maybe one day youwant to write like a long
flowing entry, and then anotherday you just want to write a
list, yeah, or like draw apicture or like be creative with
it yeah you don't have to justwrite words.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
Exactly, that's cool, okay, so what about writer's
block?
Speaker 2 (08:32):
Oh yeah, we all get that.
Speaker 1 (08:33):
Yes, how do you deal with that?
Speaker 2 (08:35):
So I think like if you're just like staring at the
page and nothing's coming out,just start writing.
Speaker 1 (08:42):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (08:42):
You know, it doesn't matter what you write.
Speaker 1 (08:44):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (08:44):
Like you could literally write.
I don't know what to write.
Speaker 1 (08:47):
Okay, so just get something on the page.
Speaker 2 (08:48):
Yeah, just like get the pen moving, okay, and
sometimes like that will kind ofhelp you break through that
block.
Speaker 1 (08:55):
Uh-huh.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
And then the ideas will start flowing.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
That's a great tip Like just do it, don't overthink
it.
Speaker 2 (09:00):
Correct, exactly.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
Okay, so any other tips for making the most out of
these prompts?
Speaker 2 (09:07):
Yeah, I would say like take your time Okay, you
know, like really sit with eachprompt Okay and reflect on it.
Okay, and think about how itapplies to you.
Speaker 1 (09:18):
Don't just write an answer just to answer yeah, Like
really put some thought into it.
Speaker 2 (09:22):
Exactly.
And then, after you've written,like, go back and read what you
wrote, okay, and like Like goback and read what you wrote.
Okay and like highlight thingsOkay.
Or like circle things.
Okay, that really stand out toyou.
Speaker 1 (09:33):
I like that.
So you're actively engagingwith what you wrote.
Yeah, yeah.
Speaker 2 (09:37):
And, you know, maybe even ask yourself like what
action can I take based on thisreflection?
Speaker 1 (09:42):
I like that.
So it's not just the writing,it's what you do with it
afterward too.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (09:50):
It that afterward too ?
Yeah, it's like making thoseconnections.
Yes, I love that.
Okay, so do you have anysuggestions?
For those who are like morevisual learners?
Oh yeah, because you knowjournaling doesn't have to just
be words.
Speaker 2 (09:56):
Exactly, you can totally do visual journaling.
Okay, you know like incorporateimages colors.
Okay, so like a collage almostyeah totally Okay, like you
could like, cut out picturesfrom magazines.
You could draw, you know paint.
Speaker 1 (10:10):
You could use stickers like anything, right.
Speaker 2 (10:12):
Yeah, whatever like sparks your creativity.
Speaker 1 (10:15):
I love that.
Okay, so just be creative withit.
Any final tips before we moveon.
Speaker 2 (10:20):
Yeah, I would just say, like, have fun with it,
don't take it too seriously.
You know, it's your journal,it's for you not for anyone else
, exactly.
Speaker 1 (10:32):
you know, it's your journal, it's for you, yeah, not
for anyone else, exactly, okay.
So now that we've talked about,like the prompts, how to make
it a habit, how to get pastwriter's block, what about
actually putting these promptsinto practice?
Speaker 2 (10:40):
right okay.
Speaker 1 (10:41):
So we've talked about the prompts how to make
journaling a habit, how to getpast writer's block, but I think
now it's time to actually putsome of these prompts into
practice and see you know howthey work in real life.
Speaker 2 (10:52):
Right, let's bring these prompts to life.
Speaker 1 (10:54):
Yes, so let's start with the creativity boost
category, because those arealways fun.
What about that prompt aboutimagining a world where everyone
can read minds?
That one kind of freaked me outa little bit, but also
intrigued me.
Speaker 2 (11:08):
Yeah, no, that's a really interesting one, right.
Speaker 1 (11:10):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (11:10):
Because like what would that world look like?
Speaker 1 (11:12):
Yeah, exactly.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
You know, if we could all hear each other's thoughts.
Speaker 1 (11:15):
Yeah, would we even need to talk anymore?
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Right, or would there be more conflict?
Speaker 1 (11:21):
Yeah, or would we just learn to like control our
thoughts better?
Speaker 2 (11:24):
Right, like would you have to like practice
meditation just to like quietyour mind?
Speaker 1 (11:30):
Yeah, just so people couldn't hear everything you're
thinking.
Speaker 2 (11:33):
Yeah, that would be wild.
It would be a whole new world.
Speaker 1 (11:35):
Yeah, okay, what about the wish-granting object?
Speaker 2 (11:38):
Ooh, that one's fun yeah.
Speaker 1 (11:40):
I mean, I feel like that's a classic.
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Right.
Speaker 1 (11:42):
Like everyone's thought about.
You know, if I had a genie in abottle, what would I wish for?
But I feel like this prompt.
It takes it a step further.
Speaker 2 (11:50):
Yeah, it's not just like what's your superficial
wish, you know, it's like whatdo you really want?
Speaker 1 (11:55):
What's your deepest desire?
Speaker 2 (11:57):
Yeah, because if you only get one, wish a year.
Speaker 1 (12:01):
You're not going to waste it on something stupid.
Exactly Right.
Speaker 2 (12:05):
You're going to really think about it.
You're going to have to, likeprioritize your values, yeah.
Speaker 1 (12:08):
Like what is most important to me?
Yeah, okay.
So let's shift gears a littlebit and talk about emotional
reflection.
Speaker 2 (12:15):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (12:16):
So the prompt about reflecting on a time when you
felt deeply misunderstood.
Speaker 2 (12:21):
Yeah, that's a tough one yeah.
Speaker 1 (12:24):
I mean, I think we've all been there Right when we
felt like someone just doesn'tget us.
Speaker 2 (12:29):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (12:30):
And it can be really hurtful it can.
Speaker 2 (12:32):
So how do you approach that prompt in a way
that feels like safe andconstructive?
Speaker 1 (12:38):
yeah, because you don't want to just dwell on the
negative right?
Speaker 2 (12:40):
well, I think like one thing you could do is try to
see it from the other person'sperspective okay, you know, so
like step outside yourself yeah,like why might they have
misunderstood you?
You know, was there somethingyou could have done differently
to communicate more clearly?
Speaker 1 (12:55):
Yeah, because sometimes it's our fault.
Speaker 2 (12:59):
Right, or sometimes it's just a miscommunication.
Speaker 1 (13:03):
Yeah, you know and, I think, by writing about it yeah
you can kind of process thosefeelings and maybe gain some
understanding.
Speaker 2 (13:10):
Yeah, and hopefully like let go of some of that
resentment or hurt.
Yeah, you know.
Speaker 1 (13:15):
Because holding on to that doesn't do anyone any good
.
Speaker 2 (13:17):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (13:18):
Okay, what about the one about identifying a fear
that's holding you back?
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Oh, that's a big one.
Speaker 1 (13:23):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
Because I think a lot of times we don't even want to
admit to ourselves what we'reafraid of.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
Right, but you have to name it in order to tame it.
Speaker 2 (13:32):
Yeah, exactly.
So I think like just beinghonest with yourself about like,
what are you really scared of?
Yeah, you know what's thatthing that's keeping you from
going after your dreams?
Speaker 1 (13:40):
Yeah, or even just like trying something new?
Yeah, ok, and once you'veidentified the fear, then what?
Speaker 2 (13:46):
Well then you can start to think about like what
are some small you know?
Speaker 1 (13:52):
like maybe it's just like talking to someone about it
or like doing some research, orlike just like dipping your toe
in the water, you know.
Speaker 2 (14:01):
Just taking that first step.
Speaker 1 (14:02):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (14:02):
I think that's important.
Ok, so let's talk aboutexploring dreams.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
OK, let's do it.
Speaker 2 (14:08):
How can we use journaling to actually achieve
those big goals that we have?
Speaker 1 (14:14):
Well, I think one thing is like write down your
goals, okay, like actually putthem on paper.
Speaker 2 (14:19):
So you're making it real.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
Yeah, because like when you just have them floating
around in your head.
Speaker 2 (14:23):
Yeah, it's easy to forget about them.
Speaker 1 (14:25):
Yeah, and they just seem like so big and
overwhelming, yeah, but when youactually write them down it's
like okay, this is real.
Speaker 2 (14:32):
It's like a contract with yourself.
Speaker 1 (14:33):
Yeah, exactly, and then like break them down into
smaller steps.
Speaker 2 (14:37):
Okay, you know.
So you're creating a plan.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
Yeah, like what are some actionable steps that you
can take to actually achievethat goal?
I like that, okay.
So what about the prompt?
About reflecting on a time whenyou took a leap of faith?
Speaker 2 (14:52):
Oh, I love that one because it's like reminding
yourself that you've done hardthings before.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
Yes, you know, you've stepped outside your comfort
zone.
Speaker 2 (14:59):
Yeah, you've taken risks and you know, even if
things didn't work out perfectly.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
You learned something from it, yeah.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
And you're still here .
Speaker 1 (15:06):
You survived.
Speaker 2 (15:06):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (15:07):
Yeah, you're stronger because of it.
Speaker 2 (15:08):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (15:09):
Okay, and lastly, gratitude and mindfulness.
Okay, ok, we need that, you do.
We need more of it.
Speaker 2 (15:15):
Especially now.
Speaker 1 (15:16):
Especially now.
Ok, so how can we make thosegratitude prompts more than just
like fluffy feel good exercises?
Speaker 2 (15:25):
Yeah, I think it's about like really digging deep.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
OK.
Speaker 2 (15:30):
You know like not just listing things you're
grateful for, but like why areyou grateful for them?
Ok, how do they make you feel?
Speaker 1 (15:37):
Okay, so really like connect with those feelings of
gratitude.
Speaker 2 (15:40):
Yeah, and then like who are you grateful for?
Speaker 1 (15:44):
Oh, yeah, like the people in your life.
Speaker 2 (15:46):
Yeah, and like why are you grateful for them?
What do they bring to your life?
Speaker 1 (15:51):
I like that yeah.
Okay, and then, lastly, theprompt about reflecting on how
you've grown in the past year.
How can we make that a trulymeaningful reflection?
Speaker 2 (16:02):
Yeah, I think like take some time with that one.
Speaker 1 (16:04):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (16:05):
You know, really think about like what challenges
did you face?
Speaker 1 (16:09):
Uh-huh.
Speaker 2 (16:09):
What did you learn, uh-huh.
You know what are you proud of?
Speaker 1 (16:12):
Yeah, and like celebrate those wins.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Yeah, because I think sometimes we forget to do that.
Speaker 1 (16:17):
Yeah, we're so focused on what's next.
Speaker 2 (16:19):
Right.
Speaker 1 (16:20):
That we don't take the time to like appreciate how
far we've come.
Speaker 2 (16:24):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (16:25):
Yeah Well, I don't know about you, but I am feeling
incredibly inspired.
Speaker 2 (16:28):
Me too.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
I want to go home and start journaling right now.
Speaker 2 (16:31):
Yeah, I think we've like barely scratched the
surface of all the amazingprompts that are out there.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
And all the benefits that come with journaling.
Speaker 2 (16:38):
Exactly so.
For our listeners, I'd say picka prompt and start writing.
Speaker 1 (16:42):
Yeah, even if it's just for five minutes a day.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
Yeah, you might be surprised at what you discover.
Speaker 1 (16:47):
Yeah, and you might even learn a little something
about yourself along the way.
Speaker 2 (16:50):
Totally.
Speaker 1 (16:52):
That's it for this deep dive folks.
We hope you feel inspired topick.
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