Writing Prompt + Journaling Tips for August

It’s hard to believe we are in the month of August, friends! Does anyone else still marvel every time a new month begins? New month means new intentions and new journal writing prompts! Whether you write daily or throughout the month, it’s time to get started. Read on for tips and this month’s writing prompt for all your journaling joy.

Tips for journaling

It is quite easy to set ambitious writing goals.  Believe me, I know it all too well.  I declare “I’m going to write several pages daily!” only to find that I’ve barely written at all.  My tip is to aim high and set attainable.  Instead of committing to a word count, how about choosing a specific amount of time to write?  I used to be overwhelmed by my days and too tired to write at night. When I think about allotting 15 minutes, it feels achievable to get words down on paper (or words on a screen) and not be held back by length.  That said, I’d also recommend jotting down thoughts during the day if you are able.  That way when you go to write your entry, you have a short outline. If you have other tips, let me know below in the comments.

Theme of the Month

When journaling, having a theme or guiding question or phrase is also helpful.  Since my goal is to have an authentic share of thoughts based on my experiences, I am choosing an overall theme rather than daily questions.  This month, the theme for journal writing prompts is happiness.  Specifically, I’ll be reflecting on increasing it, pursuing it when times are hard, and thinking of happiness as a part of me.  Read about each question below!

Writing Prompt 1: How can I add happiness to my day?

Don’t worry, be happy.  Those are words from a classic Bobby McFerrin song.  While I admire the sentiment, I tend to be a worrier, always concerned with risk and the future.  So, the reframe for me is worry a little, pursue happy. A little bit of worry and thinking about the future is natural.  What is harmful is when it dictates your every mood.  You can pursue happy and this article from Inc. has great tips for incorporating happiness daily—backed by science!  My earlier article on easy mood boosters may be helpful to you as well.

Writing Prompt 2: How can I find extra in the ordinary?

I’m going to keep it real.  Many days during quarantine feel ordinary.  While there are different conversations and certainly different headlines daily, today’s normal can feel routine. This begs the question of how to find that je ne sais quoi or that something extra daily.  It may feel challenging but I believe there is always something that we can find that is special or unique, whether in an insight, lesson, or other affirmation.  It may not be daily but there are beautiful things happening around us in the world.

Writing Prompt 3: Happiness is an art and science

I’ve been listening to the podcast The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos, which is an extension of her popular Yale course The Science of Well-Being. In both the course and throughout the stories shared on the podcast, happiness is discussed as a science in terms of human psychology and makeup.  As an art, happiness is a state of being. The question here is how can I tend to my well-being in a way where happiness is a regular part?  I imagine this is where I’ll have the deepest reflection.  I’m already looking forward to it!

Go forth and explore happiness

I hope you find these monthly writing prompts helpful.  Remember, it’s not all about the frequency to which you write.  It is about the reflection and release that comes from critical thinking and writing.  As you navigate one or all of these prompts, I send you the best vibes and clarity.  It’s okay to feel—that is where growth and change can happen. 

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Sharing is caring!

Writing prompt ready? Please share (Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook, etc.) if this article resonates for you and potentially for others.  Also, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a quick comment to let me know if you’re just getting into journaling like me or if you’re an experienced journal writer.  We got this!