Mental health is an essential part of everyday health. Even though there is more to do to increase access to mental health care, awareness is promising. There is a direct tie to mental health when it comes to stress and stress management. This post will explore journaling during life changes and a few prompts to get started. Let’s do this!
Benefits to journaling during life changes
Journaling to manage life changes is a healthy coping mechanism and supports overall mental health. Think about it. When you change, something is different. According to Talkspace, your brain responds the same way whether you welcome the change or unexpected. To that end, self-care is essential. While self-care activities differ for individuals, exercise, healthy eating, and journaling are common denominators.
My story with journaling
In the past year, I’ve experienced significant life changes. These changes go beyond the pandemic, more resounding calls for racial equity and justice, and general overwhelm. In addition to all of that, I experienced job loss and transition. While that meant space for reflection and further growth, I also experienced a shift in identity. One of many things that helped me enter this year more positively was journaling. I wasn’t consistent by any means, and I didn’t always write on paper. The amazing thing is that there is no set way to journal. The point is being able to share unfiltered feelings and has an opportunity to reflect on these feelings. Thinking about my mindset last year brought me into a better place in the new year. The same can be true for you too.
RELATED POST: Writing Prompt + Journaling Tips
Journaling During Life Changes—the prompts!
The moment you’ve been waiting for. The journal prompts! I framed these around the concept of different paths still leading to something positive. To get there, though, we must take it step-by-step.
We often create elaborate goals for the month without accounting for how we respond to changes to these plans.
WHAT NIA KNOWS
PROMPT QUESTIONS
- What steps can I take this month to move closer to my goal or desired state?
- How will I manage unexpected changes to these plans?
- How can I embrace the power of difference?
Journaling will not change your circumstances, but it can support your mental health and self-care.
WHAT NIA KNOWS
Did you find these prompts helpful? Will you journal for the month ahead? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, please consider supporting through 1) sharing on social (Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest buttons are all above), 2 ) leaving a comment, and 3) signing up for the official What Nia Knows newsletter. Your support means everything!
Now go forth with clarity!
In wellness and community,
Nia
4 Comments
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Comments are closed.I love those promPts! I agree, journaling can bring A lot oF claRity around your feelings and absolutely your goals too. Thanks doe shaRing, nia!
Thanks for commenting, Adriana! I’m glad you love the prompts 🙂 Completely agree that you can gain much clarity around feelings and goals.
Thanks for these prompts. I have journaled on and off over the years and started again this month but currently just journal about my day. I like these prompts to get me thinking!
Hi Kathleen, thank you for sharing. Journaling about your day gives you great insight, especially if you look back at your writing. Glad to hear you may thinking about these prompts!