Journaling Prompts for Connection with Self
In the personal development and coaching world (or via the slogans on coffee mugs and t-shirts) we're constantly hearing things like Let your true self shine. Be you. Show up as your authentic self. Find your voice. These phrases are totally cliche, but cringe, really great messaging. Why on earth be any other way than ourselves? I think we're all on board with the sentiment. But what if you don't know who the heck you are? Really and truly in your core.
We are constantly digesting and absorbing other people's thoughts. We embody phrases because after hearing them enough, and finding a common thread, we start to mold to them. Think about the "hustle harder" mentality. Many, entrepreneurs and professionals, though not all, value busy and hustle. They feel they're supposed to, it becomes a badge to flash around. Similarly, cutely scripted t's will have you thinking moms need wine to survive the evening with their kids. Hustle is great, if that's your thing. Have a glass of vino with dinner if you're feeling it.
WHAT GETS TRICKY IS TRYING TO DECIPHER IF IT'S REALLY YOUR THING OR YOU THINK IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE YOUR THING.
So, back to what to do if you’re exploring who you are in your core. I've got a few prompts to get you thinking about it. Grab a pen and your journal and, without too much internal processing before your pen hits the page, journal the answers to these questions...
I feel most like myself when I'm ____________.
I feel most like myself when I'm with the following people ______________.
I am unapologetic in my beliefs about _____________.
The last time I felt most alive and energized I was __________.
I will always, forever wave a flag for _______ because ________________.
This I know to be true ________________.
That last question comes from Oprah and I love it. This I know to be true. It’s a great question to ask yourself every day (there’s not just one answer) or when you’re feeling unsettled.
These questions are just scratching the surface to a space of connecting with your voice. Have fun with it, explore. Then (one of my top journaling tips) return to your journal in a few days and give what you wrote another read. Sometimes the real power comes in the re-read.
Photo by Heather Nash Photography.