7 Journal Prompts to Create a Year You Love

 

Intentional living feels simple in theory, but putting it into practice can feel like a puzzle. Between the whirlwind of daily life, holiday leftovers, and the mental clutter of resolutions, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters.

Journaling is one of the most powerful ways to bring clarity, focus, and intention into your life. It’s not about perfection or writing the “right” answers—it’s about connecting with yourself, your values, and the vision you have for the year ahead.

These seven journal prompts are designed to help you create a year that feels aligned, joyful, and authentically yours. Take your time with each one, and remember: your answers don’t have to be perfect—they just have to be yours.

1. What moments from this past year brought me the most joy?

Reflecting on the past helps you identify patterns of happiness and fulfillment. By tuning into the experiences that lit you up, you can better prioritize them in the year ahead.

Quick Tip: Make a list of the top 5 moments that made your heart feel full — then consider why each one mattered.

2. What are three things I want to release or let go of this year?

Intentional living isn’t just about adding—it’s also about letting go of what weighs you down. These can be habits, limiting beliefs, or even obligations that no longer serve you.

Quick Tip: Write down each item and imagine gently placing it into a box, freeing space for new energy and opportunities.

3. What values do I want to guide my year?

Identifying your core values helps you make decisions that feel aligned and authentic. When your actions reflect your values, life feels lighter, more purposeful, and more joyful.

Quick Tip: Pick 3–5 words that resonate most with your heart (e.g., connection, creativity, balance) and keep them visible throughout the year.

4. How do I want to feel at the end of this year?

Focusing on feelings instead of just goals allows you to shape experiences rather than chase outcomes. What emotions would you like to carry with you day to day?

Quick Tip: List the top 5 feelings you want to embody (e.g., peace, confidence, curiosity), then brainstorm small actions to invite each feeling into your life.

5. What are three small daily or weekly practices that would make my life feel aligned?

Intentional living is built on consistent, small choices. These don’t have to be monumental — they just need to support your vision for a life you love.

Quick Tip: Choose practices that are realistic and energizing, like journaling, a 10-minute walk, or a mindful morning ritual.

6. Who or what will support me in creating a year I love?

Surrounding yourself with people, resources, and environments that uplift you is essential. Intentional living thrives when you have a support system aligned with your goals and values.

Quick Tip: Write a list of people, communities, or tools that energize you, and consider ways to engage with them more consistently this year.

7. What is one intention I want to carry with me every day?

An overarching intention acts as a compass, keeping you grounded and focused even when life gets hectic. Your intention can be a word, phrase, or guiding principle.

Quick Tip: Pick a single word or short phrase that resonates deeply with you (e.g., presence, ease, abundance) and place it somewhere visible to remind yourself daily.

Additional Journal Prompts for Reflection

  • How did last year align (or not) with my values?

  • What am I most proud of accomplishing?

  • Where did I overextend myself, and how can I recalibrate?

  • Which daily habits gave me energy, and which drained me?

  • What intentions feel most authentic for the coming year?

Affirmations for Intentional Living

  • I create a life that reflects my values and joy.

  • I release what no longer serves me.

  • Each small choice I make contributes to the life I love.

  • I am aligned with my true self and my vision.

  • My days are guided by presence, not obligation.

Final Thoughts

Intentional living doesn’t mean doing everything perfectly — it means choosing what matters most and letting go of what doesn’t. These journal prompts are tools to help you connect with yourself, set your intentions, and create a year that feels authentically yours.

Take your time, write honestly, and revisit your prompts throughout the year. With consistency and self-awareness, you’ll notice your days unfolding with more clarity, ease, and joy — one intentional choice at a time.

Still Have Questions?

If you have more questions that I didn’t address here, based on your specific situation or anything else, please don’t hesitate to ask me. I’d love to see how I could be of service!

 
Chanaya Hancock

Hi there! I'm Chanaya, your go-to Reiki Master and Holistic Tech Guide. My mission? Helping folks like you find their inner glow and shine like never before. When I'm not spreading good vibes, you'll catch me listening to a fantasy novel or whipping up something sweet in the kitchen. I'm a big fan of cozy gaming nights with my husband and cuddle sessions with my two puppy buddies. Let's journey together toward healing and happiness — one mindful step at a time!

https://www.lightintoyou.com
Next
Next

New Year, New You? Why You Don’t Need to Change — Just Align