How to Approach These Prompts if You Feel Overwhelmed by The Idea of Journaling
With so many deep and powerful questions, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Take your time — this process isn’t about rushing through these prompts, but about really getting to the heart of your creative purpose and uncovering what you need to express. Here are some ways to approach journaling, especially if you feel resistance:
1. Start with One or Two Questions at a Time
Instead of tackling the whole list at once, focus on just one or two prompts per session. Choose the questions that feel most relevant to you right now, or the ones that spark curiosity. This helps prevent feeling overwhelmed and allows you to dig deeper into each prompt without rushing.
2. Print the Prompts and Use Them as a Daily Guide
Consider printing the prompts or writing them down in a notebook, then picking one prompt per day to work through. Allow yourself the space to reflect, without feeling like you have to answer everything in one sitting. Over time, you’ll develop a clearer sense of your creative goals.
3. Free Write and Let Your Thoughts Flow
Don’t worry about writing perfectly or making your answers sound polished. Let your thoughts flow freely, even if they seem unrelated at first. The act of writing without censoring yourself helps tap into deeper insights that you might not have consciously realized.
4. If You Feel Resistance, That’s a Sign!
Resistance is a signal that there’s something important under the surface. If you feel stuck, challenged, or uncomfortable with a specific prompt, it’s worth exploring further. Ask yourself why you’re resistant to that particular question.
Sometimes the most important insights come when we push through those uncomfortable moments. It can be helpful to:
- Acknowledge the resistance without judgment.
- Ask what fear or belief is connected to the resistance.
- Sit with that discomfort for a moment — you might find new clarity there.
5. Don’t Force Answers — Allow Let Them Unfold Over Time
Some prompts may not have immediate answers, and that’s okay! Allow your answers to unfold over time. You may find that your responses change as you continue to reflect on your work and your purpose. This process is about discovery, not perfection.
6. Create a Sacred Space for Journaling
If journaling feels hard, try changing the environment. Light a candle, play soft music, or create a ritual around your journaling practice. Make it feel like a sacred time just for you. The more comfortable and relaxed you are, the more likely you’ll feel open to diving into the deeper questions.
7. Journaling Doesn’t Always Mean Writing
If you’re struggling with the idea of writing, get creative. You can:
- Draw or sketch how you’re feeling about a particular prompt.
- Mind-map your thoughts around a question to visually explore your responses.
- Record voice notes on your phone, speaking freely about your thoughts.
Remember, the goal is to express yourself, not necessarily to write long essays.
8. Take Breaks and Come Back Later
If you feel mentally fatigued or frustrated, take a break and come back later. Sometimes stepping away from the journal allows your subconscious to work through things and give you new insights when you return.
9. What to Do When You Feel Resistance to Journaling:
- Start Small: You don’t need to write a novel. Start with a sentence or two in response to a question.
- Be Gentle with Yourself: If journaling feels difficult, don’t force it. Start where you’re comfortable and gradually challenge yourself.
- Allow Imperfection: Don’t worry if your writing isn’t “good” or “polished.” This is your personal journey, and there’s no wrong way to express it.
By journaling in a way that feels accessible and non-intimidating, you can gain profound insights into your creative goals. It’s all about getting comfortable with the process, embracing your unique voice, and allowing the answers to emerge when they’re ready.