Blank Journal Page? Start with a Prompt

Many people think the toughest part of creative journaling is making the page look nice, but often the hardest part is simply getting started.

You have your journal and supplies, a set time to create, but the blank page can feel intimidating. With so many options, it can be hard to start.

Blank-page paralysis is real, and it’s one of the main reasons people stop before they ever get going.

It’s easy to assume you aren’t creative when really, you may just need an easier entry point.

That’s where prompts can help. A clear prompt gives you something to respond to when the blank page feels too open-ended. It narrows your focus just enough to help you begin.

A prompt I like is: “Describe a small moment from today that brought you some joy or comfort.” Another is: “List three things you noticed this week that you haven’t written about before.”

These kinds of prompts don’t box you in. They give you a doorway into the page. From there, you can follow the words, memories, images, or ideas that come up.

Prompts matter because they guide your attention to what's meaningful. With that spark, you can simply start creating.

In my latest video, I share the simple framework I use when I’m not sure what to create and how I use a prompt to get started without overthinking.

I pick a prompt, write my first thoughts, and follow whatever comes up. It's an easy way to start without perfectionism.

Do you use prompts when journaling?

Learn more about the Pages in Progress prompt deck!