journal prompts for the new year

As the clock ticks closer towards midnight and the start of a new year approaches (hello 2026, I am so ready for you!), I wanted to share some journal prompts I use every year to reflect on the year that has passed.

The space in between the beginning of the holiday break and getting back into your usual routine in January is the perfect opportunity to take some time for yourself and think about wins, challenges, lessons learned, what you’re carrying forward, and what you’re leaving behind. And, if you’re wanting to start journalling more often, prompts are a great way to begin your practice.

These prompts also help me think about my goals, habits, what I want more of, and what I am looking forward to in the year ahead. Over the years, these prompts have evolved; feel free to incorporate them into your journal practice as they are or make them your own.

~What did I learn about myself this year?

~What am I proud of that I didn’t celebrate enough

~What did I outgrow? (These might be routines, habits, beliefs, relationships…)

~What surprised me most about this year? (These could be positive surprises or challenging ones) What did these surprises teach me?

~What was the biggest lesson of 2025?

~What do I want more of in 2026?

~What am I ready to stop doing in 2026?

~What is one bold move I want to make this year?

~What support systems do I need to build or strengthen?

~What am I willing to release or leave behind?

~How can I show up for myself this month in a way that helps sets the tone for the year?

~What small routines or habits do I want to start in the New Year?

I wish you a happy and healthy 2026!

~Kate 🌱

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