Have you ever felt stagnant? Like you’re not growing, not experiencing any personal growth?

I did for a long time. If I’m being honest, I still kind of do.

It had a lot to do with following the same routines, not taking time to reflect, and losing track of what I wanted for my life.

During this season, I realized that personal growth isn’t just about accolades, promotions, or any other external markers of success. It’s about discovering new things about myself and using those discoveries to determine what’s next for me.

But let’s be real – personal growth isn’t always a straight upward climb. It’s more like a two-step-forward-one-step-back kind of thing. It’s about embracing the slow growth moments as learning opportunities, and understanding that even in moments of (perceived) stagnation, I’m still growing.

If you’re ready to grow, I want to remind you of one of the easiest tools you should bring on your journey—journaling.

I think y’all already know how much I believe in the power of journaling, but in case you don’t let me remind you. Journaling is one of the most valuable, accessible tools we have to help us to move out of feeling stuck. Journaling has been a lifesaver for me. Like, literally.

Sold, yet? Great! Here are 24 prompts to use as you journal your way to personal growth:

Journal Prompts for Personal Growth

1. Reflect on a time when trusting your gut impacted your personal growth.
2. Write about a book (poem, article, etc.) that inspired a change in your life.
3. What is one thing you could do today to get closer to a personal goal you have?
4. How are your childhood dreams reflected in your current life?
5. Describe a setback that helped you to grow.
6. Write about a mentor or role model who has influenced you.
7. Reflect on a moment when you demonstrated resilience during a challenging time.
8. What are some of the factors that guide your decision-making?
9. Write your mission statement.
10. How do you make time for self-care as you work towards your goals?
11. Reflect on a habit you’d like to break and outline steps to replace it with a positive one.
12. Describe a new perspective you’ve gained recently and how broadened your horizons.
13. Write about an experience that challenged your beliefs and how it led to personal growth.
14. Describe your proudest accomplishment to date.
15. Reflect on how a mistake you made turned it into a valuable lesson.
16. Describe a life lesson you’ve learned from a loved one that you always return to.
17. Write about a personal challenge you’ve overcome and how it shaped your character.
18. How do you practice gratitude as you work on your personal growth?
19. What areas in your life require more boundaries to achieve your goals?
20. What is your long-term vision for personal growth?
21. Describe a positive experience you had when you stepped out of your comfort zone.
22. Write about a habit that contributes positively to your personal development.
23. How does self-reflection fit into your growth journey?
24. Celebrate your progress on a goal you’re working towards.

Personal Growth Is Ongoing

Keep in mind that personal growth is ongoing work. There’s always something new and interesting to learn about ourselves. And with new information comes a change in perspective and mindset.

Don’t worry if you’re feeling stagnant today. With a little intentional reflection (and some journaling, of course), you’ll be back in growth mode in no time!