Journal Writing Tips: Using “If” Statements 2

Life is a never-ending source of journaling prompts. We can write about current events, past events, and imagined future events. One fun (and often revealing) kind of journal writing prompt is the “If …” statement or question.

• If I had been born male, instead of female, what sports would I have played, and why?
• If I could live anywhere in the world, it would be ____________, because …
• If I could do one thing to help improve others’ lives, it would be ____________, because …
• If I could have any super power, I would choose __________, because …

“If” prompts may be about anything from the fantastic (super powers) to the realistic (where I live) and that they may be formed as questions or statements. The other thing that all “If” journaling prompts have in common is that they end with a “why” or “because.” This helps us explore what underlies our responses.

“If” prompts are unlimited … created through imagination and curiosity about the world. So …

• If you could have any super power, which would you choose, and why?
• If you were a cat, what kind of cat would you be, and what kind of “owners” would you like to have … and why?
• If you were extremely wealthy, you would use your money to ____________, because …
• If you could live as long as you chose, how many years do you think you’d want to live, and why?
• If you could change only one thing about your life, it would be ___________, because …

Now, it’s your turn. Create and share one of your “If” journaling prompts in the comment box below.

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Image Credit: Filip Bunkens