End Of The Year Writing Prompts

Post Updated on December 23, 2020

At the end of every year, I like to reflect on everything that's happened over the past twelve months. Though 2020 was memorable for unfortunate reasons, I've already forgotten some of the smaller things that happened over the course of the year.

Remember when Tiger King and whipped coffee were all we talked about for a while? That feels like a lifetime ago. Sometimes changes in our lives are so subtle that we barely notice they're happening. You might not have recognized the wins you had or the ways you've grown because there were other things fighting for your attention.

30 end of year journal prompts to close out this chapter and move into the new year with a fresh mindset

If you're like me, the goals you set in January may no longer feel relevant. You might have put them on the back-burner because other things took priority. And that's okay. Give yourself some credit for dealing with something that none of us have ever experienced before.

Sidenote on my goals: I did pay off half of my credit card debt and built up my emergency fund.

Whether you achieved your goals or not, it's helpful to take a moment to process your experience of the past year. That way, you can let go of anything that's weighing you down.

To help you reflect on the year, I've put together a list of 30 end of year journal prompts to close out this chapter and move into the new year with a fresh mindset.

I recommend setting aside 30 minutes or so to let yourself journal and be in the moment. Create a comfy environment by making a cup of your favorite beverage, putting on a calming playlist, and lighting a candle. Savor this mindful ritual with yourself!

30 End of Year Journal Prompts for Self-Reflection

Click here to download the printable version

Challenges & Wins

What were your biggest challenges from the year? What did you learn from them?
What were your biggest wins from the year? What did you accomplish? What are you proud of yourself for?

Resources

What helped you to get through this year? (e.g. routines, boundaries, relationships, resources)
What were your favorite books, movies, shows, and songs from the past year?

Inner Self

How would you describe the version of yourself from the past year? How have you changed since last year? In what ways have you grown this year?
What kind of person do you want to become next year? How do you want to grow? How can you treat yourself with love, respect, and patience?

Wellness

How well did you take care of yourself this year? Did you prioritize exercise, sleep, and nutrition?
How will you commit to taking even better care of yourself next year?

Boundaries

What kind of boundaries did you set for yourself and others this year? How did you uphold those boundaries? Where did you let them slide?
What do you want your boundaries to look like for next year? How will you prioritize them?

Routine

What did your typical daily routine look like this year? How did you start and end your days?
What do you want your routine to look like for next year? What would be your ideal morning and evening routines?

Priorities

What were your top three priorities this past year? (e.g. work, family, finances, self-care, mental health, etc)
What are your top three priorities for next year? Why are they important to you?

Work

How satisfied were you with your work this year? What did you enjoy and not enjoy?
What changes could you make next year will help you feel fulfilled with your work?

Environment

What role did your environment play in your life this year? (Think of your living space, community, workspace, nature, etc)
Do you want to make any changes to your environment next year? What would your ideal environment look and feel like?

Emotions

What emotions did you experience this past year? Did you allow yourself to feel or talk about them freely?
What feelings do you want to embrace for next year? What intentions do you want to set?

Thoughts

What was your mindset like this year? Did you overthink or overanalyze anything in particular?
How can you improve your mindset in the next year? How will you commit to keeping a healthy mindset?

Connections

Who did you connect with this year? Who made you feel the most supported?
Who do you want to connect with next year? What kind of people do you want to surround yourself with?

Fun & Hobbies

How did you relax and unwind this year? What were your favorite memories? Did you start any new hobbies or nurture old ones?
What do you want to explore more of next year? What does fun look like to you?

Gratitude

Who are you most grateful for? What are you most grateful for? Write down why you are grateful for these people and things.
How can you express your gratitude more next year?

Goals & Growth

What goals did you set for yourself at the beginning of the year? Did you achieve them? (Note: Remember to give yourself grace if you didn't achieve your goals)
What are your goals for next year? What do you want to learn or get better at? Think of work, health, finances, relationships, and home. What tools or resources will help you stay on track with your goals?

See you next year!

I hope these end of year journal prompts help you reflect on the past year and move into the new year with ease and intention. Feel free to leave a comment with some of your reflections from this list!

In the mood for some goal setting? Check out this post about how to create a vision plan for the future.