10 journal prompts that will help you make a decision
Feeling stuck around a decision is such a tough place to be in. Whether you’re not sure which path to take or you feel overwhelmed by the choices in front of you, the pressure to make the “right” decision can feel paralyzing. I’ve been there too and it’s no fun.
Although I can’t make the decision for you (nor can anyone else!) it might help to know that it’s totally normal to feel uncertain when faced with a decision. After all, our brains are wired to seek the safest and most logical path forward.
But here’s the thing: often when faced with a tough decision, there’s no way of knowing what the “right” choice is until we actually move forward. In fact, sometimes there isn’t even a “right” choice. Instead, your choices just take you down one path instead of another.
So what do we do in these cases? How do we make a choice that we feel good about?
I’m a big fan of journaling when I feel like I’m at a crossroad or I’m not sure how to move forward. Journaling allows me to reflect on all of the possible opportunities and outcomes… kind of like a way to talk things out on paper.
Writing down your thoughts can be an incredibly helpful way to sort through the mental clutter, evaluate your options, and uncover the best path for you. By asking the right questions, you can release the pressure of making the “perfect” choice and start trusting yourself to make the best decision for where you are right now.
Below, you’ll find 10 journal prompts designed to help you navigate decision-making with more confidence and clarity. Use them to reflect on your options and guide yourself toward a choice that aligns with your own inner knowing. You can work through a few of these prompts, or explore them all to help you find the clarity you’re seeking!
10 journal prompts for when you need to make a decision
- What is the best possible outcome of this decision and how would it make me feel?
- What is the worst possible outcome and how would I handle it if it happened?
- What are the big and small reasons I feel hesitant or stuck about this choice?
- How does each options align with my values?
- If I had no fear of failure or judgment, what choice would I make?
- How could this decision impact my life in one year? Five years?
- How would I feel if I didn’t make this decision? Would I regret it later?
- What small step could I take toward making this decision that would make it feel less overwhelming?
- What advice would I give to a friend in my position?
- What do I already know deep down about the right choice for me?
I hope you found these prompts helpful! For more prompts or to learn more about journaling, check out this page.