As the year draws to a close and we stand on the brink of 2020, the possibilities for self-improvement and personal growth are endless. Often, one of the most powerful tools for progress is the written word. Whether you are an avid journaler, a dreamy poet, or someone looking to capture life’s moments more richly, writing can be your gateway to self-discovery and accomplishment.
To help ignite your creative spark in the days leading up to the New Year, we’ve compiled 20 inspiring writing prompts. Each one is crafted to guide you through reflection, joy, honesty, and imagination. So, pick up your pen and let these prompts guide you through the final countdown to 2020.
December 31: Swap New Year’s Resolutions for Fresh Monthly Goals
Instead of the cliché, often forgotten yearly resolutions, why not shake things up this time? Write down 12 attainable, monthly goals focusing on your aspirations. From mastering new vocabularies in a foreign language to tackling new reading challenges, each month can unfold a chapter of achievements. Much like language learning apps that provide daily lessons, these bite-sized objectives will keep you consistently engaged and motivated.
Example: “In January, I’ll dedicate 15 minutes each day to brushing up on Spanish with Chatmunk.ai, in February, I will write a love poem, and come March, I’ll read at least two novels written in Spanish.”
December 30: Send a Heartfelt Text to Your Best Friend
Friendships are treasures that deserve to be celebrated. Draft a message or a letter expressing your gratitude and love for your lifelong confidant. Your words can be as simple as thanking them for specific moments or as profound as sharing how they’ve helped shape the person you are.
Example: “Hey Alex, I just wanted to say that I really appreciate all the late-night study sessions and the crazy language learning games. I’m not only thanking you for being my study buddy but also for being a true friend.”
December 29: Craft a Letter to Your Future Self for Next Year
Imagine opening a letter from the past, filled with hopes, dreams, and plans. Write that letter to yourself, one year from now, reflecting on all you hope to have experienced and learned. This can be particularly poignant if you’re currently learning a new language or starting a new writing project. How far do you aspire to have come?
Example: “Future Me, I hope by now you’ve finished writing your novella and can have a basic conversation in Italian. Remember, every word learned was a step forward.”
December 28: Describe Your Perfect Winter Day
Paint a picture with words that bring to life your ideal frosty day. Is it curled up with a good book by the fireplace, or outside making snow angels and practicing foreign language greetings with friends? Your description should serve to immerse you and the reader in a serene winter wonderland.
Example: “A mug of hot cocoa in hand, I recite my new vocabulary list, each word melting away the winter chill. Outside, the snow falls gently, setting the scene for a peaceful afternoon of linguistic exploration.”
December 27: List Five Things You Learned This Year
Learning is a journey with no final destination. Take a moment to write down the five most impactful lessons this year imparted upon you, whether they’re life lessons, academic achievements or linguistic triumphs. Reflecting on what these experiences have taught you can be an incredible catalyst for growth.
Example: “1. Patience is key in language acquisition. 2. Procrastination is the nemesis of progress. 3. Every culture has a unique story to tell. 4. Expressing gratitude can transform your day. 5. The most challenging writing prompts often yield the most satisfying revelations.”
December 26: Write a Poem About Your Favorite Holiday Memory
Poetry can capture the essence of feelings and memories like no other form of writing. Compose a heartfelt poem about a holiday memory dear to you. Whether its the thrill of conversation flows in a newly learned language or the warmth of gathered family, let rhythm and rhyme encapsulate the moment.
Example: “Beneath the twinkling lights so bright, / We shared tales of Christmases past, / Our voices blending, pure delight, / In memories that forever last.”
December 25: Create a Short Story Set on Christmas Day
Finally, harness the magic of storytelling by creating a short story that takes place on Christmas Day. It could be a fictional tale inspired by your own experiences or a fantastical journey that explores traditions from around the globe. Let the spirit of the holiday season fuel your imagination and your words.
Example: “In a quiet village blanketed by snow, a young girl discovers an ancient book of languages in her grandmother’s attic. On Christmas Day, she whispers a greeting in an almost forgotten tongue, only to awaken a world of magical creatures who teach her the true language of connection.”
These writing prompts are stepping stones to finishing the year with creativity and introspection. A successful writer once said, The scariest moment is always just before you start. So, conquer these prompts one by one and welcome the wonder of the New Year with a heart full of stories and a mind ripe with fresh possibilities.
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