15 Writing Prompts for Self Discovery

by Saia, Glendale branch

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As a writer and an educator, I have spent a lot of time thinking about how I can use my writing to connect to myself and others. I strive to take what I have learned from what I write and apply it to what I teach. Lately, I have been circling back to topics that surround self discovery and identity. 

Identity is something that we as humans continually discover. Some things that can help us on this journey are the things that we value, the names that we take on or reject, and the relationships that we have with others. 

Writing has been a way for me to peel back the layers of who I am. I have a list of 15 writing prompts that have helped me to reflect on who I am and the kind of person that I want to be. I hope this can help you on your journey too. 

• Names
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1. What is your name/last name? 
2. Who named you? 
3. Does your name have a meaning? If so, what is it? 
4. Why were you given that name? 
5. Why are names important? 

 

• Values 

 

1. What do you care about? 
2. Why do you care about those things? 
3. What is something about the world that you think should be changed? 
4. How would you be a part of changing it? 
5. What stops you from making that change happen? 

 

• Dig Deeper

 

1. Name 5 things you know to be true about yourself. 
2. If your skin could speak, what would it say? 
3. Write a eulogy for yourself. 
4. What makes people lie? What makes you lie? 
5. What does it take for you to trust in someone? 

Part of the process of self discovery is to share what you have learned. I invite you to share your writing with a trusted friend or family member- anyone that you feel comfortable with.  If you would like to share with us here at the City Library you can submit your writing here. 

Happy writing:) 

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