The start of a new year is like a blank page—filled with possibility. Whether or not you set resolutions, it’s a great time to reconnect with your creative goals and intentions.
Writing prompts are one of my favorite ways to do this.
Last year, a prompt pushed me to write about a place I’d never been, and what came out surprised me: a descriptive scene set in the mountains of a country I’ve only read about.
That one exercise led to an entire short story and reminded me how simple starts can ignite bigger creative ideas.
To get you started, I’ve curated three writing prompts to help you start 2025 with fresh energy.
I've also included an image with each of the prompts, and you can use the images as bonus prompts to generate a setting, poem fragment, story idea, or scene starter.
Whether you’re a poet, storyteller, essayist, or journaling enthusiast, these are open-ended enough to fit any writer. And if you take on one of these prompts, be sure to let me know!
1. Reflect on a pivotal moment from last year
It's often helpful to look back so we can move forward. For this first prompt, think about an experience from 2024 that shifted your perspective.
If you had a big, momentous event, that's a great option! But it doesn’t have to be monumental to be meaningful—maybe it was a quiet moment that stayed with you. Write about what happened, how it felt, and what you learned from it.
For example, did you have a conversation that changed your thinking? Or maybe a small victory reminded you of your ability to rebound and keep moving? Capture the emotions and sensory details to bring the moment to life.
2. Envision your ideal day in 2025
What does your dream day look like? Start in the morning and walk through it hour by hour. Where are you? What are you doing? Who’s with you?
This isn’t about creating a to-do list. And it doesn't even have to relate to writing! That's because instead of being product focuses, this prompt offers an opportunity to visualize what inspires you and feels fulfilling so you can keep writing!
Maybe you’re writing in a café in another country or having an uninterrupted creative day at home. Or maybe your ideal day involves attending a concert or celebrating with friends.
Whatever comes, let your imagination run wild, but keep it grounded in what truly brings you joy.
3. Write a letter to your future self
Sometimes, it's helpful to "talk" to yourself by writing a letter to the future version of you. So for this prompt, pretend it’s January 1, 2026, and you’re writing a letter to yourself today.
Take some time to think through your writing goals for the year ahead. What advice would you give? What milestones do you hope you’ve achieved?
Be honest, encouraging, and specific. Maybe you’ll thank yourself for starting that project you’ve been putting off or remind yourself not to shy away from creative risks.
This exercise is both reflective and motivating. It helps you bridge or connect who you are now with who you want to become, so you can write more of what makes you happy this year!
Bonus prompt: Make time to write!
Writing prompts like these aren’t just exercises—they’re invitations to reconnect with your creativity. Start small—pick one prompt and give yourself 10–15 minutes. See where it takes you.
Sometimes, all it takes is a little structure and community to jumpstart your creativity.
If you’re looking for more support or inspiration, consider attending a local write-in (like the one I host every Friday here in the Bay Area!) or joining a writing retreat (like the one I’m hosting this month!).
My 4-Day Virtual Writing Retreat starts January 20th and runs from 9 AM to 11 AM Pacific / 12 PM to 2 PM Eastern every day for four days. Learn more and reserve your seat here!
Your creativity deserves time and space this year. Whether you explore these prompts or dive into a larger project, I hope you’ll prioritize your writing and enjoy the process.
Did you try one of the above writing prompts? Or do you have a special way to kick off your year of writing? Let me know in the comments below or by sending me a message!
Happy New Year, and happy writing!
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