Courage to Start Journaling Prompts for Teens

Being a teen means facing a long list of firsts—first big projects, first friendships, first responsibilities, first dreams that feel like they matter. Each “first” can feel larger than life because it comes with uncertainty and the worry of being judged. Starting doesn’t always feel easy, but courage is built each time a teen decides to move forward, even with shaky hands.

Courage to Start: Journaling Prompts for Teens

Here are ten prompts designed to help teens build courage and feel ready to take the first step:

1. What’s one new thing I want to try but feel nervous about?

2. What’s the worst that could happen if I start—and what’s the best?

3. How would I feel a month from now if I took the first step today?

4. What’s one time I was scared to begin, but I did it anyway? What happened?

5. Who in my life encourages me to be brave, and how do they inspire me?

6. What’s one small step I can take this week to show courage?

7. What do I usually tell myself when I hesitate, and what could I say instead?

8. How do I want to describe myself a year from now when it comes to courage?

9. If fear couldn’t stop me, what would I start right away?

10. How do I want to celebrate myself for starting, even if it’s hard?

Your Permission Slip to Begin

Here's what you need to know: you don't have to wait until you feel ready. You don't have to wait until you have something important to say. You don't have to wait until you're a better writer or a deeper thinker.

The courage to start journaling is really the courage to believe that your inner world matters. That your questions are worth exploring. That your growth is worth investing in.

Every person you admire started somewhere. Every confident adult was once an uncertain teenager. The difference? They found ways to understand themselves, challenge their fears, and keep growing.

Your journal can be that tool for you.

The blank page isn't intimidating—it's full of possibilities. It's waiting for your voice, your questions, your discoveries. All you need is the courage to pick up a pen and start writing.

What are you waiting for?