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Spark Creativity: Writing Ideas for Senior Citizens

Welcome, senior citizens! Are you ready to ignite your creativity through the power of writing? Whether you’re looking to preserve memories, exercise your mind , or simply find a new outlet for self-expression, creative writing can be a valuable and fulfilling practice for older adults. In this article, we’ll explore various writing ideas and projects specifically designed for senior citizens.

Key Takeaways:

  • Journaling is a powerful tool for seniors, promoting memory preservation , exercising the mind, creating routine, boosting creativity, and providing stress relief .
  • Journaling prompts can help seniors get started with their writing practice, whether it’s writing about day-to-day events, childhood memories, or favorite books and movies.
  • Engaging in creative projects like photo collaging , finger painting , and decorating flower pots can tap into seniors’ artistic side and provide a fun and meaningful activity.
  • Joining a book club can offer seniors the opportunity to dive into fiction and explore their preferred genres, including the option of enjoying audiobooks .
  • Narrative writing allows seniors to share their personal stories and experiences, unleashing their creativity through fictional and personal narrative prompts .

The Benefits of Journaling for Seniors

Memory Preservation

Journaling is a valuable practice for seniors, offering numerous benefits for their overall well-being. Not only does it provide a means of recording thoughts and experiences, but it also plays a vital role in memory preservation . By engaging in regular journaling, seniors can exercise their minds, creating routine and structure in their daily lives.

One of the key advantages of journaling for seniors is its ability to boost creativity . Putting pen to paper allows for self-expression and the exploration of new ideas. It can also serve as a stress reliever, providing a safe outlet for expressing worries and anxieties.

Furthermore, journaling offers seniors the opportunity to sharpen their memory recall skills. By writing about their experiences and reflecting on their thoughts, seniors can strengthen their ability to remember details and important information. This aspect of journaling is particularly beneficial for seniors who may be dealing with memory challenges or cognitive decline.

Journaling is not just about capturing the present moment; it is also about creating a legacy. Seniors can write with the knowledge that their words will be cherished by future generations, providing a window into their lives and wisdom.

The Benefits of Journaling for Seniors:

  • Promotes memory preservation
  • Exercises the mind
  • Creates routine and structure
  • Boosts creativity
  • Provides stress relief

Journaling Prompts for Seniors

journaling prompts for seniors

Journaling is a wonderful way for seniors to express themselves and engage in self-reflection. It can be a therapeutic practice that promotes mental well-being and cultivates creativity. If you or a loved one are interested in starting a journaling practice, here are some prompts to get you started:

Prompts for Day-to-Day Reflection

  • Write about your favorite part of the day.
  • Describe a small act of kindness you witnessed or experienced.
  • Reflect on a recent conversation that made you smile.

Prompts for Memory Exploration

  • Recall a cherished childhood memory and write about it in detail.
  • Describe a favorite family tradition and what it means to you.
  • Write about a memorable trip you took and how it impacted your life.

Prompts for Connecting with Nature

  • Observe a flower or a tree and write about its beauty and significance.
  • Describe a peaceful outdoor spot that brings you joy.
  • Write about a favorite season and the sensory experiences it evokes.

Prompts for Exploring Interests

  • Write about a book that has had a lasting impact on you.
  • Share your thoughts on a movie or a TV show you recently enjoyed.
  • Describe a concert or a live performance that brought you joy.

These prompts are just a starting point, and you can tailor them to your own preferences and experiences. Remember, journaling is a personal journey, so feel free to explore different themes and topics that resonate with you. Happy writing!

Creative Projects for Seniors: Photo Collaging

Photo Collaging

Engaging in creative projects can have numerous benefits for seniors, including enhancing cognitive abilities, fostering self-expression, and providing a sense of accomplishment. One popular creative activity for seniors is photo collaging , a versatile and enjoyable way to preserve memories and spark conversations.

Photo collaging involves arranging and pasting photographs onto a surface, such as a themed scrapbook or poster board . Seniors can gather their favorite photos from different stages of their lives and create a visual representation of cherished moments and relationships. This process encourages reminiscence and can be a catalyst for sharing stories and experiences with loved ones.

A themed scrapbook is a creative project that allows seniors to organize and display their photographs around a specific topic, such as family vacations, milestone events, or hobbies. By curating images and adding captions or descriptions, seniors can create a personalized narrative that encapsulates their life journey. Themed scrapbooks also make meaningful gifts for family members and friends.

Poster board collages offer seniors a larger canvas to express their creativity. They can attach photos, quotes, and decorative elements to create visually captivating displays. Poster board collages can be hung on walls or displayed on easels, serving as conversation starters and decorative pieces in their living spaces.

Creative Projects for Seniors: Finger Painting

finger painting for seniors

Finger painting is a fun and easy way for seniors to exercise their creative muscles. It provides a unique opportunity for self-expression and allows seniors to explore their artistic abilities in a forgiving and playful manner. Unlike traditional painting techniques that may require fine motor skills, finger painting allows seniors to use their fingers to apply paint directly onto the canvas, creating vibrant and colorful artwork.

One of the advantages of finger painting is that it doesn’t require any prior painting experience or expertise. Seniors can simply squeeze easily manageable bottles of finger paint onto their canvas and use their fingers to spread and blend the colors. The forgiving nature of finger painting allows for experimentation and exploration, making it an ideal art style for seniors who may be new to painting or are looking for a more relaxed and enjoyable creative outlet.

“Finger painting is a great way for seniors to reconnect with their inner child and tap into their creativity. It can be a therapeutic and enjoyable activity that promotes relaxation and stimulates the senses,” says art therapist Sarah Johnson.

Not only is finger painting a stimulating and enjoyable activity, but it also offers numerous cognitive and emotional benefits for seniors. Engaging in artistic activities like finger painting can help improve cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. It also provides a means of self-expression and can serve as a valuable tool for emotional release and stress reduction.

In addition to the individual benefits, finger painting can also be a social activity for seniors. It can be done in group settings, allowing seniors to bond, share their artwork, and engage in meaningful conversations. Finger painting can be incorporated into senior centers, art therapy programs, or even family gatherings, creating opportunities for connection and companionship.

Overall, finger painting is a versatile and accessible creative project for seniors. It allows them to explore their artistic side, exercise their creative muscles, and experience the joy of self-expression. Whether done individually or in a group, finger painting offers a therapeutic and enjoyable activity that can enhance the overall well-being of seniors.

Creative Projects for Seniors: Decorating Flower Pots

decorating flower pots

As spring approaches, seniors can engage in a fun and creative project by decorating flower pots . This activity not only celebrates the season but also brings the beauty of the outdoors inside. By personalizing their pots, seniors can add a touch of their unique style and creativity to their indoor plants .

To begin, seniors can choose different types of indoor plants , such as succulents or peace lilies, that thrive in the comfort of their homes. Once they have selected their plants, they can start decorating the pots using various materials. Paints, decals, and even nail polish can be used to add vibrant colors, patterns, and designs to the pots.

Seniors can let their imagination run wild when decorating their flower pots. They can create intricate patterns, write inspiring quotes, or paint scenes from nature. This activity not only allows seniors to express their creativity but also gives them a sense of accomplishment as they see their personalized pots come to life. The decorated flower pots can be displayed on windowsills, tabletops, or anywhere that needs a touch of nature and color.

Decorating Flower Pots: Tips for Seniors

  • Choose plants that are suitable for indoor environments and require minimal maintenance.
  • Experiment with different painting techniques such as stenciling, sponge painting, or using paintbrushes.
  • Consider adding a clear coat of varnish or sealant to protect the artwork and make the pots more durable.
  • Explore using different types of materials like ribbons, beads, or buttons to add texture and dimension.
  • Invite friends or family members to join in the activity for a fun and collaborative crafting session.

Decorating flower pots is not only a creative project for seniors but also a therapeutic and rewarding experience. It brings joy, fosters self-expression, and adds a personal touch to their living spaces. So, grab some brushes and paints, let your imagination bloom, and enjoy the process of transforming plain flower pots into unique works of art.

Creative Projects for Seniors: Join a Book Club

Join a Book Club

Joining a book club is a creative and engaging activity for seniors who have a love for fiction and a desire to connect with others who share their passion. Book clubs provide seniors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in captivating stories, explore different genres, and expand their literary horizons. Whether it’s a physical gathering or a virtual club, participating in a book club offers numerous benefits for seniors.

Seniors can choose a book club that focuses on their preferred genre , whether it’s mystery, romance, science fiction , or historical fiction. By reading and discussing books with like-minded individuals, seniors can dive into the intricate plots, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes that fiction has to offer. Sharing insights, opinions, and personal interpretations of the stories can spark creativity and inspire seniors to explore their own storytelling abilities.

In addition to reading physical books, seniors can also enjoy the convenience and accessibility of audiobooks . Audiobooks allow seniors to indulge in captivating stories while engaging in other activities such as walking, gardening, or relaxing at home. This multi-sensory experience can enhance the enjoyment and imagination sparked by the narrative, providing a stimulating and enriching experience for seniors.

Benefits of Joining a Book Club as a Senior:

  • Engages seniors in the world of fiction
  • Allows exploration of preferred genres
  • Offers opportunities for stimulating discussion
  • Enhances creativity and storytelling abilities
  • Provides social connections and community

By joining a book club, seniors can embark on an exciting literary journey, immersing themselves in the power of fiction while nurturing their creativity and connecting with fellow book lovers. Whether it’s through in-person meetings or virtual gatherings, book clubs offer a space for seniors to share their reflections, delve into captivating stories, and appreciate the magic of storytelling.

Narrative Writing for Seniors: What is Narrative Writing?

narrative writing for seniors

Narrative writing is a form of storytelling that allows individuals to share their experiences, ideas, and emotions through a structured narrative. It involves crafting a story with a beginning, middle, and end, using various literary elements to engage the reader. Seniors can explore the art of narrative writing to express themselves creatively and reflect on their own personal narratives .

At its core, narrative writing involves the use of characters, settings, problems, and solutions to create a cohesive and engaging story. It allows seniors to delve into their memories, imagination, and observations to shape compelling narratives. By focusing on personal experiences, seniors can add authenticity and depth to their stories, making them more relatable and memorable.

Through narrative writing, seniors can not only preserve their own stories but also leave a lasting legacy for future generations. These personal narratives can chronicle important milestones, adventures, lessons, and significant moments in their lives. Whether it’s a heartfelt memoir, a fictional tale, or a reflection on a particular event, narrative writing provides seniors with a creative outlet for self-expression and storytelling.

Narrative Writing Prompts for Seniors

Writing narratives can be a fulfilling and imaginative activity for seniors looking to explore their creativity. Narrative writing prompts can provide that spark of inspiration to get seniors started on their storytelling journey. Whether it’s writing fiction or personal narratives , these prompts are designed to ignite the imagination and bring stories to life.

Fiction Prompts

  • Imagine you wake up one day with the ability to fly. Write a story about how it changes your life.
  • Write a fictional tale about a hidden treasure that is discovered in an unlikely location.
  • Create a story set in a futuristic world where robots have taken over human jobs.

Personal Narrative Prompts

  • Write about a proud moment in your life and the emotions you felt.
  • Share a heart-racing experience that left a lasting impact on you.
  • Describe a memorable vacation and the adventures you had along the way.

Storytelling Prompts

“Every great story starts with a great character.” – Unknown

Storytelling prompts can help seniors tap into their storytelling abilities and create engaging narratives. These prompts provide the opportunity to develop interesting characters and explore captivating plotlines. Seniors can let their creativity flow and share stories that captivate readers.

So, grab a pen and paper or your favorite writing device, and get ready to embark on a storytelling adventure. The creative writing ideas for elderly individuals are endless, and with the help of prompts, seniors can unlock their imagination and share their unique stories with the world.

Narrative Writing Rubrics for Seniors

Narrative writing rubrics are valuable tools for assessing and evaluating the writing skills of senior citizens. These rubrics provide clear guidelines and criteria for measuring the quality and proficiency of narrative writing. They help both students and teachers understand the expectations and standards of narrative writing and can be tailored to be student-friendly, teacher-friendly, and time-saving.

Student-friendly rubrics are designed to be easily understood by seniors and provide them with a framework for self-assessment. These rubrics break down the elements of narrative writing and provide clear descriptions of each level of proficiency. By using student-friendly rubrics , seniors can independently evaluate their own writing and set goals for improvement.

Teacher-friendly rubrics , on the other hand, are comprehensive tools that allow teachers to assess seniors’ narrative writing effectively. These rubrics provide a detailed breakdown of the different elements of narrative writing and assign scores to each aspect, ensuring that all areas are objectively evaluated. Teacher-friendly rubrics save time by streamlining the assessment process and providing consistent evaluation standards.

For both seniors and teachers, using time-saving rubrics can be highly beneficial. Time-saving rubrics are designed to minimize the time required for assessment while still providing valuable feedback. These rubrics focus on key elements of narrative writing and provide concise and clear evaluation criteria. By using time-saving rubrics , teachers can efficiently assess seniors’ writing without sacrificing the quality of feedback.

Overall, narrative writing rubrics offer a structured and objective approach to assessing seniors’ writing skills. Whether it’s using student-friendly rubrics for self-assessment or teacher-friendly rubrics for evaluation, these tools provide seniors with the guidance and feedback they need to enhance their narrative writing abilities.

Creative writing is a wonderful outlet for seniors to express themselves, share their stories, and ignite their imagination. Whether through journaling, engaging in creative projects, or exploring narrative writing, seniors can find joy and fulfillment in their writing practice.

Journaling provides a powerful tool for seniors to exercise their minds, promote memory preservation, and find stress relief. By starting with journaling prompts, seniors can easily dive into their writing practice and explore their thoughts and experiences.

Engaging in creative projects such as photo collaging, finger painting, and decorating flower pots allows seniors to tap into their creative muscles and express themselves through art. These activities provide opportunities for reminiscing, celebrating the seasons, and personalizing their living spaces.

Narrative writing opens up a whole new world for seniors to share their personal stories and explore their creative writing skills. With narrative writing prompts and the use of elements such as characters, settings, and problems, seniors can craft compelling narratives that captivate their readers.

Overall, creative writing offers endless possibilities for seniors to engage in a fulfilling and enriching writing practice. It provides a platform for self-expression, connection, and the preservation of their stories. So, whether it’s journaling, creative projects, or narrative writing, seniors can embark on a journey of creativity and self-discovery through their writing practice.

What are the benefits of journaling for seniors?

Journaling promotes memory preservation, exercises the mind, creates routine, boosts creativity, and provides stress relief for seniors.

How can journaling prompts help seniors?

Journaling prompts can help seniors get started with their writing practice, providing them with ideas and inspiration for what to write about.

What are some creative projects for seniors?

Creative projects for seniors include photo collaging, finger painting, decorating flower pots, and joining a book club.

How can photo collaging benefit seniors?

Photo collaging allows seniors to reminisce about memorable people and places in their lives and can spark conversations with others.

Why is finger painting a good creative project for seniors?

Finger painting is a fun and easy way for seniors to exercise their creative muscles, as it doesn’t require fine motor skills and can be forgiving.

How can seniors decorate flower pots creatively?

Seniors can personalize their flower pots with paint, decals, or even nail polish, celebrating spring and bringing the outdoors inside.

Why should seniors join a book club?

Joining a book club allows seniors to immerse themselves in the world of fiction, engage their creative energy, and enjoy audiobooks while walking or exercising.

What is narrative writing for seniors?

Narrative writing is the art of telling a story with a beginning, middle, and end, including elements such as characters, settings, problems, and solutions.

How can narrative writing prompts inspire seniors?

Narrative writing prompts can inspire seniors to write fictional stories about volcanoes, wishes, zoo adventures, as well as personal narratives about proud moments, heart-racing experiences, and memorable vacations.

How can narrative writing be assessed for seniors?

Rubrics are a helpful tool for evaluating seniors’ narrative writing. There are different types of rubrics, including student-friendly, teacher-friendly, and time-saving rubrics, which can be used for assessing narrative writing .

Source Links

  • https://www.ebenezercares.org/news-events/4-ways-to-help-seniors-spark-creativity
  • https://blakeford.com/the-art-of-journaling-for-seniors/
  • https://vibrantteaching.com/20-prompts-for-narrative-writing-that-spark-creativity/

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Creative Writing for Seniors: Unleash Your Imagination and Tell Your Tale!

creative writing for seniors

Table of Contents

Creative writing for seniors offers numerous benefits, both mentally and emotionally. As older adults engage in creative writing activities, they’re able to tap into their wealth of life experiences and wisdom, using them as a foundation for their storytelling. This allows seniors to express themselves in new ways, and even explore their thoughts and feelings more deeply.

According to a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, engaging in creative writing can have a positive impact on the cognitive abilities of older adults, contributing to improved memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, creative writing for seniors also fosters social connections, as they join writing groups or workshops, building a sense of community and reducing feelings of isolation.

To fully experience the benefits of creative writing for seniors, older adults should actively seek out opportunities to engage in writing activities. This can involve joining senior writing groups, enrolling in writing workshops for seniors, or participating in creative writing classes for older adults. By immersing themselves in the world of creative writing, seniors can unleash their potential, discover new passions, and enrich their lives.

Finding Inspiration: Creative Writing Prompts for Seniors

Writing prompts play a significant role in the creative writing process, particularly for seniors. They serve as a starting point, helping to ignite the creative spark and overcome writer’s block. Creative writing for seniors can greatly benefit from the use of writing prompts, as they provide a framework for older adults to channel their thoughts, memories, and emotions into a structured piece of writing.

Age-Appropriate Writing Prompts for Seniors

Selecting age-appropriate writing prompts is essential when engaging in creative writing for seniors. These prompts should resonate with the experiences, interests, and emotions of older adults. Here are some examples of writing prompts that cater to seniors:

  • Write a letter to your younger self, offering advice and insights you’ve gained over the years.
  • Describe a significant life event that shaped who you are today.
  • Create a fictional character based on someone from your past and weave a story around them.
  • Write a poem about a cherished memory or a place that holds special meaning for you.
  • Imagine you could travel back in time for one day. Where and when would you go, and what would you do?

By focusing on topics that are relevant and meaningful to seniors, these writing prompts can inspire older adults to explore their creativity and delve into the world of storytelling.

Tips for Creating Your Own Writing Prompts

In addition to using pre-existing writing prompts for seniors, older adults can also create their own prompts. Here are some tips to help seniors generate their own creative ideas for writing prompts:

  • Draw from personal experiences : Seniors have a wealth of life experiences to draw upon. Reflect on your own experiences and find inspiration in the events, people, and places that have shaped your life.
  • Embrace your emotions : Writing can be an emotional outlet. Consider your feelings and emotions, and use them as a starting point for your writing prompts.
  • Explore different formats : Don’t be afraid to experiment with different writing formats, such as poetry, memoir writing, or short stories. This variety can help keep the creative process fresh and engaging.
  • Read and research : Reading books, articles, or even watching movies can inspire new ideas for writing prompts. Look for themes, characters, or settings that resonate with you, and use them as a basis for your prompts.
  • Collaborate with others : Joining writing groups or workshops for seniors can be a great way to share ideas and brainstorm new prompts. Engaging with others can help generate a wealth of creative ideas that can be transformed into personalized writing prompts.

Preserving Memories: Memoir Writing Workshops for Seniors

Memoir writing is a form of creative writing that allows individuals to document their life stories, exploring personal experiences, emotions, and insights. This form of writing holds particular importance for seniors, as it provides an opportunity to preserve memories and create a lasting legacy for future generations. Creative writing for seniors often includes memoir writing, as it enables older adults to reflect on their lives and share their wisdom.

Memoir Writing Workshops Tailored to Seniors

Memoir writing workshops for seniors are specifically designed to cater to the unique needs and interests of older adults. These workshops focus on teaching seniors the essential elements of memoir writing, such as structure, narrative voice, and the use of vivid descriptions. By providing a supportive and engaging environment, these workshops help seniors to develop their writing skills and find their own unique storytelling voice.

Some key components of memoir writing workshops for seniors include:

  • Guided writing exercises and prompts that encourage seniors to explore their memories and experiences
  • Group discussions and feedback sessions that allow participants to learn from their peers and refine their writing
  • Expert instruction on the craft of memoir writing, including tips on creating compelling narratives and evoking emotions through words
  • Opportunities for seniors to share their work in a supportive and nurturing environment

How to Find and Join Memoir Writing Workshops for Seniors

For seniors interested in pursuing memoir writing, there are several avenues to find and join workshops tailored to their needs:

  • Local community centers and senior centers : Many community centers and senior centers offer creative writing workshops, including memoir writing, as part of their programs for older adults. Check the schedule and offerings at your local center.
  • Libraries : Public libraries often host writing workshops and classes, some of which may be specifically designed for seniors. Contact your local library or visit their website to inquire about upcoming workshops.
  • Online platforms : There are various online platforms, such as Meetup , where you can find and join local memoir writing workshops or even virtual workshops that cater to seniors.
  • Continuing education programs : Many colleges and universities offer continuing education programs that include creative writing courses, such as memoir writing workshops, for older adults.
  • Writing organizations and clubs : Local writing organizations and clubs may host workshops or provide resources for seniors interested in memoir writing. Reach out to these groups to inquire about opportunities.

By exploring these avenues, seniors can find memoir writing workshops that cater to their unique needs and interests. Participating in these workshops provides older adults with an opportunity to develop their creative writing skills, preserve their memories, and connect with others who share their passion for storytelling.

Express Yourself: Poetry Writing for Seniors

Creative writing for seniors offers numerous benefits, and poetry writing is an excellent way for older adults to express themselves, delve into emotions, and cultivate their creativity. Poetry writing allows seniors to explore various styles and formats, enabling them to find their unique voice and share their stories.

Benefits of Poetry Writing for Older Adults

Engaging in poetry writing offers several advantages for seniors, including:

  • Emotional expression : Poetry provides an outlet for seniors to explore and express their emotions, helping to improve mental health and emotional well-being.
  • Cognitive stimulation : Crafting poems encourages seniors to think critically, enhancing cognitive function and memory retention.
  • Social connection : Sharing poetry in writing groups or workshops promotes social interaction and camaraderie among older adults.
  • Enhanced creativity : Poetry writing stimulates the imagination, inspiring seniors to develop creative ideas and think outside the box.
  • Personal growth : Through the process of self-expression, seniors can gain insight into their feelings, experiences, and perspectives.

Tips and Techniques to Get Started with Poetry Writing

For seniors who are new to poetry writing, the following tips and techniques can help them begin their creative journey:

  • Read and analyze poetry : Reading various poets’ works exposes seniors to different styles, themes, and techniques, offering inspiration for their own writing. Analyzing poems can help seniors understand how to craft effective imagery, metaphors, and other poetic devices.
  • Experiment with forms and styles : There are numerous poetry forms and styles to explore, such as haiku, sonnet, free verse, and narrative poetry. Trying different forms can help seniors discover their preferred style and build confidence in their writing.
  • Use writing prompts : Creative writing prompts for seniors can ignite inspiration and provide a starting point for crafting poems. Prompts may include specific themes, emotions, or images to incorporate into the poem.
  • Practice regularly : Like any skill, poetry writing improves with practice. Encourage seniors to set aside dedicated time for writing and to experiment with different techniques.
  • Join a writing group or workshop : Participating in poetry writing workshops or joining writing groups for senior citizens provides a supportive environment to share work, receive feedback, and learn from others.

For additional resources and inspiration, seniors can visit the Poetry Foundation , which offers a wealth of information on various poets, styles, and techniques. By engaging in poetry writing, seniors can enjoy a creative outlet that promotes personal growth, emotional expression, and cognitive stimulation.

Building Community: Writing Groups for Senior Citizens

Creative writing for seniors is a fulfilling activity that fosters personal growth, cognitive stimulation, and social interaction. Writing groups for senior citizens provide an essential platform for older adults to connect, share their work, and receive valuable feedback. Participating in such groups encourages seniors to explore new creative ideas, hone their writing skills, and build lasting friendships.

Finding and Joining Local and Online Writing Groups

There are various ways for seniors to find and join writing groups tailored to their needs and interests:

  • Community centers : Local community centers often host writing groups for older adults, providing a space for seniors to meet and share their work in person.
  • Libraries : Public libraries may offer writing workshops or host writing clubs for seniors, fostering a supportive environment for older adults to develop their writing skills.
  • Online platforms : Websites like Meetup allow seniors to search for local and online writing groups catering to their interests and preferences.
  • Social media : Joining Facebook groups or following relevant hashtags on Twitter can help seniors connect with like-minded individuals and discover online writing communities.

Tips for Creating Your Own Writing Group for Older Adults

If seniors cannot find a suitable writing group in their area or online, they can consider starting their own group. The following tips can help older adults create a successful and supportive writing group:

  • Define the group’s focus : Determine the primary focus of the writing group, such as poetry writing, memoir writing, or creative writing for older adults in general. This will help attract members with similar interests and goals.
  • Establish a meeting schedule : Decide on a regular meeting schedule, whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Consistent meetings help maintain momentum and encourage active participation.
  • Set group guidelines : Create clear guidelines for group members, including expectations for providing constructive feedback, respecting diverse perspectives, and maintaining a supportive atmosphere.
  • Promote the group : Advertise the writing group through local community centers, libraries, social media, and online platforms to attract interested seniors.
  • Choose a meeting format : Determine whether the group will meet in person or online. If meeting online, familiarize yourself with user-friendly video conferencing tools, such as Zoom or Skype, to facilitate virtual meetings.
  • Incorporate writing exercises and prompts : Include writing exercises for older adults and creative writing prompts for seniors to stimulate creativity and encourage group members to explore new topics and styles.

Creating a writing group for senior citizens can provide a welcoming and supportive environment for older adults to engage in creative writing activities, share their work, and connect with like-minded individuals. By following these tips, seniors can create a successful writing group that fosters personal growth, social interaction, and the continued development of their writing skills.

Continuing Education: Creative Writing Classes for Older Adults

Creative writing for seniors offers an excellent opportunity for older adults to express themselves, stimulate their minds, and connect with like-minded individuals. Creative writing classes designed specifically for older adults cater to their unique needs and interests, providing a supportive environment for learning and growth.

Types of Creative Writing Classes Available

A variety of creative writing classes are available to suit the preferences of older adults:

  • Online classes : Seniors can take advantage of online creative writing courses that allow them to learn at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes. These courses often feature video lectures, writing exercises, and peer feedback opportunities.
  • In-person classes : In-person classes provide seniors with a more interactive learning experience, allowing them to engage with instructors and fellow students directly. These classes are typically held at community centers, libraries, and educational institutions.
  • Workshops : Creative writing workshops for seniors offer a more focused and intensive learning experience. These workshops may center around specific writing genres, techniques, or creative ideas, enabling seniors to hone their skills in a particular area.
  • Writing groups : Senior writing groups provide a more informal learning environment, where older adults can share their work, exchange feedback, and explore new writing projects together.

How to Find and Enroll in Creative Writing Classes

Finding and enrolling in creative writing classes for older adults can be a straightforward process by following these steps:

  • Search online : Websites such as Coursera and edX offer a range of online creative writing courses tailored to various skill levels and interests.
  • Visit local community centers and libraries : Community centers and libraries often host in-person creative writing classes and workshops for seniors. Check their websites or visit in person for information on upcoming courses.
  • Explore continuing education programs : Many colleges and universities offer continuing education programs featuring creative writing classes for older adults. These institutions may provide both online and in-person options, catering to diverse learning preferences.
  • Contact senior centers : Senior centers often organize creative writing activities and classes for their members. Reach out to local senior centers to inquire about any available opportunities.
  • Browse social media and online forums : Social media platforms and online forums can be valuable resources for discovering creative writing classes, workshops, and groups tailored to the interests and needs of older adults.

Once a suitable creative writing class is identified, seniors can enroll by following the specific registration process outlined by the course provider. This may involve completing an online form, registering in person, or contacting the course organizer directly. By participating in creative writing classes for older adults, seniors can continue their education, explore new creative ideas, and foster meaningful connections with fellow writers.

Engaging the Mind: Writing Exercises and Storytelling Workshops for Seniors

Creative writing for seniors, particularly writing exercises and storytelling workshops, can provide significant cognitive health benefits. Engaging in these activities helps seniors maintain mental sharpness, stimulate memory, and enhance communication skills. By participating in writing exercises and storytelling, older adults can tap into their creativity, explore new ideas, and foster social connections.

Examples of Writing Exercises for Older Adults

Here are some writing exercises that can help seniors strengthen their creative writing skills:

  • Freewriting : Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write continuously without worrying about grammar, spelling, or coherence. This exercise encourages seniors to express their thoughts without inhibition.
  • Writing prompts : Use prompts to inspire storytelling or exploration of specific topics. For example, “Write about a memorable event from your childhood” or “Describe your favorite place in nature.”
  • Character development : Create a character profile, including physical appearance, background, and personality traits. This exercise helps seniors develop well-rounded characters for their stories.
  • Storytelling from photographs : Select a photograph and write a story based on the image. This can ignite creative ideas and encourage seniors to interpret visual cues.
  • Memoir writing : Reflect on personal experiences and write short memoirs that capture significant moments in life. This exercise helps older adults preserve their memories and share their life stories.

Overview of Storytelling Workshops for Seniors and How to Find Them

Storytelling workshops for seniors provide an engaging and supportive environment for older adults to learn the art of storytelling, develop their narrative skills, and connect with others who share their interests. These workshops often involve group exercises, storytelling techniques, and constructive feedback from facilitators and fellow participants.

To find storytelling workshops for seniors, consider the following resources:

  • Local libraries and community centers : Many libraries and community centers offer storytelling workshops for seniors as part of their programming. Check their websites or visit in person to inquire about upcoming workshops.
  • Senior centers : Senior centers often host various creative writing workshops, including storytelling, for their members. Contact local senior centers for information on their programs.
  • Continuing education programs : Colleges and universities may offer storytelling workshops for seniors as part of their continuing education programs. Explore their course catalogs or websites for more information.
  • Online platforms : Websites like Meetup can help seniors find local storytelling workshops and writing groups in their communities.

Participating in writing exercises and storytelling workshops for seniors can have a profound impact on older adults’ cognitive health and overall well-being. By engaging in these activities, seniors can sharpen their minds, foster connections, and unleash their creative potential.

Conclusion: Bringing It All Together

Throughout this exploration of creative writing for seniors, we’ve covered numerous aspects, including writing prompts, workshops, storytelling, memoir writing, poetry writing, writing exercises, and writing groups. Each of these facets provides unique opportunities for seniors to engage in creative expression, connect with others, and maintain cognitive health.

Older adults are encouraged to pursue creative ideas and try various writing projects and activities. Whether it’s participating in writing workshops, joining local writing groups, or tackling writing exercises, seniors can uncover new passions and learn valuable skills. By engaging in creative writing for seniors, older adults can continue to grow, explore, and express themselves.

The Lifelong Benefits of Engaging in Creative Writing for Seniors

Creative writing for seniors offers numerous lifelong benefits, such as:

  • Cognitive health : Regular engagement in creative writing activities can help seniors maintain mental sharpness and memory function.
  • Emotional well-being : Writing can serve as a therapeutic outlet, allowing seniors to process emotions, cope with stress, and increase self-awareness.
  • Social connection : Writing groups and workshops provide opportunities for seniors to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering friendships and a sense of community.
  • Legacy building : Memoir writing, storytelling, and poetry writing allow seniors to share their life experiences, wisdom, and creativity with future generations.
  • Continued learning : Creative writing for older adults encourages lifelong learning and personal growth, keeping seniors intellectually engaged and curious.

In conclusion, engaging in creative writing for seniors offers an array of benefits, from cognitive health to emotional well-being and social connection. By exploring various writing projects and activities, older adults can continue to learn, grow, and express themselves creatively. Seniors are encouraged to harness their creative ideas and immerse themselves in the world of creative writing, ultimately reaping the lifelong rewards this rich and diverse form of expression has to offer.

What are some creative writing prompts for seniors?

Creative writing prompts for seniors can include topics related to life experiences, family history, or imaginative scenarios. Examples include:

  • Write a letter to your younger self, offering advice and wisdom.
  • Describe a memorable event from your childhood.
  • Imagine you could travel to any time and place. Where would you go and why?
  • Write a short story inspired by a family heirloom or photograph.

How can seniors get involved in creative writing?

Seniors can get involved in creative writing by attending workshops, joining writing groups, taking online courses, or simply setting aside time for regular writing practice. They can also explore various writing genres, such as memoir writing, poetry, or storytelling.

Are there writing workshops specifically for seniors?

Yes, there are writing workshops specifically designed for seniors. These workshops may focus on memoir writing, poetry, storytelling, or other creative writing genres. Seniors can find local workshops through community centers, senior centers, or libraries, or explore online options through platforms like Coursera or edX.

What are some storytelling ideas for seniors?

Storytelling ideas for seniors can involve recounting personal experiences, family history, or exploring fictional narratives. Some ideas include:

  • Share a story about a family tradition or a unique cultural practice.
  • Create a fictional tale inspired by a historical event or figure.
  • Tell a story about a meaningful friendship or relationship.

How can seniors benefit from creative writing?

Seniors can benefit from creative writing in various ways, including cognitive health maintenance, emotional well-being, social connection, legacy building, and continued learning. Engaging in creative writing activities helps seniors stay mentally sharp, process emotions, connect with others, and share their wisdom and experiences.

Can older adults learn creative writing?

Yes, older adults can learn creative writing through workshops, classes, online courses, or self-guided practice. Creative writing is a lifelong skill that can be learned and enjoyed at any age.

What are some memoir writing tips for seniors?

Memoir writing tips for seniors include:

  • Begin with a specific focus or theme.
  • Create a timeline of significant events.
  • Use vivid details and sensory descriptions.
  • Include dialogue to bring scenes to life.
  • Be honest and open about emotions and experiences.

Are there writing groups for senior citizens?

Yes, there are writing groups for senior citizens that provide a supportive environment for older adults to share their work, receive feedback, and connect with others. Seniors can find local writing groups through community centers, senior centers, or libraries, or join online communities through social media or writing websites.

How can creative writing help seniors with cognitive function?

Creative writing helps seniors with cognitive function by stimulating the brain, improving memory, and encouraging critical thinking. Regular engagement in creative writing activities promotes mental flexibility, problem-solving skills, and cognitive resilience.

How can seniors share their creative writing with others?

Seniors can share their creative writing with others by participating in writing groups, reading their work at open mic events, submitting pieces to literary journals or contests, or self-publishing their work. They can also share their writing online through blogs, social media, or writing communities.

  • creative writing
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  • memoir writing
  • older adults
  • poetry writing
  • senior citizen writing
  • senior writing
  • storytelling
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  • writing groups
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Best Memoir Prompts for Seniors

Best Memoir Prompts for Seniors

Ignite memories and unleash creativity with engaging memoir writing prompts for seniors. Start capturing your life story today!

creative writing prompts for seniors

The Power of Memoirs

Memoirs hold a special place in the world of literature, allowing individuals to preserve their memories and share their unique experiences with others. For seniors, engaging in memoir writing can be a powerful way to reflect on their lives and leave a lasting legacy.

Preserving Memories Through Writing

Writing memoirs provides seniors with a means to capture and preserve their most cherished memories. Through the act of writing, they can revisit significant moments, relive emotions, and document the details that make their stories come alive. By putting their memories into words, seniors can ensure that their life stories are passed down to future generations, allowing their loved ones to gain a deeper understanding of their personal history.

Memoir writing provides an opportunity for seniors to reflect on their lives and connect with their past selves. As they delve into their memories, they may uncover forgotten anecdotes, rediscover lost passions, or gain new insights into their life journey. Writing can be a cathartic process, allowing seniors to express their thoughts, emotions, and perspectives in a meaningful way.

creative writing prompts for seniors

Benefits of Memoir Writing for Seniors

Engaging in memoir writing offers numerous benefits for seniors beyond the act of preserving memories. Here are some key advantages:

  • Self-Reflection and Personal Growth: Writing a memoir encourages seniors to reflect on their experiences, which can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself. It provides an opportunity to make sense of the past, find closure, and gain new perspectives.
  • Enhancing Cognitive Function: Memoir writing exercises the brain, promoting mental agility and keeping the mind active. It stimulates memory recall, language skills, and creative thinking, which can be particularly beneficial for seniors.
  • Emotional Well-being: The process of writing can be therapeutic, allowing seniors to process and express their emotions. It can provide a sense of accomplishment, boost self-esteem, and contribute to overall emotional well-being.
  • Connecting with Others: Memoirs have the power to connect generations. Sharing personal stories with loved ones and future generations fosters deeper connections and understanding within families. It can also serve as a valuable resource for future researchers and historians.

To get started on their memoir writing journey, seniors can explore a variety of engaging memoir writing prompts. These prompts serve as catalysts for memories and stories that may have otherwise remained untold. In the next section, we will delve into some thought-provoking memoir writing prompts that can inspire seniors to begin their writing journey. For a comprehensive list of memoir prompts for seniors, visit their article on memoir prompts for elderly .

Memoir writing is a powerful tool for seniors to reflect on their lives, preserve their memories, and leave a lasting legacy. The process of writing and sharing their stories can be immensely rewarding, both personally and for future generations.

Getting Started with Memoir Writing

Before diving into the world of memoir writing, it's important for seniors to establish a solid foundation. This includes creating an inspiring writing space and setting realistic goals that will help guide their writing journey.

Creating an Inspiring Writing Space

Having a dedicated writing space can greatly enhance the memoir writing experience for seniors. Here are a few tips to create an inspiring environment:

  • Find a quiet and comfortable area: Choose a space in your home where you can write without distractions. It could be a cozy corner, a home office, or even a peaceful outdoor spot.
  • Personalize the space: Surround yourself with items that bring joy and inspiration, such as photographs, souvenirs, or meaningful objects. These can serve as prompts for memories and help ignite your storytelling.
  • Gather writing materials: Ensure you have all the necessary writing materials at hand. This may include pens, notebooks, a computer, or a tablet. Use tools that feel comfortable and facilitate your writing process.

Remember, the goal is to create a space that sparks creativity and allows you to delve into your memories with ease. 

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals is essential to make progress in your memoir writing journey. Here are a few tips to help you establish achievable objectives:

  • Define your purpose: Determine why you want to write a memoir. Is it to preserve family history, share life lessons, or simply capture your memories? Knowing your purpose will help you stay motivated and focused.
  • Break it down: Instead of overwhelming yourself with the task of writing an entire memoir at once, break it down into smaller, manageable chunks. Set specific goals for each writing session, such as writing a certain number of pages or capturing a particular memory.
  • Establish a writing schedule: Consistency is key when it comes to memoir writing. Set aside dedicated time for writing regularly. Whether it's daily, weekly, or bi-weekly, find a schedule that works best for you and stick to it.

By setting realistic goals, you can make steady progress in your memoir writing journey while avoiding overwhelm. Remember, the process is as important as the result, so enjoy the journey and embrace the memories you are capturing.

As you embark on your memoir writing adventure, it's important to remember that your story matters. Your unique experiences and perspective hold immense value not just for yourself, but also for future generations. So, create an inspiring writing space, set realistic goals, and let your memories flow onto the pages as you begin to weave your narrative.

creative writing prompts for seniors

Engaging Memoir Writing Prompts for Seniors

Memoir writing is a wonderful way for seniors to reflect on their lives and share their unique stories. To help seniors ignite their memories and embark on their memoir-writing journey, we've compiled a list of engaging writing prompts. These prompts cover a range of topics, including childhood memories, significant life events, relationships and friendships, lessons learned, and travel experiences.

Childhood Memories

  • Describe your childhood home and the neighborhood you grew up in. What are some of your fondest memories from that time?
  • Share a story about a memorable family tradition or holiday celebration from your childhood.
  • Reflect on your favorite hobbies or activities as a child. How did they shape your interests and personality?

Significant Life Events

  • Write about a major life decision you made and the impact it had on your life.
  • Describe a challenging experience you faced and how you overcame it. What did you learn from that experience?
  • Share a story about a moment that changed your perspective or outlook on life.

Relationships and Friendships

  • Write about a close friendship that has had a significant impact on your life. What qualities do you value in a friend?
  • Reflect on a romantic relationship that played an important role in shaping who you are today. What lessons did you learn from that relationship?
  • Share a story about a mentor or role model who has had a positive influence on your life.

Lessons Learned

  • Reflect on a valuable life lesson you learned from a difficult experience. How did that lesson shape your future actions and decisions?
  • Write about a mistake or failure that taught you an important lesson. How did you grow from that experience?
  • Share a piece of advice or wisdom that you would pass on to future generations.

Travel Experiences

  • Describe a memorable travel adventure you had. What made it unforgettable?
  • Reflect on a trip that exposed you to a different culture or way of life. How did it broaden your perspective?
  • Write about a place you've always wanted to visit and why it holds significance for you.

By exploring these memoir writing prompts, seniors can unlock a treasure trove of memories and stories. Remember to take your time, reflect, and write from the heart. Capturing these moments and experiences will not only preserve your personal history but also provide a legacy for future generations to cherish.

Tips for Effective Memoir Writing

Writing a compelling memoir involves more than just recording memories. To create a memoir that captivates readers, consider the following tips:

Be Authentic and Honest

The foundation of a powerful memoir lies in authenticity and honesty. Embrace your unique voice and share your experiences with sincerity. Readers are drawn to stories that feel genuine. Don't shy away from expressing your thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities. By being authentic, you invite readers to connect with your story on a deeper level.

Use Vivid Descriptions

Transport your readers into your world by incorporating vivid descriptions. Paint a picture with words, engaging the senses to bring your memories to life. Describe the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures that made your experiences memorable. By using descriptive language, you create a rich and immersive reading experience that allows your audience to fully visualize your story.

Show, Don't Tell

Instead of simply telling your readers what happened, show them through vivid scenes and anecdotes. Showcasing the events, conversations, and emotions through storytelling adds depth and engages the reader's imagination. Use dialogue, action, and sensory details to recreate moments from your life, making your memoir more engaging and captivating.

Reflect and Find Meaning

A memoir is not just a chronological retelling of events; it's an opportunity to reflect on the significance and meaning of those experiences. Take time to ponder the lessons learned, personal growth, and insights gained from your memories. Share your reflections and the wisdom you've acquired along the way. By infusing your memoir with introspection and meaning, you create a narrative that resonates with readers and invites them to contemplate their own lives.

Remember, writing a memoir is a personal journey, and there are no right or wrong answers. Embrace your unique perspective and let your voice shine through. By incorporating authenticity, vivid descriptions, storytelling techniques, and reflection, you can create a memoir that not only preserves your memories but also inspires and captivates your readers.

Sharing and Preserving Your Memoirs

Once you have poured your heart and memories into your memoir, it's time to consider how you can share and preserve your work. The stories you have crafted deserve to be cherished and cherished by your loved ones and future generations. Here are some ways you can share and preserve your memoirs:

Sharing Your Memoirs with Loved Ones

One of the most meaningful ways to share your memoirs is by sharing them with your loved ones. Your stories hold a wealth of family history and personal experiences that can bring joy and connection to those around you. Consider gathering your family members for a reading or sharing session where you can recount your memories and engage in meaningful conversations.

In addition to sharing in person, you may also choose to distribute physical copies of your memoirs to your family members. This can be in the form of a printed book or a handwritten journal. Alternatively, you can also share your memoirs digitally by sending electronic copies or uploading them to a shared family platform.

Publishing and Self-Publishing Options

If you feel that your memoirs have a broader audience beyond your immediate circle, you may consider publishing your work. Publishing your memoir can allow your stories to reach a wider audience and inspire others. There are various publishing options available, including traditional publishing and self-publishing.

Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to publishing houses for consideration. If accepted, the publisher will handle the editing, design, printing, and distribution processes. Self-publishing, on the other hand, gives you more control over the entire publishing process. You can choose to work with self-publishing platforms that offer services like editing, cover design, and distribution or take on the tasks yourself.

Before deciding on a publishing route, it's important to research and consider the pros and cons of each option. Keep in mind that publishing can involve financial investments, so it's essential to evaluate your goals and resources.

Digitizing and Preserving Your Work

Preserving your memoirs in a digital format ensures that they can withstand the test of time and be easily accessible for future generations. Consider digitizing your written memoirs by scanning them and storing them in a secure digital format. This way, even if the physical copies deteriorate over time, the digital versions will remain intact.

Additionally, you may choose to explore online platforms or websites where you can publish your memoirs digitally. This allows you to reach a global audience and provide a lasting digital legacy.

When digitizing your memoirs, it's important to keep backups in multiple locations to prevent the loss of your cherished stories. Consider utilizing cloud storage services or external hard drives to ensure the longevity and accessibility of your digital memoirs.

By sharing and preserving your memoirs, you are not only leaving a legacy for your loved ones but also contributing to the collective tapestry of human experiences. Whether it's through sharing with family, exploring publishing options, or digitizing your work, your memoirs have the power to inspire and connect generations to come.

What if I can't remember all the details of a memory?

Don't worry if you can't remember every single detail of a memory. The most important thing is to write down what you do remember and let your imagination fill in the gaps. You can also ask family members or friends who were there to help jog your memory.

How long should my memoir be?

The length of your memoir is entirely up to you. It can be as short or as long as you want it to be. Some people prefer to write short vignettes, while others write lengthy autobiographies. Just focus on telling your story in a way that feels authentic to you.

Do I have to follow the prompts exactly?

No, the prompts are simply meant to inspire you. If there's a different memory or experience that you'd rather write about, feel free to do so. The prompts are just a starting point.

What if I don't consider myself a good writer?

Don't worry about being a "good" writer. Your memoir is for yourself and your loved ones, not for publication. Just focus on telling your story in your own voice and style.

Can I include photos or other memorabilia in my memoir?

Absolutely! Including photos or other mementos can help bring your memories to life on the page. Just be sure to scan or make copies of any irreplaceable items so that you don't risk losing them.

Should I share my memoir with anyone else?

That's entirely up to you. Some people choose to share their memoirs with family members or close friends, while others prefer to keep them private. Whatever you decide, remember that writing your memoir is ultimately about capturing your memories and experiences for yourself.

Writing a memoir can be a rewarding experience for seniors. It allows you to reflect on your life and the experiences that have shaped you into the person you are today. Memoir prompts can help you get started and unlock the memories that are buried deep within your mind. So why not give it a try? You never know what stories you might uncover. Happy writing!

https://theglebe.org/blog/memoir

https://thememoirnetwork.com/memoir-writing-tips-for-older-people

https://blog.thegoodmangroup.com/memoir-writing-cognitive-fitness

https://www.ioaging.org/memoir-writing-prompts-for-older-adults

https://www.meadowridge.com/how-to-write-a-memoir

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Journal Prompts for Seniors

Journaling isn’t just for writers and students. The simple act of writing can help seniors embrace their creativity, share significant memories, and keep their minds healthy and active. Whether you prefer a pencil and paper, a computer, or even a typewriter, writing in a journal is a great way to combat memory loss. However, if you aren’t accustomed to writing, you may not know where to start! Journaling can take whatever form you like, but if you need some guidance to get started or you’re suffering from writer’s block, check out the journal prompts for seniors below for inspiration.

DAILY ROUTINE

  • What did you do today?
  • What is your favorite way to spend the day?
  • What is your daily routine?
  • What are three things you can’t go without?
  • What are your favorite things to wear?
  • What would your perfect day entail?
  • When do you feel happiest?
  • What current event or issue do you feel very strongly about?
  • What’s on your mind?
  • What period of your life do you look back upon most fondly?
  • Who have been the most important people in your life?
  • Describe a time when someone was unexpectedly kind to you.
  • Describe a random act of kindness you did for someone else.
  • Finish this thought:  Nobody knows that I . . .
  • What is the biggest lie you have ever told?
  • Describe your first love (this could be a person, a place, a thing, etc).
  • Have you ever done something that you thought you couldn’t?
  • What have you done for love?
  • Find an old photograph of yourself. Write about the memories it inspires.
  • What recurring dreams and nightmares have you had?
  • When in your life did you feel most proud?
  • Of all the places you have lived, which most felt like home?
  • What would you tell your 16-year-old self?
  • What would you like to tell your future self?
  • Do you have any regrets?
  • How have you learned from your biggest mistakes?
  • What do you love most about life?
  • What advice would you give to your children and grandchildren?
  • What matters most in life?
  • What would your childhood self think of your life thus far?
  • How did your experience of adulthood differ from your expectations?
  • What is the best advice you ever received?

FUN & RANDOM

  • List 30 things that make you smile.
  • What do you think your body would say if it could talk?
  • What scares you?
  • What places have you most enjoyed visiting?
  • What is your favorite book/movie/song? Why?
  • What are your pet peeves?
  • Do you like your name? Has it ever changed? What is your favorite name?
  • Describe your favorite time of year: the scents, the weather, the activities . . .

Use these journal prompts for seniors for inspiration, but feel free to create your own prompts as well. Writing can feel like a form of personal therapy, a way to share your story or reflect on your life. You might wish to share your writing with others, or you could keep your journal to yourself. Either way, the act of journaling will be beneficial to you. Let the words flow, express your opinions and emotions, and repeat as often as you like.

Are you looking for an assisted living community in Tennessee? If so, be sure to check out  Hearthside Senior Living Place , located in Bartlett, Tennessee. We would be happy to  schedule a tour  for you so that you can explore the community, meet some of the residents, and ask any questions you might have. For more information, please call 901-854-6590. We look forward to meeting you!

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Home » Blog » 140 Creative Writing Prompts For Adults

140 Creative Writing Prompts For Adults

creative writing prompts for seniors

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Learning how to become a better writer includes knowing how to come up with a solid idea. With so many elements to consider when starting your novel, the plot itself may begin to slip away from you. Use these creative writing prompts for adults to get you started on the right path to a successful story and suffer from writer’s block for the last time. .

This list of writing prompts for adults can be taken and used in any way you want. Details can be changed and characters can be added or removed.

They are meant to be a fun way to get your creativity flowing and your next story developing. For even more writing ideas, check out the  writing prompt generator . Here, you will find 500+ prompts of all kinds that will give you some ideas.  Take control of that blank page and create something awesome. 

[table id=25 /]

Dramatic Writing Prompts for Adults

Nothing beats some good old-fashioned drama once in a while. You can turn these writing prompts into a dramatic love story , an exciting short story, or morph them into a different genre. How you use them is up to you.

For a novel that is specifically romance, we have created an exclusive list of exciting and genre-bending romance writing prompts .

  • A young boy discovers that he is the only adopted child among his four siblings. Feeling confused and betrayed, he runs away to find his birth parents. After two months on the road, he runs out of money and still hasn’t found them. Does he go home? Or does he continue his quest?
  • Two couples are fueding and haven’t spoken in years. It is discovered that their two children have become best friends at school, and they want a playdate. Will this increase tension between them or lead to reconciliation?
  • Identical twins are attending the same college. They switch places and take each other’s classes depending on strengths and weaknesses. They’ve gotten away with it for two years until their observant professor of a father is transferred to the school they attend.
  • Two childhood best friends stopped talking after a huge fight in high school. Five years later, they find themselves sitting next to each other on the same 16-hour international flight.
  • Write about a passionate romance that crosses religions.
  • He’s only been in office for a year. He is already being tempted by a corrupt group of criminals who want him to sabotage a series of public safety projects in exchange for funding his entire reelection campaign.
  • Your main character is being offered a promotion from the high school principal to the district director. Sadly, she knows her replacement will cut funding to all of the art programs. How does she manage the situation?
  • A high profile general learns that the opposing army will surrender if he hands himself over. Will he prioritize his own safety, or sacrifice himself for his country?
  • Write about a successful businesswoman who has built herself from the ground up. The business is suddenly threatened by the son of a rich local contractor who started a similar business out of boredom.
  • A successful lawyer knows that his client is guilty of the murder for which he has been charged. He is a good liar and could easily win the case. The case is getting constant media coverage and would guarantee him making partner at his firm.
  • Your main character has lived a sheltered, isolated life. When their delusional and overbearing father dies. They are thrown into the real world and unsure of how to cope.
  • The doorbell rings and your character answers it – finding nothing but an envelope with nothing on it. They open it and follow the instructions to attend a secret underground event. Afterward, they become a part of a huge resistance that the rest of the world knows nothing about.
  • After a family member’s funeral, you arrive home to a stranger on your doorstep claiming the person is not really dead. The funeral was open-casket.
  • It is your character’s wedding day. While the vows are being said, someone from the crowd yells “I object!”
  • A huge storm has stopped traffic. Your character is stuck in the car with someone for an unknown amount of time. The person chooses this moment to confess their undying love. The feeling is not mutual.
  • Your character finds an old, disposable camera on the ground. Feeling, they get the photos developed. What they see tells an unsettling story.
  • Two old friends are reminiscing on a prominent and life-changing event. They have very different memories from that day.
  • Your main character is a world-traveling nature photographer. She stumbles upon a small tribe of indigenous people who have found the cure for all cancer in a small local plant.
  • A young man has been homeschooled all his life and is ready to start college. An attack on his small home town has him being drafted into the army. He is away from home for the first time ever and terrified. However, he becomes a key strategist due to his unique perspective and undiscovered scientific talents.
  • A middle-aged man is tired of his career in a corporate office. He takes all his vacation and sick days at once for an excursion in the Appalachian Mountains. Everything is fine until a blizzard hits.
  • A shy and reserved web designer thinks she has found the man of her dreams online. She is actually being catfished by a competing company who wants to get information from her.
  • A man and women work for two neighboring, rival fast food companies. They always take their lunch breaks together on the bench right in the middle of the two.
  • An ongoing murder investigation takes an unexpected turn when it is discovered that a prolific group of corrupted police officers were behind the whole thing.
  • A television star is renowned and respected for his “method” acting. He only interviews or appears on TV in character. But, this is because he doesn’t have a personality outside of his three most famous characters.
  • A professional gymnast is under fire for her supposed use of performance-enhancing steroids. She leaked the story herself to draw attention away from the fact that she is the leader of a high-profile drug ring.
  • An older couple on the brink of retirement keeps their life savings in the pages of the books in their home. They are just about to start looking for a retirement home to live in when a fire destroys their house and their cash.

Tips for Writing Drama

  • Drama is usually character driven , so make use of both your round and flat characters .
  • Introduce the conflict right away and keep it prominent. A drama will thrive off conflict.
  • Don’t let the resolution come easily.
  • Don’t be afraid to kill characters and write difficult situations.
  • Always show, don’t tell.

Supernatural Writing Prompts for Adults

Supernatural stories are popular. The world is in love with vampires. Write something interesting and unique enough, you might be writing their next favorite book. Use these supernatural story starters for your basic premise. 

  • On her 16th birthday, your main character miraculously survives a deadly car crash without a scratch. Later that week, she watches as a small scratch heals and disappears right before her eyes. Where did this new power come from and what will she do with it?
  • There is an elite society of high education that wants to test a new drug. They give it to highly gifted students, and it allows them to stay awake for 48 hours and record everything they see, heard, and feel in that time. Unfortunately, some unexpected side effects set in two weeks later.
  • A middle-aged man is the only one in his famous and high-profile family without a superpower. The local police rely on his super-powered family to help them catch and fight crime. However, the powers are failing them during a specific investigation. Your protagonists “normal” perspective might just save the day.
  • Your main character suffers a terrible concussion. After recovering, they cannot control the vivid nightmares about the accident. However, they can also take images from their mind and project them into the real world. Doctors think they are crazy and keep them heavily sedated.
  • Write about a world where technology has given animals the ability to speak.

Tips for Writing Supernatural Stories

  • Setting the story in the real world will make your supernatural species more believable.
  • Create the origins of your species and supernatural characters.
  • Create the physical limitations for your species and beings.
  • Avoid the cliches of the genre.
  • Understand your reasons for using supernatural creatures. You shouldn’t be writing them in simply due to their popularity.

Thriller Writing Prompts for Adults

Thrillers can come in many forms and can be incorporated with many genres. Regardless of the details though, they are always meant to excite. Suspense and tension are crucial – it’s always more fun when you don’t know. Writing a good thriller requires a strong set of writing skills. These prompts will give you a good base. If you think you need to improve, try some writing exercises.

If your thriller can get hearts racing, you’ve done a good job.

  • The body of your main character’s best friend is dumped on their doorstep. They make it their mission to find out who is responsible, even if it means crossing some lines and breaking some laws.
  • A murderer is on the loose in your character’s hometown. For 10 weeks they have killed one person on the same day at the same time. Your main character is the next victim. They are abducted exactly three days before the planned kill time.
  • Strange things start happening around town. Your main character decides to find out for themselves what is going on. They do learn the truth, but now they aren’t allowed to leave.
  • Your character suffers from a condition that causes seemingly random blackouts for varying amounts of time. The only thing they ever remember before these episodes is a yellow car with a dent on the side. One day, that car is parked outside their house. This time, there is no blackout.
  • Your main character and their friends take an unsolicited mini-vacation to an off-limits island off the coast of their seaside town. Shortly after arrival, they discover the islands inhabitants and the reason why it was off limits.
  • Your protagonist is in intensive therapy due to extremely vivid nightmares detailing someone’s gruesome death. Many have said it’s just their twisted imagination, but this new therapist seems to think it’s much more than that.
  • You are legally allowed to kill someone one time in your life. You must fill out a series of paperwork, and your intended victim will be given notice of your plan.
  • A brilliant serial killer has been getting away with murder for decades. His only weakness is his acute inability to tell a lie. He is finally caught and tried for all murders. Write about how he still manages to walk free, with no charges laid.
  • Your character is a host at a restaurant. A couple comes in and says they have a reservation. You look it up in the system and find that the reservation was booked 40 years ago.

Tips for Writing a Thriller

  • Have a story that suits a thriller. This usually involves the protagonist falling victim to someone else and being caught in impossible situations.
  • Different points of view can add a lot of value to a thriller. It gives several perspectives and allows the reader into the heads of many characters.
  • Put action as close to the beginning as possible.
  • Don’t be afraid to make your characters miserable.

Thriller Book Writing Template

Squibler has a book writing template that was created specifically for writing a thriller:

thriller novel template

It will walk you through each section of a typical thriller. It includes the basics of a thriller structure, without stifling your creativity. The guidelines are easy to understand, but loose enough that you can insert the details of your story with ease.

Horror Writing Prompts for Adults

The horror genre has always had a cult-like following. Several fictional killers have become household names. Some horror fans will spend their whole lives chasing the adrenaline that comes with a good scare.

If you’re learning how to become a better writer in order to scare your readers, these writing prompts will get you started. A book writing template may be helpful in creating a true horror as setting the stage properly is crucial.

  • It’s Halloween night and a group of rowdy teenagers break into an infamously haunted house in their town. They soon discover it is not the ghosts they have to fear, but the madman who lives upstairs is poisoning them with hallucinogenic gas.
  • There is a disease outbreak at a school. It appears at first to be chicken pox but it is actually a virus that is causing violent outbreaks in the children who begin to terrorize the town.
  • Your main character attends a meditation retreat. It turns out to be a recruiting process for an extremist cult that convinces members to commit dangerous acts of terror. Your protagonist is the only one in the room who is immune.
  • So overcome by his nightmares, your main character attacks anyone who comes near him. He cannot distinguish between loved ones and the monsters in his head.
  • A young man has to dive 300 feet into the ocean to rescue his girlfriend caught in a broken submarine. He must cross through a genetically modified shark breeding ground.
  • An old time capsule is about to be opened and the whole town is present for the celebration. When opened, the only thing found inside is a detached human hand with a threatening note in the grasp. The note is written in your character’s handwriting but dated 50 years before they were even born.

Master horror writer Stephen King reveals some of his thought process: “So where do the ideas—the salable ideas—come from? They come from my nightmares. Not the night-time variety, as a rule, but the ones that hide just beyond the doorway that separates the conscious from the unconscious.”

Horror doesn’t always have to be fantastical and dreamy in nature. Sometimes horror exists in the real world, within people.

Tips for Writing Horror

  • Don’t be afraid to give that gruesome, bloody description.
  • Aim to create extreme emotions.
  • Make sure the readers care about your characters. This will make their horrible situations more impactful.
  • Consider what scares you the most. Keep this in mind when writing.
  • Set the stakes high.
  • Some comic relief or brief periods of peace are okay – necessary even. It can help build suspense.

Crime and Mystery Writing Prompts for Adults

Stories of crime and mystery have been told for ages. There are some classic crime dramas that will never get old. Many non-fiction books have been written on this topic as well. 

Creating a proper mystery takes time and much planning. When done correctly though, it makes for a most memorable story.

  • Your main character discovers another women’s clothes tucked in the back of her boyfriends closet. She plans an elaborate fishing trip to get him far away for a weekend so she can teach him a lesson.
  • A new serial killer is on the loose, killing one person every other day within 500 feet of a museum. There must be a connection and a reason, but how will they catch him when he keeps destroying the cameras and escaping?
  • A young officer is three years sober and committed to getting back on track. That is until he is called to the scene of a high-profile drug bust and is in charge of collecting evidence. Can he control himself around so many drugs?
  • Abandoned cars start randomly appearing throughout the city. No license plates and nothing inside. That is until one is found to contain several dismembered human limbs.
  • Your character has been receiving nasty, lifelike drawings in the mail. They ignore them at first, thinking it is some kids being silly. Until the drawings start coming to life. Since they have the drawings, they know what is going to happen next, and in what order.
  • Your main character and her husband awake one night in the early hours of the morning, both recalling a horrific dream from the night before. They soon learn the dream to be true as they discover a fresh, painful brand in between each of their shoulder blades.
  • Your character never wakes up feeling rested, no matter how long they sleep for. Medication doesn’t help. They decide to film themselves one night. The next morning they watch as they get out of bed around midnight, smirk at the camera, and wave before disappearing out the door for hours.
  • Your protagonist is a member of a small religious group. When a precious artifact goes missing, the head elder’s daughter is blamed for it. Your character knows she couldn’t be responsible because the two of them were romantically involved at the time of the theft. Such activities are strictly forbidden and the daughter would rather go down for the theft than admit to breaking that law.
  • There is a serial killer going after the children of rich and notable families in the area. Your main character is the child of one such family and is terrified every waking moment. Tired of living in fear, they decide to figure out who the killer is and stop them  
  • Your character gets a DNA test, just for fun. After getting the results and doing some more research, they discover that members of their ancestry from all over the world were once all gathered in the same place. The reason is unknown.
  • Your character receives a strange voicemail from an unknown number. The voicemail ends up changing the course of their entire life.
  • Your character is in an accident and loses the memory of the last year of their life. There are so many things that don’t make sense. They must retrace their steps to find answers.
  • The entire town has started sleepwalking, together, every night.  
  • Your character has a short but friendly encounter with a stranger in an elevator. The next day, they are all over TV as the victim of a brutal murder.
  • Your character is redecorating and takes down a painting. They notice something strange engraved on the back of the frame.
  • Your character goes to their usual coffee shop and orders “the usual.” The Barista smiles, nods, and slides something entirely different across the counter. She has never made a mistake before.
  • Your character opens a random book at the library when the cover page falls out. It says “if you are reading this, you have been chosen.”
  • When looking through some old family photos – going back generations – your character notices a cat in almost every photo. The very same colorful spotted cat with a single docked ear that is sitting on their lap.
  • When paying for their groceries, your main character mentions to the clerk that there is a mess in aisle 11. The clerk is confused and explains that there is no aisle 11.

Tips for Writing Crime and Mystery

  • This is a genre where a book writing template can come in handy. The plots are often so complex, it can be overwhelming to keep it all straight.
  • Draw inspiration from real-life crimes. This will make your story believable.
  • Also, draw your inspiration from real-life people and give them realistic motives behind their crimes. Crime and mystery are rarely set in a fantasy world, so being realistic is important.
  • Know how the mystery is solved before you start writing.
  • Include a few cliffhangers – usually at the end of a chapter.

Science Fiction Writing Prompts for Adults

Science fiction is similar to fantasy in that you can make up a lot of stuff, which is a fun way to write.

This is a versatile genre that can be molded into anything you want.

Sometimes, it is rooted in truth with elements of real scientific and technological advances. Other times, there are many assumptions made about the future of science, and lots of make-believe takes place.

  • A spaceship that can surpass the speed of light is allowing a few humans on board to escape our solar system and it’s dying sun. How does the world decide who gets to survive?
  • A shy, introverted tech guy develops a virus that can control human desires, impulses, and choices.
  • A pet store becomes overrun with kittens and sells them off at a low price. However, these cats are actually an alien hybrid that can body jump. It begins causing the owners of these cats to commit suicide within 24 hours of adoption.
  • A live TV broadcast from the White House experiences some technical difficulties. They end up broadcasting a top-secret meeting about a pending alien invasion.
  • Science has developed a brain scanning software that can read thoughts. Before they can decide what to do with it, someone has hacked the system and stolen it.
  • Your character wakes up on a spaceship with no memory.
  • The world has developed a genetic system that engineers everyone for a specific job in the community. Your character hates what they were created to do. This never happens.
  • The world has finally reached a state of all-encompassing peace thanks to a technical system that keeps things regulated. Your character is in charge of keeping the system running. When they discover exactly how the system is kept running, they consider abandoning their post and never turning back.
  • Your character accidentally traps themselves in an alternate universe that hasn’t discovered electricity or technology yet.

Tips for Writing Science Fiction

  • Make your story complex, but don’t rush it. Let your audience process information before adding more.
  • Keep the language simple and easy to understand even if the world isn’t. The majority of your readers will not be scientists or tech experts.
  • Be consistent in terms of the universe. Physical laws, social classes, etc. Know your own world.

Dystopian Writing Prompts for Adults

Dystopian stories are growing in popularity. The genres itself is growing and evolving all the time as people figure out what works and what entertains.

Dystopian is a fun genre to read and experience, but writing it can be just as enjoyable. Having fun while learning how to become a better writer is of utmost importance.

Be careful you’re not writing Dystopia just because it sells well. Make sure you have a real story to tell and that it’s one you believe in.

  • A newly married couple become pregnant with twins. Due to growing overpopulation, they are told they must make a choice when the babies are born. Only one will live. Rather than submit to this, they plan their escape across the border.
  • An amateur teen scientist accidentally discovers an impending alien attack set to destroy earth within a month. He becomes the unwilling leader of the evacuation and defense coalition.
  • A hacker discovers that the new iPhone can be remotely detonated. Many corrupt political leaders are assassinated in this way on the same day. The world breaks into chaos.
  • World War III has come and gone. Governments are a thing of the past and money is useless. Survival is the objective. Your main character also has a medical condition to keep under control.
  • A horrible outbreak of disease devastated the wildlife population 100 years ago. A scientist has recently created a virus that will strengthen the immune systems of the remaining animals. It works too well, and the animals are starting to overtake the human population.
  • After mental illness devastates a generation, scientists create an airborne substance that balances the levels of all people on the earth. Your character is one of the few who is immune.
  • Rampant wildfires are taking over the surface of the earth. Your character is part of a group who is trying to find a rumored ocean deep settlement. The settlement doesn’t really exist.
  • Nature extremists have taken over the government. Any and all activities that are harmful to the land or plants are forbidden and outlawed.
  • Natural farming is a thing of the past. All food is manufactured artificially and distributed. There is no flavor and it’s the same thing every day. Your character takes a stress-relieving trip to the mountains. Here they find the remnants of some real plants, with a few berries on them.

Tips for Writing Dystopian Fiction

  • Know what the message of the story is. What is the main character trying to achieve?
  • A dystopian society is usually one that has taken the current problems of the world and projected them into the future.
  • Dystopian realities are never good ones – make sure you have enough doom, gloom, and darkness for your readers to understand the state of the world.

Historical Writing Prompts for Adults

Historical fiction can be whimsical and charming. It can be dark and spooky. It can be funny and ridiculous. Stories of history span many genres.

Historical fiction can be a combination of educational and entertaining. It tests a writer’s research skills as well as knowledge. The better depiction you can create of your desired time period, the more effective your story will be.

Learning to research is crucial to know how to become a better writer.

  • From a first-person perspective, write about the showdown between a criminal and a lion in the Roman Colesseum.
  • Abraham Lincoln is famous for his top hat. Where did the top hat come from? Who was the president without it? Write a story about the infamous top hat and its life.
  • The Berlin wall has crashed to the ground and its love at first sight for one lucky couple – whose parents aren’t so impressed.
  • Your character is a talented composer whose direct competition is Beethoven.
  • Write about a dinner party where three famous historical figures are in attendance.
  • Your best friend has invented the very first time-travel machine.
  • Write about a well-known war, but give it a different outcome.
  • Write a happy ending for Dracula.
  • Your character’s husband of ten years has just confessed that he has traveled through time from the fourteenth century. He decided to stay because he fell in love with her.
  • Write about the thoughts of someone who is secretly watching Michelangelo paint the Sistine Chapel.
  • Your character is the only one who knows who really killed JFK. It wasn’t Oswald.
  • Your character is working under William Shakespeare as his apprentice.
  • Write about a pair of detectives who solve their cases by traveling back and forth in time.
  • Write about the experience of someone who has just learned of the Titanic’s sinking. They had a loved one on board.
  • Choose a major historical event. Write from the perspective of a witness.
  • Your character wants to travel across the land. No forms of transportation have been invented yet.
  • Write about someone who worked at one of the first printing presses during the printing revolution of the 15th century.

Tips for Writing Historical Fiction

  • Do your research! Inaccuracies or incorrect facts about the time you are writing in will break trust with your readers and decrease your credibility.
  • Choose a specific time period and location. “Early twentieth century” is too broad.
  • In addition to setting and facts, characters need to match the time period. This includes dress, behavior, and language.
  • Small details will matter.
  • Balance the historical facts with the drama and fictional elements.

Humorous Creative Writing Prompts for Adults

Another genre that is especially fun to write as well as read, is a comedy. Nothing beats throwing your head back in full laughter.

The goal here is to make people laugh as much as possible while still balancing a good story and believable characters.

  • Substitute teachers are tired of not being taken seriously. They come together and form a secret society, with plans to revolt.
  • An Elvis impersonator is so good that many start to believe Elvis has actually come back to life. Soon, he has been recruited to lead a superstitious Elvis-loving cult.
  • Three friends are out on the town for a night. Write about the most ridiculous series of events you can think of.
  • Life has gotten tough and your character is considering moving back in with their parents. Before they are able to make a decision, their parents show up at their door asking if they can move in.
  • Your character wakes up one day and everything they say rhymes. They can’t control it.
  • The climate is changing and your main character’s city gets snow for the first time in their entire life. She and her friends are recruited for clean up.
  • Your main character has never had a real job before. They are starting a job at the biggest, busiest store in town on the busiest day of the year.
  • Your character is set up on a blind date with their sworn enemy.
  • Every morning you have a package delivered that contains an item you end up needing that day.
  • Struggling with writer’s block, an author decides to sit at a local train station for information. They get some good material.
  • Your characters are holding a high-stakes rock-paper-scissors tournament.
  • Your main character gets backstage at a concert. What happens back there is much more interesting than the show.
  • Your protagonist decides to buy an old school bus and travel across the country. Being single without any close friends, they post an ad asking if anyone wants to join. The end up having their pick of travel partners.
  • Write a story about a low-profile, insignificant but long-unsolved crime is finally cracked.
  • Your character is a serial killer who kills anyone who hitchhikes along the mountain they live on. One day, they pick up a hitchhiker who kills whoever picks him up.
  • The world’s greatest detective finally meets his match: A criminal so stupid and so careless that the detective can’t ever predict what he is going to do next.

Tips for Writing Comedy

  • Test the humor on others. You might find something hilarious, but if no one else is going to laugh, it will be useless to include.
  • Observe comedy. Your ability to write it will hinge on your experience with it. Watch, read, listen, and speak comedy.
  • Have fun with it. Comedy is fun. If you’re not laughing at yourself along the way, you’ll never get through to the end.

Fantasy Writing Prompts for Adults

Fantasy is one of the most popular genres of the time. It’s growing every day because of its creative and immersive nature. People love to preoccupy themselves with something magical.

Being transported into another world for a little while – that’s what fantasy can do

  • In a world of advanced technological and magical advancements, one group keeps their practice of ancient spells a secret. One day, they are discovered and it leads to a fight. What is more powerful – old magic, or new technology?
  • A large, protected national forest is secretly home to werewolves. One summer there is an especially bad flea epidemic, and the werewolves are greatly affected. The fleas from the werewolves infect the town water supply and start turning everyone into werewolves. The only ones not affected are children under 13.
  • The world is overrun with vampires and humans are dying out. Different races and factions of vampires are beginning to go to war over the limited supply of human blood.
  • Your character finds a strange looking egg in the forest. Thinking it will make a great decoration, they take it home. What hatches from that egg surpasses their wildest imagination.
  • A city has spent centuries living in peace with the water-dwellers who reside in their lakes. Suddenly, the water dwellers declare war and no one knows why.
  • Your character has always been able to alter their appearance. They hide unattractive features. Suddenly, their powers stop working and their true appearance is revealed.
  • Your main character has a fascination with untouched societies – such as hidden tribes in the Amazon. She sets out to study them as a living. One day she accidentally allows herself to be seen by one of the members. What this person does is beyond what your character ever thought to be real.
  • The earth itself is dying and all life on the planet is dying with it.
  • Some people in the world have magic, others don’t. No one knows why. Your main character has magic, but his best friend doesn’t. The friend is exceptionally jealous and is growing more and more desperate to make the magic his.

Tips for Writing Fantasy

  • Focus on being unique
  • Don’t neglect worldbuilding . Inconsistencies will be obvious to readers. This is where a book writing software like Squibler can come in handy. It helps you stay organized and efficient.
  • Create unique names.
  • Don’t be afraid to make the journey long and the outcome unexpected.

Fantasy Novel Writing Template

Fantasy is one of the most complicated genres due to the necessity of building a brand new world. Squibler’s fantasy writing template will help you through this daunting process:

fantasy novel writing template

This template offers guidelines and suggestions for building your world as well as structuring and creating your storyline. It’s helpful but loose enough to allow your creativity to keep flowing.

Dialogue Inspired Writing Prompts

Sometimes, all it takes is a small exchange or a witty one-liner to get your brain working. Take these words and start something new. Or, insert them into an existing project and see what happens.

  • “As she stepped onto the train, I fought every urge to jump on after her.”
  • “He was expensive. Please be more considerate of my money the next time I hire an assassin to kill you.”
  • “You say that like it was a struggle.”
  • “I’m your conscience. That is literally my one job.”
  • “Well, I wish you didn’t love me. I guess no one is getting what they want today.”
  • “I guess it didn’t take.”
  • “I was bored so I blew up my house.”
  • “I taught you how to pick locks, and THAT is how you’re choosing to use the skill?”
  • “They thought I would forget everything. I remember even more than when they started.”
  • “Yes. But I don’t care.”
  • “I killed my mother. Are you really questioning what I can do to you right now?”

Write Your Next Masterpiece With These Creative Writing Prompts for Adults

Whether you have a book writing templat e all filled out or you are starting from scratch, these writing prompts will get your imagination going and make your writing time more productive.

Beat the writer’s block, get your groove back, or just be inspired.  Figure out how to love writing again. Whatever you’re looking for, hopefully, these ideas have helped form the story you need to tell.

creative writing prompts for seniors

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Home » Blog » 25 Creative Writing Prompts for Your Writing Group

25 Creative Writing Prompts for Your Writing Group

senior writing in a notebook at a retirement community

“Writing is easy. All you have to do is cross out the wrong words.” Mark Twain

The venerable Mr. Twain certainly had a sense of humor. If only it were that easy to be a writer! The real trick to creative writing is that there is no trick. Aside from having a story to tell, writing it down — and writing it well — the art of creative writing takes discipline, grit, thick skin, persistence, and lots and lots of practice.

Bring courage. Find trust.

Jot down your thoughts at home and then create stories free-form or with creative writing prompts. Once you’ve got a good start, look for a writers group of your peers. It’s OK if you’re reluctant to do it at first, but it may help to know that even seasoned wordsmiths feel the same trepidation when sharing their work with others. While writing is by nature a solitary activity, you’ll find it impossible to improve unless you take the plunge. Your bravery will be repaid when you find a group where you feel supported and where you can grow as a writer.

Look for a writers group that provides constructive feedback without pandering. If your senior living community hosts a writers group, that’s a good place to start. Everyone’s work should be treated with equal respect and value. There should be clear rules on how to deliver feedback. And because writers often share personal information, there should be an agreement that sensitive matters remain confidential.

Silence your inner critic.

Beginning writers often introduce their work with statements such as, “I’m not really creative,” “This isn’t very good,” or “I’ve never done this before.” Writing is an art form that belongs to everyone, regardless of their age, background or education level. Whether you’re choosing to express yourself artistically, pass along memories and stories to your children and grandchildren, dive into your inner life, or achieve recognition, give yourself permission to try, fail and succeed. It’s only when you believe in yourself as a writer that you can begin to strengthen and develop your voice as one.

Get ready, get set, write!

Now, grab your laptop or pen and paper. We’ve created a list of creative writing prompts guaranteed to help you hurdle writer’s block and get your creative juices flowing. Some of these exercises will tickle memories, some will engage your senses, and others will challenge your imagination. Do them quickly by setting a timer for 10 minutes, or give yourself longer if you find you have more to say. The more you practice, the better you will be.

Our 25 favorite creative writing prompts

  • 1. Write your life story in 10 sentences or less.
  • 2. Which is the oldest tree in your neighborhood, and what has it seen?
  • 3. Tell the story of who you are, and start with “I am from …”
  • 4. Look through the news and describe an hour in the life of someone who has had something unusual happen to them.
  • 5. Find a photo and write about what can’t be seen in the picture.
  • 6. You’re a fugitive from justice. What was your crime, and where are you headed?
  • 7. Find a favorite paragraph in a book you enjoy and rewrite it in your own words while keeping the original meaning.
  • 8. What piece of advice do you give most to people your age? Is it the same or different from advice you would give a younger or older person, and why?
  • 9. You wake up and realize it’s 100 years in the future. Describe your remarkable new life.
  • 10. Start a story with, “I picked it up to have a better look and …”
  • 11. Describe the smell wafting from the kitchen that’s making your mouth water.
  • 12. You’ve never seen a sunset like this before. Describe it so someone would want to be right there with you.
  • 13. Describe the music and lyrics from your favorite song in a way that someone else would immediately want to listen to it.
  • 14. Based on people in your life, create two or three characters, giving them names and personalities. Describe what motivates them.
  • 15. Have two characters sit across from each other and capture their interaction entirely in dialogue.
  • 16. Pick an object that is ugly and have a character see it as beautiful. Have them describe the object to someone else to convince them of its beauty.
  • 17. Describe the loudest sound you can think of and have a character hear it for the first time.
  • 18. Describe two people having a conversation but make it clear that they’re not talking about the same thing even though they think they are.
  • 19. List five fears in your life. Create a story where a character is forced to confront one of those fears.
  • 20. Create a character based on someone in your life whom you dislike. Now write about a situation where they’re shown in a sympathetic way despite their faults.
  • 21. Write an argument where a spouse tells their husband or wife about a physical ailment, but the spouse refuses to believe them.
  • 22. Write a funny to-do list to a teenager about how to attract a boyfriend or girlfriend.
  • 23. Think of an illness someone you love has suffered from. Have a character respond when they’re told someone close to them has the same illness.
  • 24. Have a character respond in an unusual way to the pandemic. Write two versions: one where they’re unselfconscious, and one where they’re aware of their behavior but hide it.
  • 25. Describe a conflict you remember and how it ended. Now, write an ending that is different from what actually happened and leaves the reader wanting to know more.

Read the book or watch the movie?

Do both at Lake Seminole Square. Our community offers 45+ committees, clubs and groups, including creative writing for seniors. Residents met regularly for book clubs and movie showings of new and classic films in our theater-style movie room. Learn how you can get together with friends and neighbors in this fun and energizing senior living setting .  

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The Health Benefits of Blue Spaces: How Living by Water Makes You Happier and Less Stressed

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Love To Write? Check Out These 51 Creative Writing Prompts For Adults

An essential part of being a writer is daily practice —even if that practice is only a few minutes.

And even when the results are less inspired than you hoped. 

As long as you’re committed to building a writing habit and practicing your craft, you’re a writer—not just an “aspiring” one.

Sometimes, all you need is a generous supply of fun writing prompts for adults to get you started. 

We’re happy to help with that. 

What Are Some Interesting Writing Prompts? 

The best, most effective writing topics for adults are those you enjoy. They should stimulate your memory and imagination and create connections in the mind. All you need to do at that moment is to let the words flow onto the page.

Writing prompts can do this in one or more of the following ways: 

  • Remind you of a significant event in your own life; 
  • Trigger a powerful emotion about a particular event or relationship; 
  • Connect to a meaningful experience you’d like to dwell on for a bit;
  • Connect to other disjointed details in your memory; 
  • Relate to universal themes you’d like to explore. 

How You Can Use Daily Writing Prompts for Adults 

Here are a few ideas for using adult writing prompts: 

  • Start a creating writing journal using these as daily prompts ; 
  • Take one prompt and break it down into smaller installments; 
  • Start a creative writing group and share 1-3 prompts per week;
  • Play music that fits the mood of a particular prompt; 
  • Set a timer and commit to writing for at least five minutes straight. 

The best ideas for using the list of prompts below are those you’ll actually use and enjoy. 

51 Creative Writing Prompts for Adults 

Read through the following list of adult writing prompts and let your imagination respond to each one. Some will get your mind going more quickly than others. Some will have a stronger effect at different times. 

You’re welcome to keep this whole list handy or make a smaller list with your favorites. 

1. You’ve just been jolted out of a dream you’d give all your worldly possessions to return to. What was it about?

2. Someone you look up to makes an unexpected and hurtful remark about your body. What goes through your head, and how do you respond? 

3. You’re alone at night in your apartment in the city, and the doorbell starts ringing repeatedly. You look through the peephole and… 

4. You write an anonymous advice column and one day discover the unintended consequences of advice you thought was helpful. 

5. By day, you’re a responsible, if reclusive, college student. By night, you fly over your city as a dragon.  

writing prompts for adults

6. On the advice of her therapist, you write about a character from her dreams, and they show up at your door. 

7. Your significant other interrupts your work one day to say, “I need to tell you something.” What goes through your mind?

8. You don’t really want a pet, but when a friendly stray follows you home, your tender heart wins out and you let it in.

9. You meet someone with whom you feel not only safe but wanted and cherished. One day you catch them with someone else. 

10. You wake up in a different place lying next to someone else and, for some reason you feel more at home. But which life is real?

11. You’re a few short hours away from facing your worst nightmare. What is it, and how do you prepare?

12. You wake up with a headache in a coffin-size box and hear voices outside it speaking a different language. 

13. What comes to mind with the words, “What were you thinking ?”

14. For some reason, everyone is giving you strange looks and tip-toeing around you. 

15. Figures. Just when you get good at coding, the internet shuts down — everywhere. 

16. You were digging in your yard when you found it. And you fully intend to keep it secret.

17. You’re comfortable with anonymity, so it’s unsettling when, one day, everyone you meet acts as if they’ve known you all your life.

18. Your spouse thinks you’re leaving for work, but you know the truth. Maybe, one day, you’ll tell them—if you survive today. 

19. Someone slips a note underneath your apartment door. You unfold it to find a phone number and a brief, urgent message. 

20. Your spouse asks if you’re interested in trying something different with your marriage. And it’s not fantasy role-play. 

21. You wake up one day, and everyone seems shocked to see you alive. You look in the mirror and understand why. 

22. You wake up in the body of a famous historical figure you’ve been studying. How does your day go?

23. Ever since the accident, you’ve been hearing voices—not all the time but often when it’s least convenient. 

writing prompts for adults

24. You show up alone at an old friend’s funeral to pay your respects, but when you reach the coffin, the face you see is your own. 

25. You’ve always taken comfort in the presence of your own shadow, but it’s started taking on a life of its own. 

26. You have one day to do whatever you want without any consequences. What do you do?

27. You’re visited one night by the disembodied spirit of someone you know (still living). Why do they visit you?

28. You’re on the worst vacation ever. And you’re about to do something crazy to change it for the better. 

29. An evil genius hires you as his personal assistant. Your first day on the job is life-changing. 

30. Your life is the subject of a favorite TV show. Describe your character and write about an important scene of your own making. 

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31. You find a high-paying job doing something you love. But when your devoutly religious relatives ask what you do, you lie.  

32. Your parents have just revealed a family secret they hoped they’d never have to tell you. You’re about to share it with your partner.

33. You’re in couple’s therapy, and the therapist suggests something you initially consider outrageous but are then… surprisingly open to it. 

34. Write about a time when you had to hide from someone. Were you protecting yourself—or them?

35. Write about an animal you identify with and describe the traits you share with them—or wish you shared. 

36. Describe a moment when someone you were once attracted to tried to intimidate you, and you turned the tables. 

37. Write about how different your life might be if, back at a pivotal moment in your life, you’d taken a different turn. 

38. Write about a relationship that taught you an important lesson and what you would tell that person now. 

39. You inherit a house and discover a secret door leading to a surprise your deceased relative clearly knew about. 

40. You meet and become friends with someone who’s the living equivalent of a favorite character from a novel you’ve read—or written. 

41. You become famous, and your life changes overnight. Write about how it happens and what it leads to. 

42. Create a powerful antagonist character and describe them. What kind of relationship would you or your protagonist have with them?

43. “She looked at me as if seeing me for the first time. When she finally spoke, she said… “

44. You did or said something that has left your family and friends speechless with shock. What is it, and what are the consequences?

45. You have this eerie feeling someone or something is following you home. You’re right. What or who is it, and what do they want?

46. You make a birthday wish, and it comes true. Describe what happens as a result. 

47. You stand up to a bully, and the results are mixed. What happens?

48. You finally get your dream job (or gig), and then you learn something about it that changes everything. 

49. For the first time in your life, you feel free to express your thoughts and see them as worth expressing. Why?

50. You write a book that becomes a bestseller , and someone you meet tells you it’s their new favorite. Describe the book and your fan. 

51. You get a dream job, and your boss turns out to be something other than human. The problem? You’re falling hard for them. 

Now that you’ve looked through all the above writing prompts, which ones stood out for you as favorites? And which will you use today? 

There are times when writers struggle to start their writing pieces. On that note, there is plenty of writing prompts for adults and in this post, there are 51 prompts to choose from.

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8 Memoir Writing Prompts for Older Adults: How to Write Your Life Story

Memoir Writing Prompts For Older Adults

How to Start Off a Memoir: Everyone’s Story Is Different

There isn’t one right way to write a memoir because everyone’s life story and creative process are unique. Deanna says that, for years, she was held down by the idea that the start of her book—even that very first line—had to be critically special and that she couldn’t live up to the great writers who had come before her. Then, in one of her classes , as she was warming up with a simple writing prompt that asked her to write about an ordinary observation in nature , she didn’t realize she was writing her book’s introduction until it was already done.

A dark brown spider the size of a pea is testing out the space between the arm of my chair and the potted plant 12 or so inches away. It’s establishing some early foundational threads but having to stop every handful of seconds and grip the silk, balling its body up against the wind. I look away for less than a minute, and when I look back, I can’t locate it. The spider has migrated to the space between the chair and the table. It tests. And then it moves again to find enough shelter from the wind’s natural rhythm and my own unpredictable vibrations and disruptions. I smile when I see that it has finally settled between a couple of the table’s own legs and begun to stretch its threads under the table top’s shelter.

How many tries did it take me? Six out-of-state moves before I found somewhere I could start building a lasting home around myself. I had to leave a lot of half-built lives along the way, but I always took away some invisible building blocks that I’d be able to lay down and start the foundation in the next spot. That won’t be the spider’s last neighborhood, but I hope this will be mine.

Experiment and Have Fun: Memoir Writing Prompts for Older Adults

Sometimes, the best way to get started writing your life story is to stop trying. Deanna found her groove when she let go, let herself warm up, and let herself play. Think of the writing process itself as a playground, and each of the prompts below is a new area in which to play and explore. A slide isn’t just a structure to get you from one place to another, it’s also designed to inspire joy, suspense, and a healthy sense of fear. It’s smooth and can be hot or cold to the touch. It can give you a shock in the dry weather, and you’re never quite sure what your landing will be like on the other side. Are you willing to take a ride down with one of these little adventures?

  • Can you recall your childhood best friend and some of the things you used to do together? Places you used to go? Ways you pulled your imaginations together?
  • Close your eyes and take a tour back through some prominent places from your childhood: a house you grew up in, a relative’s house, a school, a store, a park where you used to play. The list could go on and on, and the rooms within the buildings would extend the tour as well. As you follow your memories through these places, what can you sense? Are there smells, sounds, textures, colors, or even tastes that come back to you?
  • What were some traditions your family observed during your early life? Do any of those traditions survive to this day in your family?
  • Describe a turning point in your life. Explore the past, present, and future around that experience.
  • Which one of your parents—or perhaps another family member—are you most like? How do those similarities make you feel? What about you stands apart?
  • Can you remember back to a conversation or interaction that inspired you? See if you can return your imagination to that experience and then write about it from that place of inspiration.
  • What was one of your favorite songs from long ago that comes with strong memories or feelings? You may not still have your original playback method, but you can probably find the song by searching the title and artist online. If you can locate it, set aside some time to listen to it (maybe even on repeat), and then, while it’s still playing or in silence afterward, explore the memories and feelings that arise. Let them dance onto your page as they follow their own rhythm.
  • Choose something that is important to you. It could be anything from a cherished relationship to a souvenir you brought home from a special trip. Begin by writing about that thing, and then see where your thoughts naturally take you from there.

With any and all of these prompts, don’t become attached to a certain outcome. Don’t hold yourself to a certain expectation of what your story should look like or get intimidated because this little exercise is only a small start toward a larger project. Instead, set the intention to enjoy yourself and the process along the way. It’s worth it to try life-story writing because it’s worth it to explore your life ! Try to put that second consideration first. If you’re wondering how to start off a memoir, don’t get hung up on the memoir itself; instead, get in touch with what’s really interesting: you and your life story. At Institute on Aging , we get to share and take part in so many inspiring life stories . We would be honored for you to join our community too and to discover the richness of daily storytelling with diverse friends. To learn more about our programs or to unearth more exciting activity ideas, get in touch with us!

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20 Creative Journal Prompts for Seniors to Nurture Mindfulness and Reflection

20 Creative Journal Prompts for Seniors to Nurture Mindfulness and Reflection 1

As we age, there’s no denying that we accumulate a wealth of knowledge and life experiences. Our calendars may become less full, but our minds are buzzing with a lifetime’s worth of memories, lessons learned, and wisdom gained. One of the best ways to tap into that knowledge is by journaling. Yes, that’s right- journaling! Writing down your thoughts and experiences can be a fantastic way to reflect on your life, gain new insights, and keep your mind sharp. That’s why today, I’d like to share some journal prompts for seniors that are sure to get your creative juices flowing.

So, you might be wondering, what exactly makes a good journal prompt? Well, it’s all about getting yourself to think deeply and reflect on your life. The right prompt can take you on a journey of self-discovery, helping you to unlock new insights and perspectives. It could be a question about an important life event, a moment of personal growth, or something as simple as what you’re grateful for today. Whatever the prompt, the idea is to get your mind working and tap into your life experience. That’s why I’ve compiled some of my favorite journal prompts for seniors that I hope will inspire you to start writing today.

From reflecting on your earliest memories to writing a letter to your future self, these journal prompts for seniors are sure to get you thinking, reflecting, and feeling grateful for all the experiences that have brought you to this point in your life. So grab a pen and paper and get ready for some self-discovery. With these prompts, you might be surprised at what you can uncover about yourself and the world around you. Journal prompts for elderly on self-reflection

Self-reflection is an essential process for elder individuals who have a lot of life experiences to look back upon. Engaging in this process can help them better understand themselves, their strengths and weaknesses, and how they became the person they are today. Journal prompts are an excellent tool to help seniors kickstart their self-reflection process. Below are 15 journal prompts that can help seniors reflect upon their lives.

  • What are some significant moments in your life that have made you who you are today?
  • What are your most significant accomplishments in life, and how did you achieve them?
  • What regrets do you have in life, and what have you learned from them?
  • What lessons have you learned after dealing with hardships and challenges?
  • What values do you hold most dear, and how have they helped you in life?
  • What are some things you wish you had known when you were younger?
  • What are your happiest memories, and what makes them so special?
  • What are the things that make you feel grateful in life, and why?
  • What are your top priorities in life, and how do you stay focused on them?
  • What are your biggest fears, and what have you learned from confronting your fears?
  • What are some things you would like to do but have not done yet, and why?
  • What role have relationships played in your life, and how have they impacted you?
  • What are the things that bring you joy, and how can you incorporate them more into your life?
  • What are some things you would like younger generations to know about life?
  • What advice would you give to your younger self if you had the chance?

These journal prompts are just a few examples of the many questions that seniors can reflect upon through journaling. Writing about their experiences can help senior individuals gain a new perspective on their lives, learn from their past, and make better decisions in the future. Journaling is a powerful tool that allows seniors to explore their thoughts and feelings, gain insight into their lives, and ultimately, facilitate personal growth and development.

Through journaling, seniors can gain a better understanding of themselves and the world around them, leading to a more fulfilling life in their golden years.

Journal prompts for seniors on memory lane

Memory lane is a place where our past experiences come alive in vivid detail. For seniors, revisiting their memories can be a therapeutic way to engage their mind, reflect on their lives, and make peace with their past. Here are 15 journal prompts that can assist seniors in recalling their memories and reminiscing about their past:

  • What was your earliest childhood memory?
  • What was your favorite childhood game or toy?
  • Can you describe a typical day at your childhood home?
  • What was your favorite subject in school?
  • Can you remember a significant event that happened during your teenage years?
  • What was your first job, and how did you get it?
  • What was your most memorable vacation, and what made it special?
  • Can you recall a particular accomplishment that you are proud of achieving?
  • What was your first car, and how did it make you feel?
  • Can you describe the most romantic moment of your life?
  • What was the happiest moment in your life?
  • Can you remember the most challenging time in your life?
  • What is the most valuable lesson you have learned throughout your life?
  • What was the most significant loss you have experienced, and how did you cope with it?
  • Can you describe your proudest moment as a parent or grandparent?

By answering these journal prompts, seniors can dive deep into their memories and recall the significant events and emotions that shaped their lives. Revisiting the past can be a cathartic experience, helping them gain closure, reconnect with their true selves, and find peace in the present moment. Take the time to explore your memories and discover the treasures within them.

In conclusion, journaling about memory lane can be an excellent way for seniors to reflect on their past experiences and bring up fond memories. It can allow seniors to stay mentally active while also promoting a sense of well-being. If you know a senior in your life who might benefit from these prompts, consider sharing them and encouraging them to start journaling.

Journal prompts for elderly on bucket list

Bucket lists are dreams and aspirations that seniors wish to achieve or experience before they pass away. Creating a bucket list journal is an excellent way for seniors to keep track of their wishes and make sure they don’t miss out on the things they would like to accomplish. Here are some bucket list journal prompts for the elderly to help them achieve their goals:

  • What are your top three places that you want to travel to before you die?
  • Make a list of all the books you’ve always wanted to read.
  • What are some things you’ve always wanted to learn but never had the opportunity to do so?
  • If you could meet anyone, who would it be?
  • Write about the happiest moment of your life.
  • What is something you’ve always wanted to do, but you’re too scared to try it?
  • Create a list of all the people who have made a positive impact on your life.
  • Write down your favorite quotes or sayings that inspire you.
  • What is something you’ve always wanted to learn but never had the chance to do?
  • What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind?
  • If you could relive any moment of your life, what would it be?
  • Make a list of all the things you would like to teach someone before you die.
  • What is something you’ve always wanted to ask someone but never had the chance to do so?
  • Think about something you’ve always wanted to do but felt it was too frivolous. Write down why you have denied yourself of this pleasure.
  • What is one thing you’ve always wanted to achieve but never believed was possible?

Just because you are a senior doesn’t mean you can’t make your dreams come true. You never know what’s possible until you try. By setting bucket list goals and keeping track of them in a journal, seniors can ensure that they are taking the necessary steps towards achieving their dreams.

One of the most important things for seniors to remember is that bucket lists are personal. There is no right or wrong way to create this list. Bucket list prompts are designed to get seniors thinking about their goals and aspirations in a different light. By exploring these prompts and writing about them, seniors may be able to gain clarity on what they truly want to accomplish in their lifetime.

Journal prompts for seniors about personal achievement

Personal achievement is a significant aspect of any senior’s life, and journaling is an excellent way to reflect on personal achievements. Journaling about personal achievements helps seniors gain a sense of accomplishment, celebrate their successes, and acknowledge their strengths. Here are 15 journal prompts for seniors to explore their personal achievements:

  • What is my biggest accomplishment in life so far?
  • What challenges have I overcome in my life?
  • What skills have I learned and developed over time?
  • What goals have I achieved in the past?
  • How have I grown emotionally and mentally in the past few years?
  • What role did I play in my past achievements?
  • What have I learned from my past successes and failures?
  • What have others recognized me for in the past?
  • How have I contributed to my community in the past?
  • What are my most significant strengths, and how have they helped me in my life?
  • What are some challenges I faced that have helped me grow as a person?
  • What have I learned from taking risks and stepping out of my comfort zone?
  • What advice would I give my younger self about achieving personal goals?
  • What are my current goals, and how do I plan to achieve them?
  • What are some new skills I would like to learn or develop in the future?

Journaling about personal achievements is an opportunity for seniors to acknowledge their hard work, resilience, and strengths. It is a reminder that they are capable of achieving great things and to take pride in their accomplishments!

By taking time to reflect on personal achievements, seniors can gain a better understanding of themselves and their goals. Journal prompts provide seniors with a starting point to begin exploring their personal achievements. Seniors can choose to write about one prompt in-depth or answer all the questions briefly. Whatever the approach, the goal is to explore their personal achievements and take pride in their successes.

Journal Prompts for Elderly on Healthy Living

Healthy living is vital for everyone, and it’s especially important for seniors who may have a few health complications. Journaling is an excellent way for seniors to track their healthy living activities, learn from their experiences, and get in touch with their inner thoughts. Here are some fantastic journal prompts that can help seniors focus on their healthy living habits:

  • What does healthy living mean to you? Describe your ideal healthy lifestyle.
  • What are some of the healthy foods you enjoy eating, and how often do you include them in your diet?
  • What is your favorite form of exercise, and how do you incorporate it into your weekly routine?
  • How do you relax and take care of your mental and emotional well-being?
  • What are some of the things you do to maintain good personal hygiene?
  • Describe a time when you overcame a health challenge. How did you feel about it?
  • What are some of your favorite healthy recipes? Write them down and try making them at home.
  • Do you have any unhealthy habits you’d like to get rid of? What are they, and how do they affect your health?
  • What are your favorite outdoor activities that help you stay active?
  • How do you stay hydrated, and how much water do you drink per day?
  • What are some of the ways you cope with stress?
  • What are some of the ways you keep your mind active?
  • What motivates you to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
  • Write down your regular doctor’s appointment schedule, and reflect on how your checkups have improved your health.
  • What are some of the things you do to stay socially connected?

These journal prompts for seniors are just a few examples of how to encourage healthy living. Remember that journaling is an excellent way to track your progress, reflect on your experiences, and come up with new ideas to improve your mental, physical and emotional health.

By setting aside a few minutes every day to journal, seniors can maintain an active and healthy lifestyle and live their best life.

Journal prompts for seniors on relationships

As we age, our relationships take on new meanings and significance. Whether it’s a partner, family member, or friend, our connections to others are an essential aspect of our lives. Journaling about relationships can help seniors process complex emotions related to love, loss, and friendship. Here are some journal prompts that can help seniors reflect on their relationships:

  • Describe your ideal partner or friend. What qualities are important to you in a relationship?
  • How have you changed as a partner or friend over the years?
  • What have been the biggest challenges in your relationships? How have you overcome them?
  • What is one thing that you appreciate most about your partner or friend?
  • What is your happiest memory with your partner or friend? Why does it stand out?
  • Have you ever experienced heartbreak or loss in a relationship? How did you cope with it?
  • How do you maintain healthy relationships with your loved ones?
  • What advice would you give to someone seeking long-lasting friendships or relationships?
  • Compare and contrast your current relationships with those you had in the past.
  • What role do family members play in your life? How have they influenced your relationships?
  • What are your favorite ways to show your love and appreciation for your partner or friend?
  • What are some traditions or rituals that you and your loved ones share?
  • How do you handle conflicts in your relationships? Are there any strategies that you’ve found to be particularly effective?
  • Has aging affected your relationships? If so, in what ways?
  • What do you hope your legacy will be in terms of the relationships you’ve built?

Reflecting on our relationships through journaling can help seniors to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their connections to the people around them. It can also provide an outlet for processing complex emotions and experiences related to love, loss, and friendship. Encourage the seniors in your life to use these journal prompts as a tool for reflection and self-discovery.

Journal prompts for elderly on overcoming challenges

Journaling can be a powerful tool for seniors to work through their emotions and feelings, especially when they are facing challenges. Writing about challenges in a journal can help seniors to see patterns in their thoughts and behaviors, identify their strengths, and explore possible solutions. Here are 15 journal prompts for seniors to overcome challenges.

  • What is the biggest challenge I am facing right now?
  • How am I feeling about this challenge?
  • What are the negative thoughts I am having about this challenge?
  • What are the positive thoughts I am having about this challenge?
  • What strengths do I possess that can help me overcome this challenge?
  • Who can I talk to for support in overcoming this challenge?
  • What are some possible solutions to this challenge?
  • What are the consequences of not addressing this challenge?
  • What is the worst-case scenario if I don’t overcome this challenge?
  • What is the best-case scenario if I do overcome this challenge?
  • How can I break this challenge down into smaller steps?
  • What resources or tools can I use to overcome this challenge?
  • What have I learned from past challenges that can help me overcome this one?
  • What self-care practices can I engage in to manage my stress while working to overcome this challenge?
  • What support systems can I build or strengthen to help me overcome this challenge?

By using these journal prompts, seniors can identify their challenges, examine their thought patterns, and explore possible solutions. Journaling can also help seniors establish a sense of control over their challenges by creating a written record of their progress and demonstrating their ability to overcome obstacles. With patience and self-reflection, seniors can use journaling as a tool to overcome challenges and find greater peace and contentment in their daily lives.

If the challenges seniors face seem too overwhelming or causing extreme distress, seeking professional help is recommended to address the challenges healthily.

Frequently Asked Questions about Journal Prompts for Seniors

1. what are journal prompts.

Journal prompts are thought-provoking questions or statements that inspire seniors to write down their thoughts and feelings. They can be used as a starting point for reflective writing or to document daily experiences.

2. Why are journal prompts important for seniors?

Journal prompts can help seniors improve their cognitive skills, memory, and mental well-being. Writing about their experiences and emotions can also help seniors process their feelings, cope with challenges, and find meaning in their lives.

3. How do I choose the right journal prompts for seniors?

The right journal prompts will depend on the individual senior. Consider their interests, hobbies, and life experiences when selecting prompts. You can also look for prompts related to specific themes, such as gratitude, self-reflection, or personal growth.

4. How often should seniors write using journal prompts?

There is no right or wrong frequency to use journal prompts. Some seniors may benefit from daily journaling, while others may prefer to write only once or twice a week. The important thing is to make journaling a regular habit.

5. How can I encourage seniors to use journal prompts?

Encourage seniors to view journaling as a fun and creative activity rather than a chore. Provide them with a comfortable and inviting space to write, and offer positive feedback on their writing. You can also provide prompts that are tailored to their interests and experiences.

6. What are some examples of journal prompts for seniors?

Examples of journal prompts for seniors include “What are you grateful for today?” “What is your happiest memory?” “What are some of your proudest accomplishments?” and “What challenges have you overcome in your life?”

7. Can journaling with prompts improve physical health as well?

Yes, journaling with prompts can have physical health benefits such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality, and boosting the immune system. It can also help seniors manage chronic pain and illnesses by providing a creative outlet for distraction and emotional processing.

Closing Thoughts

Thank you for taking the time to learn about how journal prompts can help improve the well-being of seniors. Remember to choose prompts that are tailored to the individual, and encourage them to view journaling as a positive and rewarding activity. With consistent practice and a humble attitude, journaling can become a valuable tool for seniors to process their feelings and stay mentally sharp. Visit us again for more tips on how to live a fulfilling and healthy life!

  • 10 Engaging Journal Prompts for Older Adults to Nurture their Mental Wellness
  • 50 Best Journal Prompts for High School Seniors to Reflect on Their Journey
  • 25 Inspiring Journal Prompts for Elderly: Stay Sharp with Daily Writing Practice
  • 50 Journal Prompts for Seniors in High School to Enhance Their Writing Skills
  • 50 Engaging Journal Prompts for Grandparents to Share their Wisdom and Memories - Journal Prompts for Grandparents

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WEEKLY WRITING PROMPTS

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Aposiopesis, set your story at a silent retreat..

LIVE – Angst

Write a story in which an important message is cut off, leaving characters to wonder or puzzle out what was left unsaid.

LIVE – Mystery

Write a story including the line “I can’t say it.”

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Write a story in which a conversation takes place where the true subject is only implied.

Start or finish your story with a speaker unable to finish their sentence, perhaps overcome by emotion..

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Write about a character who isn’t nostalgic about their past at all, and show readers why.

Write a story about a grown-up sharing their favorite childhood video game with their child., write a time-travel story where a character from the present finds themselves in the 80s or 90s., write a story about someone finally gaining access into their family’s very old computer., start your story with a character finding a retro piece of tech they don’t recognize., write a story that includes someone saying, “you can’t run forever.”, write about a character who suddenly cannot run anymore., make a race an important element of your story., write a story in which a character is running away from something, literally or metaphorically., start your story with one or two characters going for a run., win $250 in our short story competition 🏆.

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Creative Writing Prompts

When the idea to start a weekly newsletter with writing inspiration first came to us, we decided that we wanted to do more than provide people with topics to write about. We wanted to try and help authors form a regular writing habit and also give them a place to proudly display their work. So we started the weekly Creative Writing Prompts newsletter. Since then, Prompts has grown to a community of more than 450,000 authors, complete with its own literary magazine, Prompted .  

Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted on our Reedsy Prompts page.

Interested in participating in our short story contest? Sign up here for more information! Or you can check out our full Terms of Use and our FAQ page .

Why we love creative writing prompts

If you've ever sat in front of a computer or notebook and felt the urge to start creating worlds, characters, and storylines — all the while finding yourself unable to do so — then you've met the author's age-old foe: writer's block. There's nothing more frustrating than finding the time but not the words to be creative. Enter our directory! If you're ready to kick writer's block to the curb and finally get started on your short story or novel, these unique story ideas might just be your ticket.

This list of 1800+ creative writing prompts has been created by the Reedsy team to help you develop a rock-solid writing routine. As all aspiring authors know, this is the #1 challenge — and solution! — for reaching your literary goals. Feel free to filter through different genres, which include...

Dramatic — If you want to make people laugh and cry within the same story, this might be your genre.

Funny — Whether satire or slapstick, this is an opportunity to write with your funny bone.

Romance — One of the most popular commercial genres out there. Check out these story ideas out if you love writing about love.

Fantasy — The beauty of this genre is that the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Dystopian – Explore the shadowy side of human nature and contemporary technology in dark speculative fiction.

Mystery — From whodunnits to cozy mysteries, it's time to bring out your inner detective.

Thriller and Suspense — There's nothing like a page-turner that elicits a gasp of surprise at the end.

High School — Encourage teens to let their imaginations run free.

Want to submit your own story ideas to help inspire fellow writers? Send them to us here.

After you find the perfect story idea

Finding inspiration is just one piece of the puzzle. Next, you need to refine your craft skills — and then display them to the world. We've worked hard to create resources that help you do just that! Check them out:

  • How to Write a Short Story That Gets Published — a free, ten-day course by Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who runs a book editing company in Brooklyn.
  • Best Literary Magazines of 2023 — a directory of 100+ reputable magazines that accept unsolicited submissions.
  • Writing Contests in 2023 — the finest contests of 2021 for fiction and non-fiction authors of short stories, poetry, essays, and more.

Beyond creative writing prompts: how to build a writing routine

While writing prompts are a great tactic to spark your creative sessions, a writer generally needs a couple more tools in their toolbelt when it comes to developing a rock-solid writing routine . To that end, here are a few more additional tips for incorporating your craft into your everyday life.

  • NNWT. Or, as book coach Kevin Johns calls it , “Non-Negotiable Writing Time.” This time should be scheduled into your routine, whether that’s once a day or once a week. Treat it as a serious commitment, and don’t schedule anything else during your NNWT unless it’s absolutely necessary.
  • Set word count goals. And make them realistic! Don’t start out with lofty goals you’re unlikely to achieve. Give some thought to how many words you think you can write a week, and start there. If you find you’re hitting your weekly or daily goals easily, keep upping the stakes as your craft time becomes more ingrained in your routine.
  • Talk to friends and family about the project you’re working on. Doing so means that those close to you are likely to check in about the status of your piece — which in turn keeps you more accountable.

Arm yourself against writer’s block. Writer’s block will inevitably come, no matter how much story ideas initially inspire you. So it’s best to be prepared with tips and tricks you can use to keep yourself on track before the block hits. You can find 20 solid tips here — including how to establish a relationship with your inner critic and apps that can help you defeat procrastination or lack of motivation.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 105 creative writing prompts to try out.

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The most common advice out there for being a writer is, "if you want to write, write." While this is true (and good advice), it's not always that easy, particularly if you're not writing regularly.

Whether you're looking for help getting started on your next project, or just want to spend 20 minutes being creative, writing prompts are great ways to rev up your imagination. Read on for our list of over 100 creative writing prompts!

feature image credit: r. nial bradshaw /Flickr

10 Short Writing Prompts

If you're looking for a quick boost to get yourself going, these 10 short writing prompts will do the trick.

#1 : Write a scene starting with a regular family ritual that goes awry.

#2 : Describe exactly what you see/smell/hear/etc, right now. Include objects, people, and anything else in your immediate environment.

#3 : Suggest eight possible ways to get a ping pong ball out of a vertical pipe.

#4 : A shoe falls out of the sky. Justify why.

#5 : If your brain were a tangible, physical place, what would it be like?

#6 : Begin your writing with the phrase, "The stage was set."

#7 : You have been asked to write a history of "The Summer of [this past year]." Your publisher wants a table of contents. What events will you submit?

#8 : Write a sympathetic story from the point of view of the "bad guy." (Think fractured fairy tales like Wicked or The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! , although the story doesn't have to be a fairy tale.)

#9 : Look at everyday objects in a new way and write about the stories one of these objects contains.

#10 : One person meets a stranger on a mode of transportation. Write the story that ensues.

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11 Writing Prompts for Kids

Any of these prompts can be used by writers of any age, but we chose the following 11 prompts as ones that would be particularly fun for kids to write about. (Most of them I used myself as a young writer, so I can vouch for their working!)

#1 : Include something falling in your writing.

#2 : Write a short poem (or story) with the title, "We don't know when it will be fixed."

#3 : Write from the perspective of someone of a different gender than you.

#4 : Write a dumb internet quiz.

#5 : Finish this thought: "A perfect day in my imagination begins like this:"

#6 : Write a character's inner monologue (what they are thinking as they go about their day).

#7 : Think of a character. Write a paragraph each about:

  • An important childhood experience that character had.
  • The character's living situation.
  • Two hobbies or things the character likes to do.
  • The room where the character sleeps.
  • An ambition of the character.
  • Two physical characteristics of the character.
  • What happens when a second person and this character meet.
  • Two important defining personal traits of this character.

#8 : Start a story with a quote from a song.

#9 : Begin a story with, "It was the summer of ______ when ______"

#10 : Pretend everyday objects have no names. Think about what you would name them based on what they do, what you can use them for, and what they look like.

#11 : Start a story with the phrases "My grandparents are/were," "My parents are/were," or "My mother/father/parent is/was."

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15 Cool Writing Prompts

#1 : List five issues that you're passionate about. Write about them from the opposite point of view (or from the perspective of a character with the opposite point of view).

#2 : Walk around and write down a phrase you hear (or read). Make a story out of it.

#3 : Write using no adjectives or adverbs.

#4 : Write a character's inner dialogue between different aspects of a character's self (rather than an inner monologue).

#5 : Write a true story from your past that involves light or darkness in some way.

#6 : "Saying goodbye awakens us to the true nature of things." Write something in which someone has to say goodbye and has a realization.

#7 : Begin by writing the end of the story.

#8 : Write a recipe for an intangible thing.

#9 : Write a horror story about an ordinary situation (e.g., buying groceries, going to the bank, listening to music).

#10 : Write a story from within a bubble.

#11 : Write down 2-3 short character descriptions and then write the characters in conversation with one another.

#12 : Write a story in second person.

#13 : Write a story that keeps contradicting itself.

#14 : Write about a character with at least three big problems.

#15 : Write something that takes place on a Friday, the 13th (of any month).

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15 Funny Writing Prompts

#1 : Write a story which starts with someone eating a pickle and potato sandwich.

#2 : Write a short script where the plot has to do with evil dolls trying to take over something.

#3 : Write about writers' block.

#4 : List five election issues that would be ridiculous to includes as part of your election platform (e.g. outlawing mechanical pencils and clicky pens, mandating every person over the age of 30 must own an emergency last rites kit). Choose one of the ridiculous issues and write a speech in favor of it.

#5 : Write a children's story that is insanely inappropriate but can't use graphic language, curses, or violence.

#6 : List five careers. Write about someone with one of those careers who wants to quit it.

#7 : Write down a list of murder methods. Choose one at random from the list to use in a story.

#8 : Write a romance story in which the hero must have a last name corresponding with a physical characteristic (e.g. Jacques Hairyback or Flora Dimple).

#9 : Come up with 10 different ways to:

  • order a pizza
  • congratulate someone on a job well done
  • return to the store something that's broken

#10 : Search for "random Renaissance painting" (or any other inspirational image search text you can think of) on any online internet image search engine. Picking one image, write half a page each of:

  • Statements about this image (e.g. "I meant bring me the BREAD of John the Baptist").
  • Questions about this image (e.g. "How many of those cherubs look like their necks are broken?").
  • Explanations of this image (e.g. "The painter ran out of blue paint halfway through and had to improvise for the color of the sky").
  • Commands said by people in this image or about this image (e.g. "Stop telling me to smile!" or "Bring me some gasoline!").

#11 : Write starting with a word that sounds like "chute" (e.g. "chute," "shoot," "shooed").

#12 : Write about a character named X "The [article of clothing]" Y (e.g. Julie "The Yellow Darted Skirt" Whyte) or simply referred to by their clothing (e.g. "the man in the brown suit" or "the woman in black").

#13 : Write down a paragraph each describing two wildly different settings. Write a story involving both settings.

#14 : Think of a fictional holiday based around some natural event (e.g. the Earth being at its farthest point from the sun, in memory of a volcanic eruption, that time a cloud looked like a rabbit riding a bicycle). Write about how this holiday is celebrated.

#15 : Write a "Just-So" type story about a fictional creature (e.g. "how the dragon got its firebreath" or "how the mudkip got its cheek gills").

body_justsostory

54 Other Writing Prompt Ideas

#1 : Borrow a character from some other form of media (or create your own). Write from that character's perspective.

#2 : Write for and against a non-consequential controversy (e.g., salt vs. pepper, Mac vs. PC, best kind of door).

#3 : Choose an ancestor or a person from the past to write about or to.

#4 : Write a pirate story with a twist.

#5 : Have a character talk about another character and their feelings about that other character.

#6 : Pick a season and think about an event in your life that occurred in that season. Write a creative nonfiction piece about that event and that season.

#7 : Think of something very complicated and long. Write a page about it using short sentences.

#8 : Write a story as a dream.

#9 : Describe around a food without ever directly naming it.

#10 : Write a monologue (one character, talking to the audience/reader) (*not* an inner monologue).

#11 : Begin a story with the phrase, "It only took five seconds to..."

#12 : List five strong emotions. Choosing one, write about a character experiencing that emotion, but only use the character's actions to convey how they are feeling (no outright statements).

#13 : Write a chapter of the memoir of your life.

#14 : Look through the (physical) things you're currently carrying with you or wearing. Write about the memories or emotions tied with each of them.

#15 : Go be in nature. Write drawing your story from your surroundings (both physical, social, and mental/emotional).

body_writinginnature

#16 : Write from the perspective of a bubble (or bubble-like creature).

#17 : A person is jogging along an asphalt road. Write a story.

#18 : Title your story (or poem, or play, etc) "Anti-_____". Fill in the blank and write the story.

#19 : Write something that must include an animal, a mineral, and a vegetable.

#20 : Begin your writing with the phrase, "6 weeks later..."

#21 : List 5-10 office jobs. Pick one of them and describe a person working in that job as if you were a commentator on an Olympic sporting event.

#22 : Practice your poetic imagery: overwrite a description of a character's breakfast routine.

#23 : Write about a character (or group of characters) trying to convince another character to try something they're scared of.

#24 : Keep an eye out in your environment for examples of greengrocer's apostrophes and rogue quotation marks. Pick an example and write about what the misplaced punctuation implies (e.g., we have the "best" meat or we have the best "meat" ).

#25 : Fill in the blank with the first word that comes to mind: "_______ Riot!" Write a newspaper-style article describing the events that that took place.

#26 : Write from the point of view of your most-loved possession. What does it think of you?

#27 : Think of five common sayings (e.g., "An apple a day keeps the doctor away"). Write a horror story whose plot is one of those common sayings.

#28 : Write a scene in which two characters are finally hashing out a long-standing misunderstanding or disagreement.

#29 : You start receiving text messages from an unknown number. Tell the story of what happens next.

#30 : Write one character bragging to another about the story behind their new tattoo.

#31 : Superheroes save the world...but they also leave a lot of destruction in their wake. Write about a normal person in a superhero's world.

#32 : Sometimes, family is who we are related to; sometimes, family is a group of people we gather around ourselves. Write a story about (some of) a character's found family and relatives meeting for the first time.

#33 : Write a story that begins in the middle of the plot's action ( en media res ).

#34 : Everyone says you can never have too much of a good thing. Write a story where that isn't true.

#35 : What do ghosts do when they're not creating mischief? Write about the secret lives of ghosts.

body_secretlivesofghosts

#36 : Every year, you dread the last week of April. Write a story about why.

#37 : Write a story about what it would be like to have an animal sidekick in real life.

#38 : Heists don't just have to be black-clad thieves stealing into vaults to steal rare art or money. Write about a group of people (adults or children) who commit a heist for something of seemingly little monetary value.

#39 : "Life is like a chooseable-path adventure, except you don't get to see what would have happened if you chose differently." Think of a choice you've made and write about a world where you made a different choice.

#40 : Write a story about a secret room.

#41 : You find a message in a bottle with very specific directions. Write a story about the adventure you embark upon.

#42 : "You'll always be okay as long as you know where your _______ is." Fill in the blank and write a story (either fictional or from your life) illustrating this statement.

#43 : Forcing people into prolonged proximity can change and deepen relationships. Write about characters on a road trip together.

#44 : In music, sonata form includes three main parts: exposition, development, and recapitulation. Write a short story that follows this format.

#45 : Begin writing with a character saying, "I'm afraid this simply can't wait."

#46 : Write a story with a happy ending (either happily-ever-after or happy-for-now).

#47 : Write about a character before and after a tragedy in that character's life.

#48 : Choose an object or concept you encounter in everyday life (e.g. tables, the feeling of hot or cold, oxygen) and write an infomercial about it.

#49 : "Life is a series of quests, whether important or mundane." Write about a quest you've gone on (or would like to go on, or will have to go on).

#50 : List 10 different ways to learn. Choose one (or more) and write a story where a character learns something using that one (or more) method.

#51 : You've been called to the principal's office for bad behavior. You know what you did. Explain and justify yourself.

#52 : A character discovers their sibling owns a cursed object. Write about what happens next.

#53 : Write a character description by writing a list of items that would be on a scavenger hunt about them.

#54 : The slogan for a product or service you're advertising is, "Kid-tested, _____." Fill in the blank and write the copy for a radio or podcast advertisement for your product.

body_kidtestedwritingprompt

How to Use Creative Writing Prompts

There's no wrong way to use a creative writing prompt (unless it's to harass and hurt someone)—the point of them is to get you writing and your imagination flowing.

To help you get the most out of these writing prompts, however, we've come up with the six tips below. Try them out!

#1: DON'T Limit Yourself to Prose

Unless you're writing for a particular assignment, there's no reason everything you write in response to a writing prompt has to be prose fiction . Instead of writing your response to a prompt as a story, try writing a poem, nonfiction essay, play, screenplay, or some other format entirely.

#2: DON'T Edit as You Write

The purposes of writing prompts is to get you writing, typos and weird grammar and all. Editing comes later, once you've finished writing and have some space from it to come back to what you wrote.

It's OK to fix things that will make it difficult to read what you've written (e.g., a weird autocorrect that changes the meaning of a sentence), but don't worry too much about typos or perfect grammar when you're writing; those are easy enough to fix in edits . You also can always insert asterisks or a short note as you're writing to remind yourself to go back to fix something (for instance, if as you're writing it seems like you want to move around the order of your paragraphs or insert something earlier).

#3: DO Interpret the Prompt Broadly

The point of using a writing prompt is not to write something that best exemplifies the prompt, but something that sparks your own creativity. Again, unless you're writing in response to an assignment with specific directions, feel free to interpret writing prompts as broadly or as narrowly as you want.

For instance, if your prompt is to write a story that begins with "The stage was set," you could write about anything from someone preparing to put a plan into motion to a literal theatre stage constructed out of pieces of old sets (or something else entirely).

If you're using a writing prompt, it doesn't have to be the first sentence of your story or poem, either; you can also use the prompt as a goal to work towards in your writing.

#4: DO Try Switching Up Your Writing Methods

If it's a possibility for you, see if you write differently in different media. Do you write the same kind of stories by hand as you would typing at a computer? What about if you dictate a story and then transcribe it? Or text it to a friend? Varying the method you use to write can affect the stories you're able to tell.

For example, you may find that it's easier for you to tell stories about your life to a voice recorder than to try to write out a personal essay. Or maybe you have trouble writing poetry, but can easily text yourself or a friend a poem. You might even find you like a writing method you've not tried before better than what you've been doing!

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#5: DO Mix and Match Prompt Ideas

If you need more inspiration, feel free to combine multiple prompts (but don't overwhelm yourself with too much to write about).

You can also try switching genres from what might be suggested in the prompt. For instance, try writing a prompt that seems funny in a serious and sad way, or finding the humor in something that otherwise seems humorless. The categories we've organized the prompts into are by no means limiters on what you're allowed to write about.

#6: DO Try to Write Regularly

The more regularly you write, the easier it will be to write (with or without writing prompts).

For some people, this means writing daily; for others, it means setting aside time to write each weekend or each month. Set yourself an achievable goal (write 2x a week, write 1000 words a month) and stick to it. You can always start small and then ramp your wordcount or frequency up.

If you do better when you have something outside yourself prompting to write, you may also want to try something like morning pages , which encourages you to write at least 750 words every day, in any format (story, diary entry, social media postings, etc).

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What's Next?

Thinking about attending college or grad school for creative writing? Our articles on whether or not you should major in creative writing and the best creative writing programs are there for you! Plus, if you're a high schooler, you should check out these top writing contests .

Creative writing doesn't necessarily have to be fiction. Check out these three examples of narrative writing and our tips for how to write your own narrative stories and essays .

Just as writing prompts can help give form to amorphous creative energy, using specific writing structures or devices can be great starting points for your next story. Read through our discussion of the top 20 poetic devices to know and see if you can work at least one new one into your next writing session.

Still looking for more writing ideas? Try repurposing our 100+ easy drawing ideas for characters, settings, or plot points in your writing.

Laura graduated magna cum laude from Wellesley College with a BA in Music and Psychology, and earned a Master's degree in Composition from the Longy School of Music of Bard College. She scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and GRE and loves advising students on how to excel in high school.

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85 Creative Writing Prompts for Adults

Creative writing prompt ideas

"If you want to write and you want to get ideas, you have to be alert and open to everything.  Everything you read. Everything you listen to. You have to allow these things to inspire you."

Fun creative writing prompts to inspire and educate

These 79 creative writing prompts for adults and teens are designed as story starters to inspire you. They will also help you write on specific topics and develop important skills you need as an author.

A good writing prompt will jump-start your creativity, help you come up with new ideas and may even give you the inspiration you need to write a full story. Feel free to dive straight in without too much thought. Simply choose the topic that appeals to you, pick one at random and start writing.

If you have a novel, screenplay, or other large project you're working on, I recommend using a prompt for 10 minutes before moving onto your main project. This will help get your creative juices flowing. If you don't have an existing project, spend as long as you want on a single prompt, or try a few different ones. Have fun, be free, and trust yourself.

The following prompts also include some for business, if you're looking for writing ideas to help with your content marketing or creating a blog.

Most of these prompts are written about 'you'. If you'd prefer to write them in third person, choose a name, and write them about a fictional character instead.

If you're looking to use these prompts as part of a class, or for a writing group, you might prefer to check out the  Creative Writing Exercises for Adults and Teens  instead. These include 43 group and solo exercises that are 10-15 minutes each, with more detailed instructions. We also have 42 science fiction and fantasy prompts  for those looking for good story ideas with a touch of magic (or technology).

Choose the topic that fires your imagination

Fire your imagination

So you can plunge straight into the topic that most interests you, these writing prompts are split into the following categories:

Overcoming writer's block

  • Creative writing prompts for a young adult audience
  • Creative writing prompts for adults

Expressing emotion

Fantasy and sci-fi prompts

  • Visual prompts for world building
  • Ideas to develop your online business writing

Overcoming writer's block

If you feel blocked, I recommend using one of the following prompts and writing for ten minutes in a stream of consciousness. In The Artist's Way, Julia Cameron recommends you write 3 pages every morning as your 'morning pages'. She calls this, " The bedrock tool of a creative recovery. " 

To write in a stream of consciousness while using a creative writing prompt, simply start writing and don't stop! If you don't know what will happen next, write, "I don't know what will happen next!"  Then write what the options are, why one option might be better than another, etc. This kind of spontaneous creativity is an incredible tool to help move your book or short story forward and to overcome writer's block. If you read back over your stream of consciousness after just ten minutes, you'll find some nuggets of gold in your writing and may have resolved a difficult decision about a particular piece of text.

All authors face a challenge in getting in touch with their creativity from time to time, so don't feel that you're alone.  

Here are the first set of prompts:

  • You're on holiday in a new city and you were walking along talking to a friend, when you suddenly realise they're no longer with you. What happens next?  
  • You have invented a time machine and set off to the time you would most love to visit.  
  • Think of three conflicts - an internal conflict where the protagonist has doubts, an interpersonal conflict with another character, and an external conflict like a natural disaster, physical barrier, or bad weather. Now write a scene that encompasses all three.  
  • You are sitting, reading a list of story writing prompts when a character from your favourite book opens the door and looks at you. They say, "I've been looking for you."  
  • You are a security guard at a secret lair. It's a cold winter's night and there's a foot of snow. You notice a set of footprints leading straight to you, but you could have sworn that they weren't there a moment ago.  
  • What's a flaw that one of your friends has? Imagine if that flaw was exaggerated and create a character around that flaw.  
  • You get a newspaper delivered to your door every morning, then one day it's tomorrow's paper, telling you what will happen today.  
  • Think about a favourite book or movie. What was the character's main goal? Now give that character a different backstory that explains his/her goal.  
  • You are about to fly on a dragon for the very first time.  
  • Everyone has a superpower based on the topography of where they were born (i.e. mountains, deserts, etc.). You are the first person to be born in space. (This prompt, copied from  Reddit , was the inspiration for a novel, that then became the first in a successful book series).

Prompts to help you write for a young adult audience

Two boys working together

These story prompts are ideal for teen authors and for those looking to write for a Young Adult audience.

  • You're at the best party you've ever been to, when your worst enemy walks through the door and heads straight towards you.  
  • One morning you wake up and you can see people's feelings as halos of colour around them. You discover that a friend has been hiding how they feel.  
  • You're playing with a toy car when it comes alive and starts driving around by itself. It can only make car sounds, but you have a feeling it wants you to follow it.  
  • Think of 3 animals. A creature has just entered your room that is a magical combination of these 3 animals.  
  • What's the most exotic place you've ever visited? Your adventure starts there.  
  • A genie grants you three wishes. You wish for an unlimited supply of your favourite food, then for an unlimited supply of your favourite toys. Instead of appearing next to you, they start falling out of the sky. You have one wish left.  
  • Imagine an ant is looking up at you. What would they see?  
  • You're dreaming of flying and when you wake up, you're hovering above your bed.  
  • The internet and all the mobile phones in the world stop working. Choose a character and give them a goal. What happens?  
  • Write about a time when you saw a dark aspect of humanity. How it feel and how did your behaviour change as a result of it?

Writing prompts for adults

Writing prompts for adults

  • You turn up for a job interview, but instead of being offered a job, you are invited to join an illegal activist group who are fighting to right the wrongs in the government.  
  • You have had a crush on Rowan for ages. One night your car breaks down. Cursing that your phone is out of charge, you hitch-hike home and a car pulls over to pick you up. Rowan's driving it and is alone. You get in feeling relieved and delighted, only to discover that Rowan isn't the person you thought.  
  • Write the names of 3 friends or family members who don't know each other. Now describe a scene where the 3 of them meet.  
  • You are a tree and are scared of losing all your leaves. Autumn is fast approaching.  
  • A rhinoceros is charging down a crowded city street.  
  • You have studied hard to be an opera singer. You are opening the show and forget your lines. In desperation, you sing the song to a different opera. The orchestra know it and play along with you. What happens next?  
  • Look at different clues for a murder mystery , then write a unique clue that could be the first hint to set your detective on the trail.  
  • Write a list of seven exotic or dynamic sounding verbs and number them 1 to 7. Now write a list of seven nouns. Now connect them together by joining the first verb with the first noun, the second verb with the second noun, etc. Choose one of the seven verb-noun pairs to create a piece of fiction.  
  • Choose a sport you love and write a scene about a character starting where they are preparing to perform in the Olympics, or another major competition.  
  • Your character discovers that their best friend is a murderer but chooses to keep it a secret. Create a back story that explains why. What happens next?

creative writing prompts for seniors

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart”

Hellen Keller

  • Describe the emotion the woman in the above image is feeling.  
  • You are tired and arguing with your best friend over whose turn it is to wash the dishes. It gets out of hand.  
  • You receive a letter saying, "We would like to publish your novel." How do you react?  
  • What was the last strong emotion you felt? If this emotion was a type of weather, what weather would that be? Now place a character feeling the  opposite  emotion in those weather conditions.  
  • Your teenage daughter gets on the train to go to uni, you wave her off, then stand on the platform as the train pulls away.  
  • Think of an emotion. Now describe how your protagonist's body reacts when they feel this emotion.  
  • Your white friends have just left the supermarket and the security guard ignored them. You're black and as you leave, he demands to see your receipt.  
  • A beautiful rainbow shines in the distance, but the storm is headed your way and you're miles from cover.  
  • Your character takes a drug (medicinal or recreational, you choose) that changes their personality radically, making them feel happy but uncaring. While on it, they decide to end a friendship in a dramatic fashion. Afterwards, they try to rebuild that friendship. Write the conversation that follows.  
  • Three friends arrive at a crossroads. All three want to go in different directions. Create a scene where they argue about where to go. Now rewrite the scene from different points of view. See if you can show different motivations and personalities as you write.

Love Stories

Romance poem

Love comes in many forms and is written about in every genre. It goes beyond romantic love, though romance books are the best-selling genre. As so many people have written about love, it can be a challenge to describe love without sounding cliched. 

Before we get to the prompts, here are some quotes about love to inspire you:

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ― Lao Tzu

“One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving.” ― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” ― William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night's Dream

Now the prompts themselves from 10 different genres.  Choose whichever you feel inspired by! Many of the following say 'poem', but feel free to write a short story or letter if you'd prefer.

  • COMEDY - Choose 2 objects in your house. Write a love poem from one to the other.  
  • ROMANCE - Write a love poem to someone you love.  
  • LGBT+  - Write a scene from the perspective of a transgender teenager about everyday life at high school. Remember that in the modern world, depending on the country, they will encounter both people who support them completely and those who don't, so keep that balance in mind.  
  • SELF-REFLECTION - Write a poem to yourself when you were a child.  
  • SCI-FI - Write a poem from yourself 10 years from now to yourself today.  
  • LEGEND  - Write a poem from the Loch Ness Monster to Nessie, the female monster who also lives in Loch Ness.  
  • HISTORICAL FICTION  - Choose a famous character from history and research if they were married. Write a scene where they disagreed with their partner on a major decision.  
  • ADVENTURE - Write a poem about an amazing adventure in a place you, or your character, loves.  
  • MURDER MYSTERY  - Someone is poisoned in a coffee shop. Write the scene when the detective first arrives.  
  • THRILLER  - Your character wakes to find they are trapped in a dungeon after a first date. Their partner is with them. How do they escape?

What if ideas

Many great story ideas are based on a what if question. What if we're living in a virtual world? What if you gained a spider's abilities when one bit you? What if toys came to life when no-one's there?

Here are some prompts in the form of what if questions. Enjoy!

  • What if plants robustly expressed their opinions?  
  • What if women ruled the world?  
  • What if money became meaningless overnight?  
  • What if you and your friends murdered someone?  
  • What if a news channel gave a fictional story that became reality 24 hours later?  
  • What if you were an alien and had been adopted by humans?  
  • What if food was replaced by 'nutrition pills' to help stop global warming?  
  • What if sound manifested as physical beings?  
  • What if you had a recurring dream about someone, then you met them in real life?  
  • What if characters from history started to appear alive and well in a small town?

Fantasy and sci-fi ideas

  • Bored with your immortal existence, you are gathered with your godly friends to create the ultimate virtual reality game ever. A game you have called 'Earth', but just as your first friend enters the game you realise that the game has a terrible flaw.  
  • You are an orc who wants to do good. You have fled your hometown and arrive at a human village wondering whether you will be welcome.  
  • You character is approaching a castle. What unusual reason do they have to be there? What do they say to the two guards standing outside it?  
  • Evil narcists rule the world, but a wizard is determined to stop them by wiping their memory and the memory of everyone who knew them. This allows them to safely re-enter society. You have just found one of your old diaries and discovered that you were once a warlord who commit terrible evil.  
  • A war between the vampires and werewolves has been going on for centuries in ancient Europe, but you have just found a way to turn the battle. If a werewolf eats garlic, they remain human. You're about to spread a false rumour that will change history and give vampires the advantage forever.  
  • You are an alien visiting Earth and chose to assume an anonymous form as a dog. Now someone wants to adopt you.  
  • Gravity has just reversed itself.  
  • A wish generator fulfils a wish every time you touch it, but the wish it fulfils isn't your own.  
  • Look around you and imagine that an object, plant or piece of furniture you can see is enormous. Decide what this object means to a character. Your character is walking towards it.  
  • Imagine a fantasy world where there is one type of magic. What knock on repercussions does this have on daily life? Write a scene showing this.

If you enjoy this genre, then you can discover more sci-fi and fantasy creative writing prompts . These focus on world building, creating exotic characters and developing plots with an out of this world element.

Visual writing prompts for world building

Sometimes an image can be more of a prompt than words. As it's a different medium, it allows you complete freedom to choose how to write about it. Here are 4 visual writing prompts to help with your world building, along with a suggestion of how to use them for each.

  • You've entered this room for the first time. Decide what your purpose was in entering it, then start writing.

World building

  • Imagine a conversation is occurring here between people who work here all the time. Write the conversation, setting the room as the background.

Internet servers

  • I find the following image so evocative, it shouldn't need a prompt to go with it!

Visual writing prompt

  • Who lives here? Write their story.

World building - the house

As well as visual writing prompts, you can come up with good story ideas using musical writing prompts. Simply take the name of any song below and write a story from it. Focus on sounds in your writing.

Beatles songs

Ideas to develop your online business writing

Non-fiction writing prompts

  • Mix work and pleasure! Write about something you love to do as a hobby in the style of writing that you do for your work. A sales pitch about your favourite holiday destination, or an analysis of the last board game you played, for example.  
  • Choose a product you recently bought from the supermarket and see if you can sell it in 160 characters or less. This is useful if you're writing Meta Descriptions for a web page.  
  • If you had to choose a single issue that determined how you would vote in every future election, what issue would it be? Why?  
  • Write a short review of your favourite movie and a movie you hated.  
  • Write a short autobiography of your life in the form of an interview, where paragraphs alternate between question and answer.  
  • Choose a random article on Wikipedia and write a press release to promote it.  

Google - People also ask

  • What is your favourite book set in a fictional universe? Write a tourist's guide to one area of that universe.  
  • What was a favourite toy you had as a child? What appealed to you about it? Write a sales blurb for that product with you as the target audience.  
  • Find a page selling a toy you loved as a kid. Now rewrite that page as if it was a product designed for adults.

To discover more creative writing prompts, please click the image below.

Creative writing exercises

Creative writing games

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TheHighSchooler

20 Writing Prompts For High School Seniors [PDF Included]

Hello, high school seniors! Are you struggling to come up with ideas for your next writing assignment? Do you find yourself staring at a blank page, feeling uninspired and unmotivated?  

Well, fear not! We have compiled a list of writing prompts that will help kickstart your creativity and get those words flowing. Today’s high school students have to engage in a lot of writing, particularly in their academic settings. And the only way to get better at it is through continuous practice.

Writing skills are bound to improve with a daily writing habit. Whether you’re a budding novelist, a poet, or a nonfiction writer, these prompts will spark your imagination and give you the inspiration you need to write your next masterpiece. So grab your favorite pen or laptop and let’s get started!

Writing prompts for high school seniors

  • Write a letter to yourself in middle school. What would you want them to know?
  • Write an essay about what role technology plays in your life
  • Write a story about how peer pressure affects all of the characters in the story
  • Select your favorite song lyric and turn it into a poem
  • Write an ode to your favorite subject in high school
  • What is the state of the globe now that global warming has reached its worst point?
  • Write a poem including something from each year of high school
  • What is trending on social media currently and what are your views regarding it?
  • What will you miss the most about high school?
  • Write an ode to your high school friends. 
  • Reflect on a defining moment in your high school career and how it shaped you as a person.
  • Write about a challenge you faced during high school and how you overcame it.
  • Imagine that you are giving a graduation speech to your peers. What advice would you give them as they embark on the next phase of their lives?
  • Write about a person who has had a significant impact on your life and why they are important to you.
  • Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision and how you came to that decision.
  • Write about a skill or talent that you developed during high school and how it has helped you grow as a person.
  • Imagine that you have the opportunity to travel back in time and give advice to your freshman self. What would you say?
  • Write about a book, movie, or song that has had a profound impact on your life and why it is meaningful to you.
  • Reflect on a time when you had to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. What did you learn from the experience?
  • Imagine that you are interviewing for your dream job. What skills and experiences have you gained in high school that make you a strong candidate?

Writing Prompts For High School Seniors

Transforming your writing from meh to marvelous: Tips and strategies for high schoolers

Writing can be a daunting task, like a high-stakes game of Jenga where one wrong move could send everything crashing down. But fear not, my fellow word-wielders! With a few tips and strategies, you can stack your ideas into a towering masterpiece without breaking a sweat.

From brainstorming to editing, it’s all about finding the right balance and not being afraid to take risks. So grab your pen (or keyboard) and let’s dive into the wild world of writing! 

  • Start with a plan: Before you begin writing, take a few minutes to brainstorm and outline your ideas. This will help you organize your thoughts and make sure your writing stays on track.
  • Be concise: High schoolers often have a tendency to be wordy in their writing. Try to be as clear and concise as possible, and avoid using unnecessary words or phrases.
  • Use active voice: Active voice makes your writing more engaging and direct. Instead of saying “the ball was thrown by John,” say “John threw the ball.”
  • Use strong verbs and adjectives: Using strong verbs and adjectives can help make your writing more vivid and engaging. Instead of saying “the car was fast,” say “the car zoomed down the road.”
  • Edit your work: Take the time to review your writing and make sure it is free from errors. Read your work aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or grammar mistakes.
  • Get feedback: Share your writing with others and ask for feedback. This can help you identify areas where you can improve and make your writing stronger.
  • Read widely: Reading widely can help you develop your writing skills by exposing you to different writing styles and techniques. Make a habit of reading regularly, both for pleasure and for academic purposes.
  • Practice, practice, practice: Writing is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. Set aside time each day to write, even if it’s just for a few minutes. The more you write, the better you will become.

Furthermore, high schoolers can also be indulged in some creative writing activities , to help them facilely sail through the turbulent waters of high school.

Writing prompts can be an excellent tool for high school seniors to enhance their writing skills and discover their unique writing styles. Writing prompts can be used for personal expression, college applications, scholarships, and even future careers. By practicing writing prompts, students can build their confidence and writing abilities, which can benefit them in various aspects of life.

Writing is an essential skill that can never be overlooked, and it is critical to learn how to express oneself in writing effectively. So, high school seniors, embrace the power of writing prompts and creative writing topics , and who knows, you might end up discovering your passion for writing and becoming the next great author, journalist, or blogger. Happy writing!

creative writing prompts for seniors

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

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Simple journal prompts for caregivers and seniors to enjoy the benefits of writing

sharon greenthal writer

You may choose to use a notebook , a pad of paper, a Word doc, or even a series of texts you send yourself. But however you choose to journal, it will benefit you as a caregiver. Journaling is also a wonderful idea for seniors to keep track of their daily activities, thoughts and feelings, and – perhaps most important for many older adults – their memories. 

James Pennebaker , PhD, a psychologist and expert in expressive writing , said journaling strengthens the immune system and helps to prevent illness. He also said that journaling reduces depression and anxiety and can help with successful social interaction and increased satisfaction with close relationships. 

“We know from multiple studies that there are enhancements in immune function, drops in blood pressure, improvements in sleep, and drops in other markers of stress,” he said. “Other studies find faster wound healing , greater mobility among people with arthritis , and the list goes on .”

Journaling is a good activity for caregivers and older adults to do together. Schedule time a few days a week to sit quietly and write for a set length of time–start with 20 minutes. Some enjoy journaling in different colors , doodling pictures or making lists, while others write in complete sentences and have a beginning, middle and end for each entry. The only rule for journaling is to do what makes you feel good , what holds your interest and will keep you coming back regularly to journal again and again.

10 journaling prompts for caregivers

These prompts will get you started if you want your journaling to focus on your caregiving. Remember to be completely honest in your journal. No one will read it except you, and to get the most benefit out of journaling, you must be truthful with yourself. 

  • What’s something you would like to do better as a caregiver?
  • How did you make a difference in your loved one’s life today?
  • What did (or will) you do today to pamper yourself?
  • What’s your favorite thing about caregiving?
  • What’s the hardest thing about caregiving?
  • What could you do to make your job easier?
  • What could others do to help you make your job easier?
  • What were you most grateful for today?
  • What makes you feel anxious or concerned as a caregiver?
  • What do you wish others knew about your job as a caregiver?

10 journaling prompts for older adults

Journaling is an excellent way to rekindle the creative side that may have gotten lost in the day-to-day tasks of living for older adults. For some people, journaling is the first time they put pen to paper – or fingers to keyboard – to write creatively or personally. 

Whatever your senior’s experience with writing, journaling or other activities they do to keep their mind healthy and active, having a list of prompts on hand for their journaling will make it easier for them to get going with their writing. Let them know they don’t have to share anything they write unless they want to, and if they do choose to let you read what they write (or listen to them read it aloud), don’t critique their words, spelling or grammar. What’s important is they express themselves, and even better if they trust you with their writing.

  • What’s your favorite way to spend the day?
  • When do you feel happiest?
  • What current event or issue do you feel very strongly about?
  • What words of wisdom would you tell your 16-year-old self?
  • What advice would you give to your children and grandchildren?
  • When in your life did you feel most proud?
  • Where was your favorite place you lived?
  • Have you ever done something you were told you couldn’t do?
  • Who have been the most important people in your life?
  • When in your life were you most content? 
  • Who was your first love?

10 journaling prompts to do together

A fun way to get to know each other better is for you and your senior to do some journaling together. Use the same prompt, write for 15 minutes, and then share what you’ve written. You may find similarities in how you think, feel or experience the world you didn’t know you shared. 

  • List 25 things that bring you joy. 
  • What’s a recurring dream you have?
  • If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it include?
  • The best place I’ve ever traveled to is…
  • You can invite four characters from TV shows to dinner. Who are they, and why did you choose them?
  • If you could spend a day with a loved one who has died, who would it be, and what would you talk about?
  • What are your top five favorite movies, songs, TV shows and books?
  • If you could have one talent and be famous for it, what would it be, and how would you use it to make the world a better place?
  • What is the best thing about you? How has it impacted your life?
  • What would you do with it if you were given $1 million but had to give it all away?

Journaling can open up conversations between you and your older adult; it can be a private way for each of you to understand yourselves, let out your emotions, frustrations and needs, or simply give you both the chance to have a little fun every day. 

sharon greenthal writer

Sharon Greenthal is a freelance writer who has covered a wide variety of topics during her career, ranging from empty-nesting to eldercare. Sharon has been published on many websites including AARP, Angie's List, HuffPost, Next Avenue and others. Sharon has been married for 32 years, and she has a son and daughter – both grown and flown. You can read more from Sharon on her website.

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ThinkWritten

365 Creative Writing Prompts

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Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to help inspire you to write every single day! Use them for journaling, story starters, poetry, and more!

365 creative writing prompts

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Sharing is caring!

If you want to become a better writer, the best thing you can do is practice writing every single day. Writing prompts are useful because we know sometimes it can be hard to think of what to write about!

To help you brainstorm, we put together this list of 365 creative writing prompts to give you something to write about daily.

Want to Download these prompts?  I am super excited to announce due to popular demand we now have an ad-free printable version of this list of writing prompts available for just $5. The  printable version  includes a PDF as a list AND print-ready prompt cards. {And all the design source files you could ever need to customize any way you would like!}

Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire:

Whether you write short stories, poems, or like to keep a journal – these will stretch your imagination and give you some ideas for topics to write about!

1. Outside the Window : What’s the weather outside your window doing right now? If that’s not inspiring, what’s the weather like somewhere you wish you could be?

2. The Unrequited love poem: How do you feel when you love someone who does not love you back?

3. The Vessel: Write about a ship or other vehicle that can take you somewhere different from where you are now.

4. Dancing: Who’s dancing and why are they tapping those toes?

5. Food: What’s for breakfast? Dinner? Lunch? Or maybe you could write a poem about that time you met a friend at a cafe.

6. Eye Contact: Write about two people seeing each other for the first time.

7. The Rocket-ship: Write about a rocket-ship on its way to the moon or a distant galaxy far, far, away.

rocket ship writing prompt

8. Dream-catcher : Write something inspired by a recent dream you had.

9. Animals: Choose an animal. Write about it!

10. Friendship: Write about being friends with someone.

11. Dragon : Envision a dragon. Do you battle him? Or is the dragon friendly? Use descriptive language.

12. Greeting : Write a story or poem that starts with the word “hello” or another greeting.

13. The Letter: Write a poem or story using words from a famous letter or inspired by a letter someone sent you.

14. The Found Poem : Read a book and circle some words on a page. Use those words to craft a poem. Alternatively, you can cut out words and phrases from magazines.

15. Eavesdropper : Create a poem, short story, or journal entry about a conversation you’ve overheard.

16. Addict: Everyone’s addicted to something in some shape or form. What are things you can’t go without?

17. Dictionary Definition : Open up a dictionary to a random word. Define what that word means to you.

dictionary success

18. Cleaning: Hey, even writers and creative artists have to do housework sometimes. Write about doing laundry, dishes, and other cleaning activities.

19. Great Minds: Write  about someone you admire and you thought to have had a beautiful mind.

20. Missed Connections: If you go to Craigslist, there is a “Missed Connections” section where you can find some interesting storylines to inspire your writing.

21. Foreclosure : Write a poem or short story about someone who has lost or is about to lose their home.

22. Smoke, Fog, and Haze: Write about not being able to see ahead of you.

23. Sugar: Write something so sweet, it makes your teeth hurt.

24. Numbers:  Write a poem or journal entry about numbers that have special meaning to you.

25. Dread: Write about doing something you don’t want to do.

26. Fear: What scares you a little? What do you feel when scared? How do you react?

27. Closed Doors: What’s behind the door? Why is it closed?

creative writing prompts for seniors

28. Shadow: Imagine you are someone’s shadow for a day.

29. Good Vibes: What makes you smile? What makes you happy?

30. Shopping:  Write about your shopping wishlist and how you like to spend money.

31. The Professor: Write about a teacher that has influenced you.

32. Rewrite : Take any poem or short story you enjoy. Rewrite it in your own words.

33. Jewelry: Write about a piece of jewelry. Who does it belong to?

34. Sounds : Sit outside for about an hour. Write down the sounds you hear.

35. War and Peace: Write about a recent conflict that you dealt with in your life.

36. Frame It: Write a poem or some phrases that would make for good wall art in your home.

37. Puzzle: Write about putting together the pieces of puzzles.

38. Fire-starters: Write about building a fire.

39. Coffee & Tea: Surely you drink one or the other or know someone who does- write about it!

40. Car Keys: Write about someone getting their driver’s license for the first time.

41. What You Don’t Know: Write about a secret you’ve kept from someone else or how you feel when you know someone is keeping a secret from you.

42. Warehouse : Write about being inside an old abandoned warehouse.

warehouse writing prompt

43. The Sound of Silence: Write about staying quiet when you feel like shouting.

44. Insult: Write about being insulted. How do you feel? Why do you think the other person insulted you?

45. Mirror, Mirror: What if you mirror started talking to you? What might the mirror say?

46. Dirty: Write a poem about getting covered in mud.

47. Light Switch : Write about coming out of the dark and seeing the light.

48. The Stars : Take inspiration from a night sky. Or, write about a time when “the stars aligned” in your horoscope.

writing prompt star idea

49. Joke Poem : What did the wall say to the other wall? Meet you at the corner! Write something inspired by a favorite joke.

50. Just Say No : Write about the power you felt when you told someone no.

51: Sunrise/Sunset : The sun comes up, the sun goes down. It goes round and round. Write something inspiring about the sunrise or sunset.

52. Memory Lane : What does Memory Lane look like? How do you get there?

53. Tear-Jerker : Watch a movie that makes you cry. Write about that scene in the movie.

54. Dear Diary: Write a poem or short story about a diary entry you’ve read or imagined.

55. Holding Hands : The first time you held someone’s hand.

56. Photograph : Write a story or journal entry influenced by a photograph you see online or in a magazine.

57. Alarm Clock: Write about waking up.

58. Darkness: Write a poem or journal entry inspired by what you can’t see.

59. Refreshed: Write a poem about a time you really felt refreshed and renewed. Maybe it was a dip into a pool on a hot summer day, a drink of lemonade, or other situation that helped you relax and start again.

60. Handle With Care : Write about a very fragile or delicate object.

61. Drama: Write about a time when you got stuck in between two parties fighting with each other.

62. Slip Up: Write about making mistakes.

63. Spice: Write about flavors and tastes or a favorite spice of yours.

64. Sing a New Song: Take a popular song off the radio and rewrite it as a poem in your own words.

65. Telephone: Write about a phone call you recently received.

66. Name: Write a poem or short story using your name in some way or form.

67. Dollhouse: Write a poem or short story from the viewpoint of someone living in a doll house.

68. Random Wikipedia Article : Go to Wikipedia and click on Random Article . Write about whatever the page you get.

69. Silly Sports: Write about an extreme or silly sport. If none inspire you, make up the rules for your own game.

70. Recipe : Write about a recipe for something abstract, such as a feeling.

71. Famous Artwork: Choose a famous painting and write about it.

72. Where That Place Used to Be : Think of a place you went to when you were younger but it now no longer there or is something else. Capture your feelings about this in your writing.

73. Last Person You Talked to: Write a quick little poem or story about the last person you spoke with.

74. Caught Red-Handed: Write about being caught doing something embarrassing.

75. Interview: Write a list of questions you have for someone you would like to interview, real or fictional.

76. Missing You: Write about someone you miss dearly.

77. Geography: Pick a state or country you’ve never visited. Write about why you would or would not like to visit that place.

geography writing prompt

78. Random Song: Turn on the radio, use the shuffle feature on your music collection or your favorite streaming music service. Write something inspired by the first song you hear.

79. Hero: Write a tribute to someone you regard as a hero.

80. Ode to Strangers: Go people watching and write an ode to a stranger you see on the street.

81. Advertisement: Advertisements are everywhere, aren’t they? Write using the slogan or line from an ad.

82. Book Inspired: Think of your favorite book. Now write a poem that sums up the entire story in 10 lines.

83. Magic : Imagine you have a touch of magic, and can make impossible things happen. What would you do?

84. Fanciest Pen: Get out your favorite pen, pencils, or even colored markers and write using them!

85. A Day in the Life: Write about your daily habits and routine.

86. Your Muse: Write about your muse – what do they look like? What does your muse do to inspire you?

87. Convenience Store : Write about an experience you’ve had at a gas station or convenience store.

88. Natural Wonders of the World: Choose one of the natural wonders of the world. Write about it.

89. Status Update: Write a poem using the words from your latest status update or a friend’s status update. If you don’t use sites like Facebook or Twitter, you can often search online for some funny ones to use as inspiration.

90. Green Thumb: Write about growing something.

91. Family Heirloom: Write about an object that’s been passed through the generations in your family.

92. Bug Catcher: Write about insects.

93. Potion: Write about a magic potion. What is it made of? What does it do? What is the antidote?

94. Swinging & Sliding: Write something inspired by a playground or treehouse.

95. Adjectives: Make a list of the first 5 adjectives that pop into your head. Use these 5 words in your story, poem, or journal entry.

96. Fairy Tales: Rewrite a fairy tale. Give it a new ending or make it modern or write as a poem.

97. Whispers: Write about someone who has to whisper a secret to someone else.

98. Smile: Write a poem about the things that make you smile.

99. Seasonal: Write about your favorite season.

100.  Normal: What does normal mean to you? Is it good or bad to be normal?

101. Recycle : Take something you’ve written in the past and rewrite it into a completely different piece.

102. Wardrobe: Write about a fashion model or what’s currently in your closet or drawers.

103. Secret Message : Write something with a secret message hidden in between the words. For example, you could make an acrostic poem using the last letters of the word or use secret code words in the poem.

104. Vacation: Write about a vacation you took.

105. Heat: Write about being overheated and sweltering.

106. Spellbinding: Write a magic spell.

107. Collection : Write about collecting something, such as salt shakers, sea shells, or stamps.

108. Taking Chances: Everyone takes a risk at some point in their life. Write about a time when you took a chance and what the result was.

109. Carnival: Write a poem or story or journal entry inspired by a carnival or street fair.

110. Country Mouse: Write about someone who grew up in the country visiting the city for the first time.

111: Questions: Write about questions you have for the universe. Optional: include an answer key.

112. Rushing: Write about moving quickly and doing things fast.

113. Staircase : Use a photo of a staircase or the stairs in your home or a building you love to inspire you.

114. Neighbors: Make up a story or poem about your next door neighbor.

115. Black and Blue: Write about a time you’ve been physically hurt.

116. All Saints: Choose a saint and create a poem about his or her life.

117. Beach Inspired: What’s not to write about the beach?

118. Shoes: What kind of shoes do you wear? Where do they lead your feet?

119. The Ex: Write a poem to someone who is estranged from you.

120. My Point of View: Write in the first person point of view.

121. Stray Animal: Think of the life of a stray cat or dog and write about that.

122. Stop and Stare : Create a poem or story about something you could watch forever.

123. Your Bed: Describe where you sleep each night.

124. Fireworks : Do they inspire you or do you not like the noise and commotion? Write about it.

125. Frozen: Write about a moment in your life you wish you could freeze and preserve.

126. Alone : Do you like to be alone or do you like having company?

127. Know-it-all: Write about something you are very knowledgeable about, for example a favorite hobby or passion of yours.

128. The Promise: Write about a promise you’ve made to someone. Did you keep that promise?

129. Commotion: Write about being overstimulated by a lot of chaos.

130. Read the News Today : Construct a poem or story using a news headline for your first line.

131. Macro: Write a description of an object close-up.

132. Transportation : Write about taking your favorite (or least-favorite) form of transportation.

133. Gadgets: If you could invent a gadget, what would it do? Are there any gadgets that make your life easier?

134: Bring on the Cheese: Write a tacky love poem that is so cheesy, it belongs on top of a pizza.

135. Ladders: Write a story or poem that uses ladders as a symbol.

136. Bizarre Holiday : There is a bizarre holiday for any date! Look up a holiday for today’s date and create a poem in greeting card fashion or write a short story about the holiday to celebrate.

137. Blog-o-sphere : Visit your favorite blog or your feedreader and craft a story, journal entry, or poem based on the latest blog post you read.

138. Mailbox: Create a poem, short story, or journal entry based on a recent item of mail you’ve received.

139. Sharing : Write about sharing something with someone else.

140. Cactus: Write from the viewpoint of a cactus. What’s it like to live in the desert or have a prickly personality?

141. It’s a Sign : Have you seen any interesting road signs lately?

142. Furniture: Write about a piece of furniture in your home.

143. Failure: Write about a time you failed at something. Did you try again or give up completely?

144. Mystical Creatures: Angels or other mystical creatures – use them as inspiration.

145. Flying: Write about having wings and what you would do.

146. Clear and Transparent: Write a poem about being able to see-through something.

147. Break the Silence : Record yourself speaking, then write down what you spoke and revise into a short story or poem.

148. Beat: Listen to music with a strong rhythm or listen to drum loops. Write something that goes along with the beat you feel and hear.

149. Color Palette: Search online for color palettes and be inspired to write by one you resonate with.

150. Magazine: Randomly flip to a page in a magazine and write using the first few words you see as an opening line.

151. The Grass is Greener : Write about switching the place with someone or going to where it seems the “grass is greener”.

152. Mind & Body: Write something that would motivate others to workout and exercise.

153. Shaping Up : Write something that makes a shape on the page…ie: a circle, a heart, a square, etc.

154. Twenty-One: Write about your 21st birthday.

155. Aromatherapy: Write about scents you just absolutely love.

156. Swish, Buzz, Pop : Create a poem that uses Onomatopoeia .

157. What Time is It? Write about the time of day it is right now. What are people doing? What do you usually do at this time each day?

158. Party Animal: Have you ever gone to a party you didn’t want to leave? Or do you hate parties? Write about it!

159: Miss Manners : Use the words “please” and “thank you” in your writing.

160. Cliche: Choose a common cliche, then write something that says the same thing but without using the catch phrase.

161. Eco-friendly : Write about going green or an environmental concern you have.

162. Missing You: Write about someone you miss.

163. Set it Free: Think of a time when you had to let someone or something go to be free…did they come back?

164: Left Out : Write about a time when you’ve felt left out or you’ve noticed someone else feeling as if they didn’t belong.

165. Suitcase: Write about packing for a trip or unpacking from when you arrive home.

creative writing prompts for seniors

166. Fantasy : Write about fairies, gnomes, elves, or other mythical creatures.

167. Give and Receive : Write about giving and receiving.

168. Baker’s Dozen: Imagine the scents and sights of a bakery and write.

169. Treehouse: Write about your own secret treehouse hideaway.

170.  Risk: Write about taking a gamble on something.

171. Acrostic : Choose a word and write an acrostic poem where every line starts with a letter from the word.

172. Crossword Puzzle: Open up the newspaper or find a crossword puzzle online and choose one of the clues to use as inspiration for your writing.

173. Silver Lining : Write about the good that happens in a bad situation.

174. Gloves: Write about a pair of gloves – what kind of gloves are they? Who wears them and why?

175. All that Glitters: Write about a shiny object.

176. Jealousy: Write with a theme of envy and jealousy.

Want to Download these prompts?  I am super excited to announce due to popular demand we now have an ad-free printable version of this list of writing prompts available for just $5. The  printable version  includes a PDF as a list AND print-ready prompt cards. {And all the design source files you could ever need to customize any way you would like!}

177. How Does Your Garden Grow? Write about a flower that grows in an unusual place.

178. Jury Duty : Write a short story or poem that takes place in a courtroom.

179. Gifts: Write about a gift you have given or received.

180. Running: Write about running away from someone or something.

181. Discovery: Think of something you’ve recently discovered and use it as inspiration.

182. Complain:  Write about your complaints about something.

183. Gratitude: Write a poem or journal entry that is all about things you are thankful for.

184. Chemistry: Choose an element and write a poem or story that uses that word in one of the lines.

185. Applause: Write about giving someone a standing ovation.

186. Old Endings Into New Beginnings:  Take an old poem, story, or journal entry of yours and use the last line and make it the first line of your writing today.

187. Longing: Write  about something you very much want to do.

188. I Am: Write a motivational poem or journal entry about positive traits that make you who you are.

189. Rainbow : What is at the end of a rainbow? Or, take a cue from Kermit the Frog, and ask yourself, why are there so many songs about rainbows?

end of the rainbow writing idea

190. Museum: Take some time to visit a nearby museum with your journal. Write about one of the pieces that speaks to you.

191. Cartoon: Think of your favorite cartoon or comic. Write a poem or story that takes place in that setting.

192. Copycat: Borrow a line from a famous public domain poem to craft your own.

193. From the Roof-tops:  Imagine you could stand on a rooftop and broadcast a message to everyone below – what would you say?

194. Time Travel: If there was a time period you could visit for a day, where would you go? Write about traveling back in time to that day.

195. Changing Places: Imagine living the day as someone else.

196. Neighborhood: Write about your favorite place in your neighborhood to visit and hang out at.

197. Pirates: Write about a pirate ship.

198. Interview : Write based on a recent interview you’ve read or seen on TV or heard on the radio.

199.  Hiding Spaces : Write about places you like to hide things at. What was a favorite hiding spot for you as a child playing hide-and-seek?

200. Extreme Makeover: Imagine how life might be different if you could change your hair color or clothing into something completely opposite from your current style.

201. Empathy: Write about your feelings of empathy or compassion for another person.

202. Opposites: Write a poem or story that ties in together two opposites.

203. Boredom: Write about being bored or make a list of different ways to entertain yourself.

204. Strength : Think of a time when you’ve been physically or emotionally strong and use that as inspiration.

205. Hunger: Write from the perspective of someone with no money to buy food.

206. Greed: Write about someone who always wants more – whether it be money, power, etc. etc.

207. Volcano: Write about an eruption of a volcano.

208. Video Inspiration : Go to Vimeo.com or YouTube.com and watch one of the videos featured on the homepage. Write something based on what you watch.

209. Sneeze: Write about things that make you sneeze.

210. Footsteps on the Moon:  Write about the possibility of life in outer-space.

211: Star-crossed: Write a short modern version of the story of Romeo and Juliet or think of real-life examples of lovers who are not allowed to be together to use as inspiration for your writing.

212. Font-tastic: Choose a unique font and type out a poem, story or journal entry using that font.

213. Schedule: Take a look at your calendar and use the schedule for inspiration in writing.

214. Grandparents: Write about a moment in your grandparent’s life.

215. Collage: Go through a magazine and cut out words that grab your attention. Use these words to construct a poem or as a story starter or inspiration for your journal.

216. Oh so Lonely: Write a poem about what you do when you are alone – do you feel lonely or do you enjoy your own company?

217. Waterfall: Think of a waterfall you’ve seen in person or spend some time browsing photos of waterfalls online. Write about the movement, flow, and energy.

218. First Kiss: Write about your first kiss.

219. So Ironic: Write about an ironic situation you’ve been in throughout your life.

220. Limerick: Write a limerick today.

221. Grocery Shopping: Write about an experience at the grocery store.

daily writing prompt ideas

222. Fashion : Go through a fashion magazine or browse fashion websites online and write about a style you love.

223. So Close: Write about coming close to reaching a goal.

224. Drinks on Me: Write a poem or short story that takes place at a bar.

225. Online Friends: Write an ode to someone online you’ve met and become friends with.

226. Admiration: Is there someone you admire? Write about those feelings.

227. Trash Day: Write from the perspective of a garbage collector.

228. Mailbox: Open your mailbox and write something inspired by one of the pieces of mail you received.

229. Fresh & Clean: Write about how you feel after you take a shower.

230. Energized: Write about how you feel when you’re either at a high or low energy level for the day.

231. Rhyme & No Reason: Make up a silly rhyming poem using made up words.

232. Tech Support: Use computers or a conversation with tech support you’ve had as inspiration.

233. Hotel: Write from the perspective of someone who works at a hotel or staying at a hotel.

234. Underwater: Write about sea creatures and under water life. What’s under the surface of the ocean? What adventures might be waiting?

underwater life picture

235. Breathing: Take a few minutes to do some deep breathing relaxation techniques. Once your mind is clear, just write the first few things that you think of.

236. Liar, Liar: Make up a poem or story of complete lies about yourself or someone else.

237. Obituaries: Look at the recent obituaries online or in the newspaper and imagine the life of someone and write about that person.

238. Pocket: Rummage through your pockets and write about what you keep or find in your pockets.

239. Cinquain: Write a cinquain poem, which consists of 5 lines that do not rhyme.

240. Alphabetical: Write a poem that has every letter of the alphabet in it.

241.  Comedy Club: Write something inspired by a comedian.

242. Cheater: Write about someone who is unfaithful.

243. Sestina: Give a try to writing a sestina poem.

244. Fight: Write about witnessing two people get in an argument with each other.

245. Social Network : Visit your favorite Social Networking website (ie: Facebook, Pinterest, Google, Twitter, etc.) and write a about a post you see there.

246. Peaceful: Write about something peaceful and serene.

247. In the Clouds: Go cloud watching for the day and write about what you imagine in the clouds.

248. At the Park: Take some time to sit on a park bench and write about the sights, scenes, and senses and emotions you experience.

249. Sonnet: Write a sonnet today.

250. Should, Would, And Could: Write a poem or story using the words should, would, and could.

251. How to: Write directions on how to do something.

252. Alliteration: Use alliteration in your poem or in a sentence in a story.

253. Poker Face: Write about playing a card game.

254. Timer: Set a timer for 5 minutes and just write. Don’t worry about it making sense or being perfect.

255. Dance: Write about a dancer or a time you remember dancing.

256. Write for a Cause: Write a poem or essay that raises awareness for a cause you support.

257. Magic : Write about a magician or magic trick.

258. Out of the Box: Imagine finding a box. Write about opening it and what’s inside.

259. Under the Influence: What is something has impacted you positively in your life?

260. Forgotten Toy : Write from the perspective a forgotten or lost toy.

261. Rocks and Gems: Write about a rock or gemstone meaning.

262. Remote Control: Imagine you can fast forward and rewind your life with a remote control.

263. Symbolism: Think of objects, animals, etc. that have symbolic meaning to you. Write about it.

264. Light at the End of the Tunnel: Write about a time when you saw hope when it seemed like a hopeless situation.

265. Smoke and Fire : “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Use this saying as inspiration to write!

266. Railroad: Write about a train and its cargo or passengers.

creative writing prompts for seniors

267. Clipboard: Write about words you imagine on an office clipboard.

268. Shipwrecked: Write about being stranded somewhere – an island, a bus stop, etc.

269. Quotable: Use a popular quote from a speaker and use it as inspiration for your writing.

270. Mind   Map it Out: Create a mind map of words, phrases, and ideas that pop into your head or spend some time browsing the many mind maps online. Write a poem, story, or journal entry inspired by the mind map.

271. Patterns : Write about repeating patterns that occur in life.

272. Scrapbook : Write about finding a scrapbook and the memories it contains.

273. Cure: Write about finding a cure for an illness.

274. Email Subject Lines: Read your email today and look for subject lines that may be good starters for writing inspiration.

275. Wishful Thinking: Write about a wish you have.

276. Doodle : Spend some time today doodling for about 5-10 minutes. Write about the thoughts you had while doodling or create something inspired by your finished doodle.

277. Chalkboard: Imagine you are in a classroom. What does it say on the chalkboard?

278. Sticky: Imagine a situation that’s very sticky, maybe even covered in maple syrup, tape or glue. Write about it!

279. Flashlight : Imagine going somewhere very dark with only a flashlight to guide you.

280. A Far Away Place : Envision yourself traveling to a fictional place, what do you experience in your imaginary journey?

281. On the Farm : Write about being in a country or rural setting.

282. Promise to Yourself: Write about a promise you want to make to yourself and keep.

283. Brick Wall : Write a poem that is about a brick wall – whether literal or figurative.

284. Making a Choice: Write about a time when you had to make a difficult choice.

285.  Repeat: Write about a time when you’ve had to repeat yourself or a time when it felt like no one was listening.

286. Outcast : Write about someone who is not accepted by their peers. (for example, the Ugly Ducking)

287. Scary Monsters: Write about a scary (or not-so-scary) monster in your closet or under the bed.

288. Sacrifice: Write about something you’ve sacrificed doing to do something else or help another person.

289. Imperfection: Create a poem that highlights the beauty in being flawed.

290. Birthday Poem: Write a poem inspired by birthdays.

291. Title First : Make a list of potential poem or story titles and choose one to write from.

292. Job Interview : Write about going on a job interview.

293. Get Well : Write a poem that will help someone who is sick feel better quick!

294. Lost in the Crowd: Write about feeling lost in the crowd.

295. Apple a Day: Write about a health topic that interests you.

296. Cravings: Write about craving something.

297. Phobia: Research some common phobias, choose one, and write about it.

298. In the Moment: Write about living in the present moment.

299. Concrete : Write about walking down a sidewalk and what you see and experience.

300. Battle: Write about an epic battle, whether real, fictional or figurative.

301. This Old House : Write about an old house that is abandoned or being renovated.

302. Clutter: Is there a cluttered spot in your home? Go through some of that clutter today and write about what you find or the process of organizing.

303. Go Fly a Kite: Write about flying a kite.

304. On the TV: Flip to a random TV channel and write about the first thing that comes on – even if it is an infomercial!

305. Fruit: Write an ode to your favorite fruit.

306. Long Distance Love: Write about a couple that is separated by distance.

307. Glasses: Write about a pair of eyeglasses or someone wearing glasses.

308. Robotic : Write about a robot.

309. Cute as a Button: Write about something you think is just adorable.

310. Movie Conversation: Use a memorable conversation from a favorite movie to inspire your writing.

311. Easy-Peasy : Write  about doing something effortlessly.

312. Idiom: Choose from a list of idioms one that speaks to you and create a poem around that saying or phrase. (Ie: It is raining cats and dogs)

313. Playground: Whether it is the swings or the sandbox or the sliding boards, write about your memories of being on a playground.

314. Romance: Write about romantic things partners can do for each other.

315. Rock Star: Imagine you are a famous rock star. Write about the experience.

rock star life

316. Come to Life: Imagine ordinary objects have come to life. Write about what they do and say.

317. Airplane: Write about meeting someone on an airplane and a conversation you might have.

318. Health & Beauty: Take some time to peruse your medicine cabinet or the health and beauty aisles at a local store. Write a poem, short story, or journal entry inspired by a product label.

319. Determination: Write about not giving up.

320. Instrumental Inspiration: Listen to some instrumental music and write a poem that matches the mood, beat, and style of the music.

321. Wait Your Turn: Write about having to wait in line.

322. Personality Type : Do you know your personality type? (There are many free quizzes online) – write about what type of personality traits you have.

323. Decade: Choose a favorite decade and write about it. (IE: 1980’s or 1950’s for example)

324. I Believe: Write your personal credo of things you believe in.

325. Lost and Found: Write about a lost object.

326. Say it: Write a poem or story that uses dialogue between two people.

327. The Unsent Letter: Write about a letter that never made it to its recipient.

328. The Windows of the Soul: Write a poem about the story that is told through someone’s eyes.

329. Trial and Error: Write about something you learned the hard way.

330. Escape : Write about where you like to go to escape from it all.

331. What’s Cooking: Write something inspired a favorite food or recipe.

332. Records : Go through your file box and pull out old receipts or records…write something inspired by what you find!

333. Banking: Write about visiting the bank.

334. Sweet Talk: Write about trying to convince someone of something.

335. Serendipity: Write about something that happened by chance in a positive way.

336. Distractions: Write about how it feels when you can’t focus.

337. Corporation: Write about big business.

338. Word of the Day: Go to a dictionary website that has a word of the day and use it in a poem, story or journal entry you write.

339. Pick Me Up:  What do you do when you need a pick me up?

340. Unfinished: Write about a project you started but never completed.

341. Forgiveness: Write about a time when someone forgave you or you forgave someone.

342. Weakness: Write about your greatest weakness.

343. Starting: Write about starting a project.

344. Mechanical: Think of gears, moving parts, machines.

345. Random Act of Kindness : Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone or someone has done for you, no matter how small or insignificant it may have seemed.

346. Underground: Imagine living in a home underground and use that as inspiration for writing.

347. Classic Rock: Pick a classic rock love ballad and rewrite it into a story or poem with a similar theme.

348. Night Owl : Write about staying up late at night.

349. Magnetic : Write about attraction to something or someone.

350. Teamwork: Write about working with a team towards a common goal.

351. Roller-coaster : Write about the ups and downs in life.

352. Motivational Poster: Look at some motivational posters online and write a poem or journal entry inspired by your favorite one.

353. Games: Write about the games people play – figuratively or literally.

chess game story starter

354. Turning Point: Write about a point in life where things turned for the better or worse.

355. Spellbound: Write about a witch’s spell.

356. Anniversary: Write about the anniversary of a special date.

357. Gamble:  Be inspired by a casino or lottery ticket.

358. Picnic: Write about going on a picnic.

359. Garage: Write about some random item you might find in a garage.

360. Review: Review your week, month, or year in a journal entry or poem format.

361. Detective: Write about a detective searching for clues or solving a mystery.

362. Camera: Take your camera for a walk and write based on one of the photographs you take.

363. Visiting : Write about visiting a family member or friend.

364. Trust: Write about putting trust in someone.

365. Congratulations : Did you write a poem, short story, or journal entry every day for a whole year? Write about what you’ve learned and celebrate your achievement!

We hope you enjoy these creative writing prompts! And of course, if you write anything using these prompts, we’d love to know about it! Tell us how you’ll use these everyday creative writing prompts in the comments section below!

And of course, if you’d like the printable ad-free version of these prompts to reference again and again or to use in your classroom, you can find them at our Etsy shop !

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Chelle Stein wrote her first embarrassingly bad novel at the age of 14 and hasn't stopped writing since. As the founder of ThinkWritten, she enjoys encouraging writers and creatives of all types.

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191 comments.

I have been on a reading binge since being on vacation from school. By rereading Little House, Anne of Green Gables, and Little Women among others, one wonders about writing a book. I stumbled across this while looking up unit supplements for my kiddos, and thought, hey, write a page a day and see what happens! Thank you for this collection of prompts! I’ve linked back to this page several times so others can try their hand at writing. Thank you again!

The Flicker, The Teeth, and A Warehouse in the Dark (the warehouse prompt)

I am in a large abandoned warehouse with a flickering light The only light in the whole room. It flickered leaving me in temporal darkness It flickered again and as it was dark I swore I saw something glowing It looked like glowing teeth The lights return and I see nothing Flickers on Flickers off I see the teeth closer Flickers on I see nothing Flickers off The teeth so close Flickers on An empty warehouse Flickers off The glowing teeth are inchings away bright red blood drips from their tips Flickers on Panic rises in my chest but nothing is there Turns off The mouth of bloody teeth is before my eyes I wait for the light to flicker back on I wait in complete darkness I wait And wait And wait The teeth open wide I try to scream by the darkness swallows it A hear the crunch of my bones I see my blood pore down my chest But I wait in darkness for the pain I wait And wait And wait The mouth of teeth devours my lower half I wait for pain and death I wait And wait And wait The light flickers on I see no monster Only my morphed body And blood And blood And blood And so much blood The light flickers off The monster eats my arm Flickers on I wait for pain Flickers off I watch as the creature eats my limbs Flickers on I wait for death Flickers off Slowly the teeth eat my head All I see is dark I wait for it to flicker on Where is the warehouse light? Where is the only light in the room? Where is the flicker? Where am I? Where are the bloody teeth? I wait for the light to come back And wait And wait And wait And wait And wait And wait And wait in eternal darkness

WOW. Thank you!

This is such a helpful tool! I’ve learned a lot about my self through picking a random prompt and writing the first thing that comes to mind. I’d love to see a follow up list of possible! Definitely a recomended sight!

I agree. Very helpful.

I am new at the blogging game. You have provided some wonderful ideas for blog posts. Great ideas just to get used to writing every day. Thanks

This list is really impressive and useful for those of us who are looking for good topics to blog about. Thanks!

Thank you! That somes in handy

Very nice list. Thanks for compiling and posting it. It’s not only good for bloggers, but poets, as well.

yess im using it for my new years resolution, which is to write a poem daily!

Wow, thanks so much for all these wonderful prompts! They are lots of fun and very helpful. I love how you’ve provided 365 of them–A prompt for every day of the year! 🙂

Not if it’s a leap year…

Haha. Yea. This is great though all the same.. ;-;

Lol actually there’s 364 days in a year and 365 in a leap year so……yeah

are you fucking stupid

There are actually 366 days in a leap year so… yeah

I use this for my homeschooling-I love it! Thank you so much!! This is a wonderful list. So creative! 🙂 🙂

Thanks! I’m preparing for writing every day next year and this will come in really handy. It’s just 364 writing prompts though. 164 is missing. 😉

MiMschi is wrong 164 is there i looked

I think they meant that as a joke, 164 is called left out…

Good it is useful

no its not you nonce

You Don’t Love Me, Damn You

things left unsaid

and then some

anger strangles the baby

in its crib,

flowers wilt,

rivers dry up

harsh words clatter upon the day,

echo unfortunately

till silence smothers

in its embrace

you wish you could take it back

what’s done is done

never to be undone

though things move on

part of you remains

locked in the middle of protesting

one last thing,

mouth open,

no words emerging

why must you be misunderstood?

why must everything you say

no way of straightening things out

gestures halted mid-air

an accusatory finger

shoulders locked

in sardonic shrug

dishes smash on the floor

spray of fragments

frozen mid-air

slam the door

it doesn’t open

but in spite of yourself

you turn and look

one last time…..

(Greg Cameron, Poem, Surrey, B.C., Canada)

Love these. Thank you!

This is really amazingly deep. I love it so much. You have so much talent!!

Thanks SOOO much for the prompts but I have another suggestion!

A Recipe for disaster- write a recipe for a disastrous camping trip…

that one sounds awesome.

Haha. Reminds me of the old twin’s show.. what was it.. where the two girls switch places when they meet at camp?

Pretty sure I know what you’re talking about. The Parent Trap, right? Never seen the whole movie, but it seems funny.

and also #309, everyone should have thought of a hamster “write” away XD!

May I have permission to use this list at my next Ozarks Chapter of the American Christian Writers meeting. Thank you for consideration.

Hi Leah, please send some more info here: https://thinkwritten.com/contact

i am using it for my homeschooling and i love it

i am using it for my homeschooling

where is prompt 165?

sorry I meant 164, my mistake.

well kay, there is a 164 AND 165. So your head is clearly ????????????

What I like most about these is how you can combine them and get really weird ideas. For example, empathy from the rooftops: what if you shouted something positive in public every day – or if everyone did so? It might be fun to try, and then write a diary about it. Online time travel: if people could live virtually in incredibly well=constructed versions of different time periods, what would the effects be on today’s society? Could it change our language or customs?

It would be cool if we could have goggles that showed places during a certain time period. Like Seattle 1989. And you could buy special plugins, like specific people you want to hang out with, famous or non.

That one about online time travel is crazy brilliant!!! And highly thought-provoking.

It is amazing what creative writing could do to you. Daily prompts have proven to be very inspiring and overtime writers develop their own style of writing depending on how passionate they are about it. I would love to write about all 3, online, space, and time travel. cheers! and Don’t stop writing!

I belong to a writing club. We seem to have a lot of prompts to use. I love stories having to do with rain. Would you join me. I am jim

Wow! Inspiration right here.

May I use this list for a speech at my Ozarks Chapter of the American Christian Writers?

Love the inspiration

THANK YOU. THAT IS ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS THANK YOU.

What about a leap year? You’re missing one topic.

Wonderful! I love writing and these prompts are very helpful. Thank you very much! ♥

It’s been really useful in getting me to write again! Thank you very much!

I really love the list of writing ideas you have compiled here. I will be using it and others to get myself back into writing every single day if I can be away with it. Also, I have noticed a few problems with this list. One is a repeat topic. Those are numbers 76 and 162. And you skipped a number. And have only 364 days of writing. Still through! All these ideas are absolutely amazing and awesome ideas! I commend you for putting it all together in an easy to read format too. Thank you so very much.

I think we have the list all fixed now, but thanks for catching a couple of early mistakes!

Thank you for helping me edit Lora! I don’t always have a second pair of eyes + appreciated this to fix + update the post! I always say my readers are my best editors. 🙂

these days get brighter, mine gets darker, why does it has to be me , why not life.

Mirror, Mirror: What if you mirror started talking to you?

u r awesome man

Wonderful compilation of ideas! I will send your blog along to my many Creative Writing students. I’m enjoying reading your posts.

wow!! great tips! but how long did it take you to write that? its a lot of words!! lol great stuff though..

This is so cool! I love these prompts and will definitely recommend some to my teacher!!

The promise “I made a promise with my best friend, I said i’d never break, Our personalities really did blend, But then I lied awake, The people disappearing, Her gaze was always leering. I never thought she was serious, I always took it as a joke, But it really made me curious, When she was digging around that oak, My best friend is a serial killer, And i knew the truth, My life turned into a thriller, And eating at me took away my youth, I couldn’t take it any long living with this weight, To the police I went to tell my tale, Looking at me with eyes of hate, she smiled and said, without her I would fail. Now i sit in the prison cell, Waiting for my call My friend across the room smiling, my eyes begin to swell, My neck snapping on the, from my sides my hands fall

Although my writing style is dark, that’s the way I enjoy writing, and thank you for this list, even though I didn’t do one per day, scrolling through I was able to see keywords that formed ideas in my mind

I love this <3 It's amazing :))

These are really nice I absolutely love them.

This is very helpful and I’ve been finding a way to help improve my creative writing!!! Thank you very much!

You are such a life developer, who can virtually transform a life busy with unnecessary activities humans are posted to through internet. And who can restore the appetite of people to purchase pen and paper which have considered the last commodity in the market at the expense of that great vampire ‘social media’ that left both old and young paralyzed. Thanks to the proponent of this great idea.

These are great. The Closed door one gives me a great idea for a new story! Thank you so much!

man what the fuck is this shit! i was looking for short story writing prompts and I get stuck with shit like “write about the weather outside”. Damn this shit is disappointing.

Hi John, the weather might seem boring, but there are a lot of ways you can springboard from that – maybe you write a story about a character who despises the sunshine or melts if they get rained on or they live in a underground tunnel and the house gets flooded…You can also use it as an exercise in developing more descriptive writing that shows, not tells for the scenes in your story. Writing about the weather seems “easy and boring” but seriously challenge yourself to write about it in a way that makes it interesting – it is not so easy to avoid the cliches as you might think!

I LOVE IT SO MUCH i do not know why but my kids, they will just like come on this website every time it is time to have a little bit of video games! XD

The weather outside that day was dark.

It was a perfectly reasonable sort of darkness. The kind of darkness you might get if you wake up an hour before sunrise. But it was late in the morning.

He had to make sure of that. He checked his alarm clock, his microwave oven clock, and his cell phone.

The sun was supposed to be out. But the moonlit sky was starlit and clear.

And as he looked outside again, he saw that people were out, going about their business, as if none of this really mattered at all.

What was he missing here?

(There. Now you have a short story writing prompt..)

You know what “John” i think this website is great so fuck you.

yeah you tell him john

It depends on how you view it. That one topic for instance has given me a beautiful story telling. I am currently about to round up with it and trust me the feedback has been amazing.

That is great! I’m glad it helped inspire you!

Dude kids go on here so stop swearing “John”

Maybe you need to work on improving the quality of your writing. Your use of expletives is totally uncalled for. I see nothing wrong with “writing about the weather outside”. In fact, this is a great topic and can lead to awesome discussions.

Very useful indeed. Thank u

i think this is a good prompted

I think it’s awesome, I looked for inspiration, I found inspiration, thank you

well! i fall in love with all these ideas! i loved this page! thanks for sharing these amazing ideas!

Great stuff mat Keep up the good work

I LOVE THIS SO MUCH IT IS VERY HELPFUL BUT FOR A SUGGESTION YOU COULD DO DIARY STUFF MAYBE

When I read your comment, I thought you said “DAIRY,” not “DIARY.”

So… why not both? Write something based on a dairy farmer’s diary. Or… a dairy COW’S diary. Tell their stories, their private dreams. Or hidden shame…

That’s the way to think + use this list 🙂

Great idea!

Awesome list! Thank you!

Thanks so much! I’ve always been told I’m a great writer and should publish. I haven’t done a lot of leisure writing because I’m afraid I might realize I’m NOT a good writer. My therapist wants me to write more and these prompts are perfect!

This is fun i will keep doing this no matter what every year. I can’t stop writing either. Thanks for making this, it is very fun.

This helps so much! love these ideas

Can this website give me a write on the following topic. –

Imagine that the scientists could replace the human brains with computers or invent the computers with human feelings. What do you think would happen?Would the world become a better place to live in???

I’ve been looking for prompts to work through my creative art/collage journal for 2017…and love the ones you offer here….LOVE THEM! I like that they are more than just one word and give me something to think about before I start creating each day as a warm up to what is ahead.

I hope don’t mind, but I shared them on both Instagram and my FaceBook page in hopes to get my artist/creative friends to follow along with me in creating each day. I would like to include a link to your page in a near future blog post about my creative journal.

Thank you for posting and sharing you prompts…I’m excited to get started!

I’m on number 43 and I’ve already discovered a whole bunch about myself! These prompts are amazing and I can’t wait for the next 322 of them. I’ve recommended this to several of my friends. Totally worth several notebooks chock full of prompts and a years worth of writing 🙂

Very inspiring….

Hello! Is it alright if I add some of these to a little book I’m making for my Grandmother? She hasn’t opened a computer in her life but I know these prompts would do her a world of good. I believe in the importance of asking permission to use the creative property of another person 🙂 Cheers!

Hi Maxx, of course you may share with your grandmother – the only thing we would worry about is if you were to publish them for monetary gain. Enjoy! 🙂

This is really helpful. I’m glad I saw it first. ♥

OMG!! I’ve never been in this website before!!

Thank u so much this was so helpful. Idk how u came up with all thoughts prompts. It was very helpful. Thank u again.

For the first time in a long time it finally felt like I knew was going to happen next. I was gazing into her eyes and she was gazing back. I remember it like it was just yesterday, when she was still the one for me but never forgave me. I miss the sweet sound of her laughter and now all i hear are friends. I have tried to go back and apologize to her just to see if the answer will change but even I know that it will never change because I will never be enough for her. But if she ever decides that she wants me back she can have me because a life without love is one not worth living.

gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood

can u give me one using the prompt “normal”

Thanks for this!!!!! Will definitely help me in learning to tap into my creative writing genius 🙂

Thanks, this helped me a lot!

u have a typo!!!! 364

Thanks for pointing out, got it fixed 🙂 Sometimes my brain goes faster than the computer. 🙂

I wrote this, tell me what you think; prompt #4-dancing You see her tapping her toes, always listening to music. Although she doesn’t like the music, what she doesn’t know yet is it will be stuck in her head for the next year. She’s as graceful as a butterfly yet as strong as a fighter. Many only see a pretty face yet those close enough to the fire know the passion burning deep inside of her. At home she’s quiet, always in her room yet making loud noises through the floorboards. Her parents know what she’s up to but her little brothers don’t quite understand yet. All they know is that when she goes up there she’s listening to music and soon she will play it for the whole neighborhood to hear. They don’t know that she’s practicing, practicing for the most important day of the year. The one she’s been waiting for since she’s been a little girl. Tapping her toes at the table only stops when her parents beg her to rest. Even in her dreams she on stage, dancing like a swan. Yet deep down she’s scared of the failure that she will feel if this one day goes a bit to south. Tapping her toes to the beat of her music gives her a bit of pip in her pep when she walks down the halls. No one quite understands the stress she’s going through. Through her smile she’s worries, scared that one misstep might end it all for her. But she won’t let anyone see that she’s nervous. She’s used to getting bruises, she falls on the ground but always gets back up. Because she’s a dancer, the show must go on.

Brilliant. Loved it.

Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I’m working on a site in Danish about writing and I would love to translate these awesome prompts into Danish and use it on the site. Would that be OK? I’ll credit with links of course!

Hi Camilla, you cannot copy + post these on your site, but feel free to link to the article – our site is compatible with Google translate 🙂

Hi Camilla, this list cannot be republished, even if translated into another language. However, if you would like to link to our website that would be great, your readers are able to translate it into any language if they use a web browser such as Google Chrome.

My goal is to write all of these prompts before 2018

This is amazing! I am writing for fun and this is a list of amazing prompts!

Ha, Ha . I see what you did , #164 was missing and now it say write about being left out .

Thanks a ton !!!

This link has been really helpful for my blog, loved the ideas.

Thanks for not publishing my email address

You are welcome! We never publish email addresses. If you’d like to learn more about how we collect and use information you may provide us with on this website, you can read more on our privacy policy page. Hope that helps! https://thinkwritten.com/privacy/

I have another suggestion, What about “The Secret Journey to the Unknown”. I reckon it’s awesome!

I was wondering if you could please send new ideas to me, much appreciated thanks.

I love all of these so much and i try to write referring to these at least once everyday thank you so much for these!

Trust, It is a beautiful thing. You give it to others, For them to protect. They can keep it forever, Or they can destroy it.

Wow what a treasure! Am glad I have found the right place to begging my writing journey.Thanks guys

Super awesome! Thanks so much for this collection of writing prompts!!

Today is the last day of the year 2017. I’m proud to say that I was able to complete this challenge. Thank you for the inspiring prompts! 🙂

That is awesome! We might just have to think of some new ones!!

how about one with sports like the NBA

I thought my life was over when I couldn’t access this for a couple weeks. These prompts are excellent. I write two page short stories on one every day. I hope you guys never take down this site but I’m printing these for insurance because it truly was devastating. I’m very emotionally attached to this list. Thank you so much for sharing.

Yes, we did have a small glitch in our hosting services for a few days! Fortunately, it was only temporary and unexpected! {Though I’m sure it did feel like 2 weeks!} Good to hear you are using the prompts!

Very nice article. Very useful one for improving writing skills

Thank you Sid! Glad it is useful for you!

Oh my god.. This is something a different, thought provoking and a yardstick to those who cultivated passion on writing, like me, beginners. Wishes for this website. I really wanted to try this 365 days of writing. Thanks in tons.

Glad you find it helpful! I hope it keeps you inspired to keep growing as a writer!

i love writing too! i am writing a book and this website inspired me too!

i have been writing lots of things and am getting A + on writing

thxs for your time with the web

i am making a epic book. it is because of this website. you really help. i will share a link of my book once i am done with it to your awesome cool really helpful website! thank you for your time

That is great to hear Christopher! Would love to see some of your work when you are ready to share! 🙂

WOOOOOOOOW BEST SITE!

I’m going to write few marvelous essays based on ideas in your impressive list. Thanks!

Just to tell some people that 165 or 164 is not missing because some people probably can’t see but just to let u know that 164 is a prompt called “Left Out”

Dang. The second idea about writing about what it feels like to love someone who doesn’t love you back, I wrote something like that BEFORE I found this website.

You can always try writing it again, maybe from the other person’s perspective this time? That is the beauty of the open-ended writing prompts – you can always interpret them in a way to push and challenge you as a writer!

Thank you for these prompts! I enjoyed looking through them and writing them! They gave me great ideas and inspired me so much.

This is my favorite website to find inspiration to write. I had run out of ideas and i had a huge writers block but this made it all go away. Here’s something i wrote:

He is a mess She is beautiful He has tears streaming down his face She glides across the room as if it were her kingdom And she’s The reigning queen He’s curled up in a ball In the corner of the room He looks at me I wonder what he thinks I can’t take my eyes off her The way she subtly smiles when she realizes Someone is looking She seems to be happy all the time But I can see through the smile It’s my first time noticing It’s not complete That was the first time I wanted to say hi But I thought Why would he look at me? The nerd with all the answers in her head All the books in her hands And Her sleeves full of hearts She looked at me From the corner of her eye She saw me looking The boy with the tear stains She saw me His tears were no longer streaming He had finally stood up Tall and handsome As he is Eyes Bluer than the blue jay that sat outside my bedroom window She had opened a book and started reading She hadn’t changed pages for a while Safe to assume She was distracted She looked up and Without knowing I was in front of her “Hi” Her brown eyes Stared in to my soul Erased the memory of why the tears Were streaming in the first place “Hi”

I love it Cynthia, thank you for sharing and glad that it inspired you to keep writing! 🙂

Thank you for so many amazing ideas! I love the sound of mirror, mirror!

Glad you found it inspiring Ar!

read the whole thing and didn’t find anything I’d enjoy writing 🙁

What kinds of things do you like to write? We have a whole collection of additional writing prompts lists here. Sometimes challenging yourself to write something you don’t like all in its own can be a good exercise for writing. Hope that helps!

These are ingenious!

I love these prompts! They’re inspiring! I’ve chosen to challenge myself by using one of these prompts every day of this 2019 year. I posted my writings for the first prompt on my Tumblr and Facebook pages with the prompt and a link back to this article- I hope that’s alright. If not, I can take it down, or I would love to discuss a way I could continue to do this. I hope more people can see and use these prompts because I have already found joy in using the first one.

Hi Elizabeth! Glad you are enjoying the prompts! You can definitely post what you write with these prompts as long as you do not copy the entire list or claim them as your own. Linking back to our website or this post will help others find the prompts so they too can use them for writing! If you have any questions feel free to contact us anytime using our contact form. Thanks!

Amazing original prompts Thank you so much!

Good list, but you’re not supposed to mistake it’s for its. Not on a website for writers, of all places!

I appreciate your comment, especially because after triple checking the article AND having a few grammar-police personality type friends do the same we could not find any typos. All of the instances of its and it’s are the correct usage.

However, one thing we did remember is that it is very easy for the person reading to accidentally misunderstand and not interpret it the way as the writer intended.

To clarify when we should use it’s vs. its:

We use it’s when we intend the meaning as the contraction. This is a shortened way of writing it is . We use its without an apostrophe when we use it as a possessive noun. Any instances you may note here are correct for their intended meaning.

Some examples:

Prompt #141 It’s a Sign : In this case we intend it to be interpreted as IT IS a Sign , where the usage is a contraction.

Prompt #7 The Rocket Ship : In this case we intend it to be interpreted as the possessive form.

I hope that helps clear up any possible confusion for you!

Thank you soooo much! That helped me a lot!

You’re welcome Keira! Glad you enjoyed our list of writing ideas!

It is so rich in bright and thought-provoking ideas. Thank you so much. Get inspired to have more, please

Thanks for this. I love to write things like this. Some of these though, weren’t as interesting as I wanted it to be, not saying that they aren’t interesting. I like the help you’ve added in, such as being led into a dark room with only a flashlight to help so it gets us started. Great job!

Thanks Maya, I’m glad you like the prompts. Sometimes the prompts that seem boring are the best ones to help you practice your skills as a writer to make them interesting topics. Some of the best writers can make the most mundane topics fun!

Nice….I don’t think I’ll ever lack something to write on … I so appreciate your ideas ..,they are great

Thank you, glad you enjoyed them!

Thank you for providing these writing prompts! They are great!

Thank You so much, these are amazing to start of with to get the creative juices flowing

Thank you very much

Sweet! Thank you so much! I plan to use some of these for some creative writing on CourageousChristianFather.com

I’m glad they inspired you Steve! I always love seeing what everyone writes with these prompts – I really enjoyed your post about the cookie ad jingle! 🙂

Thanks so much for this list. I needed something to kickstart my writing. This is exactly what I’ve been looking for! I just wrote #1. WooHoo!!

Thank you for your list. This is great!

I write feature articles for our church library’s monthly newsletter. Perusing this list has helped me come up with a couple dozen ideas to consider for future issues! Thanks much for putting this together – it is being used beyond the scope of what you intended, I think!

That’s wonderful Debbie! There are so many ways to apply these prompts to any sort of project – thank you for sharing how you are using them!

Thanks for your prompts, an idea I have for a prompt is write a story based on your favorite story for example I’m writing a fantasy book based on the game dungeons and dragons…

i guss its ok

cgv hbvkd vjvhsvhivhcickbcjh

Just needed to ask: I’d like to think these prompts are for free writing with no pauses? But, does one edit and polish the piece after that? I keep reading about writing every day…like brain dumping. But, there is never a mention of what one does with the piece after that??

This article has been written with sheer intelligence. Such 365 creative writing prompts has been written here. This article is worth marking as Good. I like how you have researched and presented these exact points so clearly.

Thank you for this list! You’ve inspired me to take up the challenge, though I haven’t written anything in years!

I have even created a blog to post my ideas, and keep myself accountable. I hope this is okay, I will credit, and provide a link back to this page on each post. https://thefishhavegotitright.blogspot.com/

I love it Ariadne, I’ll definitely come check out your site! Keep at it!

This is really Helpful thanks I love it😊

I never knew how much I had to write about. This should definitely keep me busy! Thank you so much for the list.

Hi! I saw a note saying this had been updated for 2020. I was curious if there are plans to update it for 2021. If so, when would the 2021-updated list become available?

Hi Gabrielle, I am not sure when we will next update this list, but feel free to check out some of our other writing prompts lists if you’ve exhausted this one! Writing Prompts for Kids {which is for grown-ups too!} and Poetry Writing Prompts are two great ones to check out. Hope that helps!

Loved this a lot! I would like to ask permission for using these prompts for my poetry and stories page on Instagram. Kindly let me know if I can use these and let my followers write on them too.

Hi, Piyusha, I’m just a user of the site like you, so I’m not “official”. But if you hit CTRL + F in your browser, that should open the “Find” dialog. Search on “Camilla”, and that will take you to a post and response concerning your request. Have a great and productive writing day. K. B. Tidwell

very informative thank you

I have always had problems finding something to write about. My problem is solved🥰 Thank you

I love this

Oh great. Good for everyone who enjoys picking the pen and writing something readable

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75+ Memoir Writing Prompts to Inspire Your Next Book

POSTED ON Sep 10, 2023

Sarah Rexford

Written by Sarah Rexford

Are you learning how to write a memoir and looking for some inspiration? Memoir writing prompts are a great writing aid and can be a creativity boost when you need it most. Not only can prompts open your mind to new memoir ideas you might not have considered otherwise, but you can even mix and match prompts for a unique twist.

Today, we're sharing 75+ done-for-you memoir writing prompts AND our free writing prompts generator that you can use to create 1000s more prompts to support your writing journey.

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This post with memoir writing prompts includes:

What are memoir writing prompts.

As the name suggests, memoir writing prompts are creative prompts or questions designed to inspire you, as an author, to reflect on and write about your most vulnerable and impactful personal experiences, memories, and life stories.

These prompts – and our memoir writing prompts generator are the perfect starting point for your book. Whether you're outlining your memoir or still deciding which memories to include, you're sure to leave this writing exercise with plenty of pages full of book-worthy ideas.

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Other things you can do for memoir writing inspiration include reading other books such as the best celebrity memoirs to get a look at other memoir examples , challenging yourself to write a Six-Word Memoir (another great writing exercise!), and even reading autobiographies. Though the latter is a different book genre, memoirs are still autobiographical in nature, and reading the best autobiographies will illustrate how others have chosen to write about their lives.

What are good topics for a memoir?

Anything! If you experienced something that had a profound impact on your life, health, beliefs, or loved ones, it's likely a story worth telling.

Bestselling memoir ideas are limitless. However, some of the most common themes covered include:

  • Personal growth
  • Family and relationships
  • Navigating personal identity
  • Experiencing a different culture
  • Mental health
  • Spirituality and faith

The memoir writing prompts below will cover these themes and more!

75+ memoir writing prompts you can use today

1. Share how the people you spend the most time with shape and influence your life on a day-to-day basis.

2. Explain the lessons your childhood pet taught you about caring for others.

3. Write about a traumatic experience in your life and how you overcame it.

4. Share how you approach your mental health and why this matters to you.

5. Write about the impact having siblings, or being an only child, had on you growing up.

6. Teach others how you made it through a big regret and how they can too.

7. Pretend to write an adventure book opening by sharing the highs and lows involved in reaching where you are today.

8. Write about the importance of pouring into others. 

9. Choose your most influential mentors and share the three lessons they taught you. 

10. Write about how your favorite moments have inspired you to keep going.

11. Share your favorite childhood memory and why it stands out to you.

12. Teach the bigger lesson learning to drive taught you. 

13. Describe a moment you messed up and how you responded.

14. Write about how your hometown has influenced your worldview.

15. Did you love or dislike school as a child? Why?

16. What books have most influenced you?

17. What themes most influenced your childhood?

18. How did you make friends as a teenager, and what does this reveal about you?

19. Share a moment you thought all was lost and how you pressed on.

20. What emotion do holidays evoke for you?

21. What do you deeply believe, and how does this impact your daily life?

22. Share lessons you wish you’d known in your twenties.

23. Write about a time you felt meaningless and what helped you find hope.

24. What is your favorite travel location and why?

25. Who is the most unique person you’ve met?

26. When did you realize you had grown up?

27. What has taught you the most about yourself and those in your community?

28. How has your growing independence or interdependence shaped you?

29. Write about why you feel you must write your memoir.

30. Who most inspires you and why?

31. Explain a time you felt your most confident. 

32. If you had to relive one year of your life, which one would it be and why?

33. Talk about a time you felt better than someone and what you learned about the worth of others.

34. Describe what lengths you would go for the person you most love (consider the relationship tropes that show up in your own life).

35. Write about how you balance hope with difficulty. 

36. When did someone give you a second chance, and how did it make you feel?

37. Write about the most influential people in your life and how they helped shape who you are.

38. Dive into your greatest hopes for your future.

39. What historical event most shaped how you live today?

40. From your experience, explain how to move forward.

41. If you had to live in a new city, where would you choose and why?

42. Describe your ideal friend. 

43. Define your view of success.

44. Discuss who you aspire to be like.

45. Write about what you learned from starting fresh.

46. What was the moment you most wished you could start over, and why?

47. How has your childhood influenced today’s decisions? 

48. Write about a success you had early in life and what it taught you about humility.

49. What’s a big choice you made that, if you hadn’t, you’d greatly regret?

50. If you could share one lesson with the childhood version of you, what would it be and why?

51. Write about a time you hurt someone and what it taught you about forgiveness.

52. What makes you most afraid, and what can readers learn from you about facing fear?

53. Dive into where you see yourself in five years and if your past plays a role in your future.

54. What did you think would make you happy, and upon achieving/obtaining it, how did you feel?

55. Write about a difficult relationship you had and how you worked through it.

56. What leadership techniques did you learn from those who raised you, and are you thankful you learned them or working to learn healthier ones?

57. What did your biggest loss teach you about love?

58. What drives your daily choices, fear, bravery, or something else, and why?

59. If you had to switch lives with one person, what would they learn from your decisions?

60. Write about the town you grew up in and how it’s shaped your perspective on life.

61. What is the earliest memory you have, and why do you think it stuck with you?

62. Define where you thought you’d be in life today, where you are, and how you feel about it.

63. Reflect on how your lifestyle today speaks to your childhood.

64. Invite readers into your thought process for one of your biggest life decisions. 

65. Write about one of your biggest regrets, and teach others going through the same thing how to deal with it.

66. Discuss what movies have most influenced your life and why.

67. Start a gratitude journal and write about the happiest time in your life and what that moment taught you.

68. Talk about a conversation you were nervous to have and how you approached it.

69. What prompts you to get out of bed and begin your day every morning?

70. Elaborate on your post-high school life trajectory. What would you do differently, and what would you keep the same?

71. What situation devastated you, and how can your resilience bring hope to others in similar places? 

72. Describe one of your most proud moments and how this memory impacts you today. 

73. What is one aspect you wish you could change about yourself, and how can others learn from this?

74. What historical moment did you experience that others could learn from?

75. Describe a scary event that helped you grow.

76. Write about your favorite vacation memory.

77. Write about the greatest lesson you ever learned and how others can learn from your journey.

How to use memoir writing prompts for your book

Writing a memoir is a deeply personal experience.

No one can tell your story for you. But, you can use tools to improve your writing , explore different themes in books , and inspire you to share your memories in new ways. Whether you found a few memoir writing prompts from the list above or you want to use our memoir writing prompt generator, here are our tips for using prompts in your writing.

  • Choose a prompt: Select a memoir writing prompt that resonates with you or relates to the theme or aspect of your life you want to explore in your memoir. If you are using the prompts generator, input your book genre and share a few more details about yourself to get a list of unlimited prompts.
  • Reflect: Take some time to think about the prompt and how it connects to your experiences. Consider the emotions, memories, and lessons associated with it.
  • Write freely: Start writing. Give yourself permission to not think about grammar, structure, or editing . Let your thoughts flow and capture every last memory and feeling that comes up.
  • Expand upon the learning moments: Revisit your work after the initial writing session. Hone in on the moments that you learned something – the moments that others would benefit from reading and learning about.
  • Omit the deeply personal things: Remember that memoir writing can be therapeutic, but the purpose is to entertain or teach. You will have strangers reading these details, so make sure you don't overshare or make claims against someone else.
  • Repeat: Use different memoir writing prompts to explore various aspects of your life. Over time, you can weave these pieces together into a cohesive narrative.

Further reading

Not finished? I've compiled a list of blogs that we've written specifically to help authors like you write better memoirs.

  • How to Write a Memoir That People Will Read
  • Memoir Writing Do’s and Don’ts
  • Autobiography vs Memoir: Which One Should You Write?
  • How to Write a Memoir Outline
  • 15 Best Book Writing Software Options in 2023
  • I’m Glad My Mom Died: A Review of the Unflinching Jennette McCurdy Memoir
  • The 18 Most Memorable Moments in the Prince Harry Memoir

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Free Character Writing Prompts #32: Senior Citizens

These 10 character writing prompts about senior citizens are anything but old hat! Through six or more decades of their lives, they have made an effort to make a living, support a family and to follow their goals. As they entire their golden years, many senior citizens continue to live with or near family and will be the patriarch or matriarch of a family until death. Others have been relegated to nursing facilities and rarely see the family members they took care of. Some have never had families at all and are trying to live out their last days in peace, while others are still working and contributing members of society. There is a lot of wisdom to learn from these elderly and important characters.

1. After serving in three major wars, his fighting days weren't over. In the first nursing home he was ever placed in, he witnessed one of his hall mates being abused by an orderly. He wrote over 100 letters to state officials and within three weeks, he was majorly involved in a piece of state legislation passed on elderly writes. He always knew that words were as strong as bullets, which he proved to himself by winning his wife of 40 years over with a poem. She passed away a decade ago and he thought of her constantly. What other fights will he be involved in during the rest of his life?

2. Ask the wizard, they'd always said, a nickname he'd picked up from his adolescent magician days. Even though it was seven decades since he'd picked up the cape, he was able to solve almost anybody's problem in the neighborhood. People would come over to his house and ring the bell, he'd shuffle over and let them in and after hearing their problem he'd pause and think for about a minute. Nearly everything he'd suggested had worked on problems ranging from marital difficulties to medical ailments. Whether or not he practiced magic, he certainly was a wizard in every other sense. What is the wildest question he's ever answered and how did he come by this ability to problem solve?

3. She wrote the book on writing. Literally, she had written a groundbreaking book on style, grammar and sentence structure that became a bestseller for five decades and as a result of the royalties, she lived very comfortably. She enjoyed writing, though she never found the same success writing fiction as she did from her reference-based material. Even at the age of 93, she got up every morning and wrote. What was the accomplishment she was most proud of and why?

4. For her, it wasn't complaining, it was just getting things the way she wanted. After all, she deserved it after 40 years of living with a man like her husband, she always said. Her family had moved away a long time ago, but she became a sort of surrogate mother for a young couple whose parents had died young. She nearly always refused a restaurant's first attempt at her order and she'd earned quite a reputation from local businesses. However, upon receiving things "just the way she wanted them," there was no person in the world quite as grateful. What is her favorite activity in the world and why?

5. He'd seen the town spring up from farmland into a small metropolitan area. Chickens and cows used to play where families parked their SUVs and as a former auto mechanic, he appreciated the change. He was always bored by the quiet countryside and he was extremely happy to see the town grow up around him. One of his simplest pleasures was to go for a walk along the forest path which went beside a highway so that he could hear the purr of cars and trucks as they whirred by. Does he equally appreciate movies and television become louder and what does he do with his spare time?

6. During most of his life he hadn't been able to pursue his passions due to a job with long hours and a family with many mouths to feed. Now that his children and grandchildren could take care of themselves, he decided to take up acting in his twilight years. His local community theater was often lacking when it came to elderly actors and they welcomed him with open arms. Before he knew it, he felt more alive than he had in decades and that was before the positive reviews in the paper. He always knew he had it in him and was glad to discover his talent before it was over. What are some of the roles he played and what made him such an adept actor?

7. Her children winced when she began to launch into one of her stories for her grandkids. After all, it might be the one about the biker gang, the affair with the politician or the naked bike ride. And the third one was only last week! The fire from her wild and crazy life had yet to die down and her children worried she'd be a bad influence on their kids. Then again, it was pretty cool having a senior citizen with pictures of celebrities instead of mountains and beaches. How has she been able to maintain her vigor for her whole lifetime and what drives her?

8. She was beginning to forget and she knew what this meant. She began to organize all of her photographs from the last 60 years into a database online with the help of her nurse. She spent her whole life acquiring these memories and she'd be damned if a ridiculously named disease was going to take them from her. The database caught the eye of a local journalist and she met with him weekly so he could write a weekly column as a sort of looking glass into the past. By the time the disease had gone into full swing, there were over 30 articles and thousands of followers of her photograph database. In her moments of clarity, is she happy with the work she did and why?

9. He refused to give up on music until it gave up on him. He was already the elderly statesman of his band when they grew to prominence in the 1970s and only 10 years later they asked him if he wanted to retire from touring. He laughed mightily before playing his guitar faster than most people alive could dream to. Now approaching the age of 80, he needed help getting on stage but that only excited his audiences more. They loved his skills and they were inspired by his desire to keep up the habit. How did he become a musician in the first place and what, if anything, would prevent him from continuing?

10. She was born on a farm, raised on a farm and if she had her way, she would be dying on a farm too. The only problem is, her children couldn't get a nurse to come anywhere close to her middle-of-nowhere property and she would need to move to the city for the first time in her life. She was never a fan of the hustle and bustle, but she wasn't about to let anybody beat her at life. She bought one of those motorized scooter and zipped around town running errands every day. The nurse could barely keep up with this determined woman. What is her day to day life like and how is it different from life on the farm?  Did you enjoy these character writing prompts?  Buy the full book of 1,000 Character Writing Prompts on Amazon!   Done with Character Writing Prompts about Senior Citizens? Go back to Creative Writing Prompts.   Related Products

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    Yes! Take a look and enjoy. Adult writers — from beginner to advanced — may find it helpful to use writing prompts when they wish to further refine their writing ability. Of course… More advanced writers may choose to use prompts to get a new inspiration especially when they want to explore a new writing genre or explore other emotions.

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  22. 75+ Memoir Writing Prompts to Inspire Your Next Book

    75+ memoir writing prompts you can use today. 1. Share how the people you spend the most time with shape and influence your life on a day-to-day basis. 2. Explain the lessons your childhood pet taught you about caring for others. 3. Write about a traumatic experience in your life and how you overcame it. 4. Share how you approach your mental ...

  23. Free Character Writing Prompts #32: Senior Citizens

    These 10 character writing prompts about senior citizens are anything but old hat! Through six or more decades of their lives, they have made an effort to make a living, support a family and to follow their goals. As they entire their golden years, many senior citizens continue to live with or near family and will be the patriarch or matriarch ...