Now that you are becoming more familiar with the idea of shadow work, it’s time to begin! Have courage and know that there is no right or wrong way to go through this journey- as long as you are going at your own pace, and taking care of yourself all the way through. 

Beginning shadow work can be overwhelming, and you may be asking yourself, “where do I start?” 

Read on as I share 10 journal prompts that will gently guide you into this process with clarity and as much ease as possible. 

Journal Prompts for starting Shadow Work:

1. What makes you feel empty? How do you tend to fill that void?
   i) What are some healthy strategies you might develop to overcome feelings of emptiness?
2. What makes you feel most valued? How can you amplify this in your life? 
3. What person or situation has hurt you most in life? Write a letter to this person/ situation saying everything you feel you need to. 
4. What memories bring you shame?
   i) Think about who you were then, what led to your behavior, and how you’ve changed since.
   ii) Now write out the words ‘I did the best I could at the time and I forgive myself’.
5. What emotions tend to bring out the worst in you. Why do you think this is?
6. List 1-5 of your triggers and write about how these triggers may be related to your past traumas. (i.e. feeling triggered when your partner stays out late because you are afraid they are cheating/lying to you; in childhood you had an dishonest, disloyal parent)
7. When have you been self-sabotaging or destructive in your life?i) Examine how you were feeling at the time, and what triggered your behavior.
8. Write about what makes you feel safe, secure, and loved.
9. What emotions have you been repressing from your past? Give them a name and write a letter to yourself from that emotion’s perspective. 
10. What situation in your life do you most wish had had a different outcome?
    i) How would it have improved your life?
    ii) In what ways is your life better for it not having worked out?

Our shadows will continue to hold power over us so long as we are rejecting and repressing them. Be brave and use these journal prompts to help get you to the core of what needs healing within yourself. Stay tuned for more informational blogs sharing supportive tips and practices for your Shadow work and Self love journey.

Always remember that you are so loved, for who you are now, who you are becoming, and for who you have been. 

“How can I be substantial if I do not cast a shadow? I must have a dark side if I am to be whole.” -Carl Jung