Your father is someone you can always count on. He’s your rock and your role model. He’s the one who taught you how to change a tire and to never give less than 100 percent all of the time.
Father’s Day is this weekend, which is a good opportunity to take a little time to reflect on your dad (or any other important father figure) and the part he has played in your life. Even if your dad isn’t around anymore, it’s still valuable to do some reflective writing on the times you and your dad have spent together, as well as the lessons you’ve learned from him. Here are a few journaling prompts to get you started:
1. Do a free-write about your Dad.
Time yourself for two minutes and jot down everything that comes to mind when you think of your father-- memories, adjectives, personality quirks, etc. After you’re done, take a second to read over what you’ve written and then...
2. Write a letter.
Your free-writing has given you a good foundation for writing a letter to your dad. Pick one or two of the most important ideas, and use those to compose your message. Do you have a memory you want to share? Or are there things you’ve always wanted to say to your father but never have? Take the time now to release those feelings and thoughts. If your dad is still with you, consider giving him a copy of the letter on Father’s Day.
3. Make a collage.
This one’s a little bit more artistic. Are there ticket stubs, pieces of clothing, or other things lying around the house that remind you of your dad? Photos? Magazine clippings? Postcards? You could do this with pictures, words, or both. Create a collage the represents the relationship you have with your dad.
4. Write about your dad’s the most important ideals or morals.
Were there any pieces of advice that he gave that you still use today? Any sayings or mantras he would repeat? How has his moral stance influenced you as a person?
5. Think about the things that are special and unique to your dad.
What are your earliest memories of him? When you close your eyes and think of your father, what stands out? Make a list and include everything from the cologne he uses to his knack for striking up a conversation with anyone.
6. Do some reflective writing on a Father’s Day tradition.
Did you and your family make a big deal out of Father’s Day every year? Did you spend the day grilling in the backyard or head to the ballpark to catch a game? How did you and your family show appreciation for your father growing up?
Happy Father’s Day! Feel free to answer these journaling prompts in the comments.