The Ultimate 30-Day Journal Challenge For Self-Love

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Last Updated on April 29, 2024 by Isabelle Dias

This is not your typical journal challenge. Let me start by taking this out of the way. If you are looking for something that will guide you through a journey of self-love and confidence with a deep sense of growth, this is the journaling challenge for you!

During this 30-day self-love challenge, I will guide you through the five pillars of deep confidence and give you way more than just journaling prompts. Get ready for actionable steps, easy-to-follow ideas, and major inspiration. 

This one is a BIGGIE, and you will definitely want to have this article in hand to accomplish your daily challenge and question of the day. That’s why I recommend you pin this babe on your favorite board so you can always come back later!

How does this journaling challenge work & what is a journal challenge?

Before we start, let me give you a quick explanation of a journal challenge, how this self-love journal challenge works, and how to make the most of it.

A journal challenge is a structured activity in which you commit to regularly writing in a journal for a set period, often following specific prompts or themes.

These challenges can vary in duration, from a week to several months, and they can cover a wide range of topics such as gratitude, self-reflection, goal setting, creative writing, or exploring emotions.

We are committing to 30 days for this specific challenge, focusing on building self-love. 

Is journaling good for mental health? The short answer is yes! 

Journal challenges can provide a safe space for emotional expression, encouraging self-reflection and insight into thoughts and feelings.

By organizing thoughts, managing stress, and exploring gratitude, we can cultivate greater self-awareness, problem-solving skills, and a more positive outlook.

Beyond that, journaling encourages creativity and self-expression, contributing to overall mental health and well-being. So you are in for a treat! 

Our Journaling 30-day self-love challenge 

I divided the 30 days of this journal challenge into five different sections: 

• Your inner world 
• Self-image
• Relationships
• Inspirations
• Goals 

Each one of them is an essential pillar of your self-love journey. So make sure you don’t skip anything! 

Each day of the journal challenge starts with a short and sweet introduction to the topic, and we will dive deep into the journal prompt.

After that, you will have the question of the day. That’s your journal prompt for the day. 

Some days, I will give you more than one journal prompt. Make sure to reserve some extra time for those. 

Take this challenge at your own pace. You can do it one day at a time, multiple days at a time, or a mix of both—whatever will give you more support on your journey. 

I am so excited to start this adventure with you!

Let’s get this party started! 

Journal Challenge Days 1-6: Your inner world 

Day 1

If you are starting this challenge, most likely, there are things about your life and yourself that you don’t like. 

I want to let you know that’s perfectly normal. 

Self-love is not about seeing yourself as perfect. It is about having the grace to change the things you can improve while making peace with the ones you can’t. 

Knowing that none of those things makes you less worthy of love, acceptance, and success. 

Question of the day: Why are you starting this journal challenge, and what do you hope to change during the next 30 days?

Day 2

Yesterday, I talked a little about the things you might love about yourself. And also the things that might bother you… 

Sometimes we can get carried away with this overwhelming feeling that everything about us is wrong when this is not the reality AT ALL. 

It’s time to put on some real-life glasses and assess your strengths and weaknesses. Are you ready?

Question of the day:  What are five things you love about your personality and attitude towards life overall? For example, your positivity, you are a good listener, your hard-working ethic…

What are five things you would like to change about your personality and attitude towards life overall? For example, oversharing, being afraid of trying something new, being too self-conscious about other people’s opinions…

Day 3

 Gratitude is a powerful fuel on the road to building better confidence and deep self-love. 

The comparison trap of thinking everyone else has its best loses power when you can look around and feel truly grateful for what you already have. 

And that’s exactly what you are going to do today!

Question of the day: What do you absolutely love about your life right now?

Big or small, make a list and be as specific as possible.

Day 4

Your childhood plays a big part in the person you become.

Those are the years when most of your beliefs about yourself and the world are formed, both the good ones and the bad ones. 

When you can look back and pay attention to the clues, it’s possible to learn so many things about why you do the things you do. 

Ready for a bit of nostalgia?

Question of the day: What is your favorite childhood memory?

Why is this your favorite moment? 

Day 5

Unfortunately, it is common to treat other people with way more grace and love than we treat ourselves. 

Maybe you also got stuck in the cycle of seeing everyone else as more deserving than you, being quick to put yourself down and quick to elevate others.

Well… It’s time to change that.

Question of the day: Why do you deserve to treat yourself with more grace?

Make a list of all the reasons. 

Day 6

 Still, on the topic of how you treat others versus how you treat yourself, it’s time to get practical! 

Now that you already got clear on all the reasons why you deserve to treat yourself with grace…

*spoiler alert: just because you are worthy of it*

…it’s time for the next step.

I want you to think about HOW you can do that.

Maybe you will stop talking hurtful words about your body. Perhaps you will allow yourself to sleep in for a day or two. Only you know what you need. 

Question of the day: How can you have more grace with yourself?  

Journal Challenge Days 7-12: Self-Image 

Day 7

Let’s start today singing Lizzo’s lyrics, babe! 

“Mirror, mirror on the wall, tell me what you see… It’s that, oh my God, it’s lookin’ heavenly.” 

Yep, you are looking heavenly! And that’s what today is all about!

Looking around is so easy to think YOU only have stuff that needs to be fixed.  

Your hair is not good enough. 

You are not thin enough. 

Your pores are not flawless enough… 

It’s time to change it up and take a first step toward conquering this toxic mentality, my dear! 

Question of the day: What are five of your best physical qualities (yes, that flawless hair of yours counts)?

Make a list, and don’t stop at five if you remember more! 

Day 8

Have you ever realized how deeply other people’s words can affect us? 

While negative comments can stick around for years, the positive ones tend to be forgotten. 

That’s why today you are going to go on a little trip to the past and collect some of the nicest things people told you!

Strangers, family, friends, co-workers… Anyone counts. 

Ready to see yourself through loving eyes? 

Question of the day: What are some of the nicest things people told you about yourself?

Yes, that comment your professor made on the parent-teacher conference and your mom told you after counts too. 

Day 9

Do you have a go-to power outfit?

That *one* look that makes you feel hot and confident AF? 

Maybe it is your favorite dress, with those beautiful heels. Or those comfy jeans that make your butt look oh-so-juicy. 

For me, it’s my black faux leather leggings, a black cashmere turtleneck sweater, and black leather high-heeled boots with bold red lipstick (I have a thing with leather). 

You probably have one, even if you haven’t noticed yet. But knowing what that outfit is will help you give yourself a quick boost of confidence, especially on those days when you need a pick-me-up. 

Question of the day: What is your go-to power confidence outfit?

Day 10

If you read anything in the blog besides this challenge, you probably know I am a BIG fan of routines. 

Night routines, morning routines, self-care routines… You name it! I am here for all of them! 

The thing is, life gets busy, and sometimes, you won’t be able to stick to your routine perfectly (I know I can’t!). 

In those moments when everything around seems hectic and grounded is the last thing you feel, it’s essential to have that little something to help you feel good about yourself.

For some people, it takes a few minutes to meditate or go for a walk outside.

For me, it is taking a long warm bath with essential oils and a fun playlist I can sing along with. 

What is it for you?

♡ If you need some inspiration on self-care, you might love these:

Effortless Daily Self-Care Routines Based On Your Love Language

85 Simple & Fun Wellness Ideas To Change Your Life

Ten Simple Ways To Practice Daily Self-Care

Nine Small Underrated Habits That Will Change Your Life

How To Start An Easy Self-Care Routine You’ll Love

Question of the day: What is one little thing you can add to your routine to make you feel REALLY GOOD about yourself?

Day 11

“No one is you, and that is your biggest power.” ― Dave Grohl

I am ABSOLUTELY in love with this quote since the first time I read it!

Like I’ve said before, sometimes it’s easier to focus on what you don’t have instead of the things you already do. 

That’s why I want you to think about at least one thing that you are really good at.

Like level PRO-people-ask-for-your-help-on-it good. 

It may be your mind-blowing gift for baking or how incredible you are with kids. 

Maybe you can organize a room like no one’s business or have a brilliant mind for writing. 

Only you know what that one particular thing that you do amazingly well is. 

Question of the day: What is that one thing that you are excellent at? 

Day 12

Can I tell you something you probably don’t hear enough?

You are doing better than you think.

Maybe you are a stay-at-home mom of three beautiful humans. 

A passionate business owner. 

A genius college student. 

An incredible professional.

You name it!

You are also investing time and energy in developing self-love and in challenges like this.

But probably, you are also an overachiever, constantly striving for MORE. 

There is nothing wrong with that! But you need to remind yourself to stop and give yourself credit for kicking ass every day. Because I know you do. 

Question of the day: Why are you fantastic at what you do (work, being a mom, college student)?

What things are you doing that makes you better at it than most people? 

Journal Challenge Days 13-18: Relationships

Day 13

We all have needs. 

As a Marketing major, I can tell you the basic human needs with my eyes closed (#humblebrag):

• Physiological needs: water, food, rest
• Safety needs: employment, health, resources
• Love and belonging: intimacy, friendship, sense of being part of something
• Esteem: respect, self-esteem, recognition, status, freedom 
• Self-actualization: desire to become everything you can possibly be 

Those are the basic needs you need to live a happy, well-balanced, fulfilled life. 

But on a more personal note, everyone has specific needs.

Those little things that, when together, can make you feel happy, at peace, and thriving. 

Maybe it’s a passionate romantic relationship. A friend that you can hang out at any time. Your weekly Starbucks Venti Vanilla Latte (amen!). 

Have you ever thought about your specific needs? 

Question of the day: What do you NEED to thrive?

Day 14

Want to know one dirty little secret about humans?

One way or the other, they will find a way to get their needs met. 

For example, someone with the need to feel loved and comforted might not have friends or close family. 

So this person might look for that love and comfort in one-night stands.

Food addiction.

Alcoholism.

Even workaholism and nonstop accomplishment. 

Oh, dear humans… Such interesting creatures. 

Question of the day: What about you?

How are you currently getting your needs met? 

Day 15

Relationships are one of the significant ways your needs can be met. 

Way beyond romantic relationships, this goes for work relationships, family, friends, community… the list goes on. 

Those relationships can make you or break you. 

A healthy relationship can help you flourish and become your best possible version. While a toxic one can make you sick, afraid, and doubtful about your own worth. 

That’s why it’s time for a good ol’ relationship diagnosis!

Question of the day: List the most influential relationships in your life right now.

How do they make you feel about yourself?

What is healthy about those relationships?

What is not healthy about them? 

Day 16

Do you know those people in your life who always cheer and support you?

Think about that friend who always reminds you of your strengths, that partner who helps you keep going when things get tough, or the co-worker who makes sure to give you compliments in front of your boss.

They are your personal cheerleaders! 

It doesn’t matter if you have only one or thirty. Those people can always help you remember how amazing and unique you are. 

Question of the day: Who are your biggest cheerleaders?

Day 17

Many studies have already shown the importance of being intentional with our closest relationships. 

Still, many times the ones closest to us are the primary source of criticism, discouragement, and fear. 

But what about those wonderful cheerleader people we talked about yesterday? Where are they?

When you are intentional about being close to your cheerleaders, you are changing the energy around you. 

From negativity to positivity. From fear to love. 

Are you ready to make some changes?

Question of the day: How can you foster closer relationships with your biggest cheerleaders? 

Day 18

I want you to picture your best friend. 

That one person who is your ride-or-die for anything, who has seen the best and worst of you, and still loves you like crazy!

Do you know who I’m talking about? Great! You will need it to answer today’s journaling challenge. 

Question of the day: How would your best friend describe you to a complete stranger? 

Journal Challenge Days 19 – 24: Inspiration 

Day 19

Let’s take a little trip to the future… Our own “Back To The Future” moment. 

Imagine your future self five years from now. 

This version of yourself was able to accomplish beyond your wildest dreams. And is the closest version of your higher self here on Earth. 

In this future, you will be happy, confident, and proud of your accomplishments, living life in a state of deep peace and gratitude. 

Question of the day: What advice would the future-higher version of yourself give you for this specific moment of your life? 

Day 20

Close your eyes (after you finish reading this, of course!) and return to the version of yourself you connected with yesterday. 

Now imagine a perfect day in their life. From waking up, the breakfast menu, their home, partners, work, friends, the next vacation, errands, dinner, night routine…

Do your best to create a little movie inside your head, with as much detail as possible. 

When you open your eyes, write down everything that you just visualized. 

Question of the day: After experiencing a day in your future, how do you feel?

Describe your feelings in detail. 

Day 21

Over the last two days, you’ve been reflecting on your future and the infinite possibilities out there. 

Today, spend some time thinking about your reality and what you need to change and adjust to make that “beyond your wildest dreams” kinda future happen for you. 

Question of the day: What do you need to change and adjust in your life today to make your dream future life happen? 

Day 22

We all have role models. 

Some of them are famous successful people, like Oprah and Michelle Obama. 

Some are people in our own lives, like that amazing aunt or your best friend from work. 

Having those inspirations around is a powerful way to keep yourself inspired and reminded of the amazing things humans are capable of doing.

If someone else did it, it means that you can do it too! 

Question of the day: Who inspires you?

Make a list of your role models and list the reasons why they encourage you. 

Day 23

There is a saying that goes something like this: “You inspire people who pretend to not even see you.”  

Have you ever considered that? Your life and story inspire people you don’t even know are paying attention to!

But what about you? 

Question of the day: What have you conquered over the past years (or even months) that makes you proud of yourself?

List as many things you remember, big or small. 

Day 24

It’s time to create your own inspiration toolbox! 

These are resources that you can refer to every time your motivation needs an extra boost: quotes, movies, books, and even TV shows.

♡ If you need some inspiration for your inspiration toolbox, you might love these:

7 Books You NEED To Read As a Woman in Her 20s

The 7 Self-development Books Every Woman Should Read

Personal Development Movies: The Ultimate TOP 10

Movies to Get Over a Breakup Fast: TOP 10 on Netflix

My Official Inspirational & Motivational Quotes Board

Question of the day: What do you want to include in your personal inspiration toolbox?

List at least 5 tools and resources you can go back to. 

Journal Challenge Days 25-30: Goals

Day 25

One of the components of self-love and confidence is a little thing called self-efficacy.

I already talked about this extensively here on the blog, but in a nutshell, self-efficacy is: 

“Self-efficacy refers to an individual’s belief in his or her capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments (…). Reflects confidence in the ability to exert control over one’s own motivation, behavior, and social environment. These cognitive self-evaluations influence all manner of human experience, including the goals for which people strive, the amount of energy expended toward goal achievement, and likelihood of attaining particular levels of behavioral performance.” – American Psychological Association 

Or, as I like to say: when you succeed at a task, you put a little block on your “I believe in myself!” wall. When you fail at a task, you take out a block at your “I believe in myself!” wall.

Yesterday we already covered some of the things that have been building your self-efficacy, and you didn’t even know (it’s the circle of lifeeee self-love)! But today, we are going to go a step further.

Let’s look at the future blocks of your “I believe in myself!” wall. 

Question of the day: If you knew nothing could go wrong, which goals would you like the accomplish over the next 6 months?

List five of them. 

Day 26

Do you know the best way to get inspiration and focus working together? A vision board! 

Simply put, a vision board is a collection of pictures that represent your goals. 

Use this as a boost on your journey and to look at it daily. Visualizing your life once those goals are accomplished. 

A vision board also helps you to keep the focus on what REALLY matters when distraction shows up. 

One of the best ways to create a vision board is to search Pinterest for pictures that represent your goals and inspire you. 

You can create a secret board on Pinterest, where you save all of them. Printing the pictures and pinning them to a physical board is also an option. Making one on Canva and keeping it digital is also one of the many possibilities.

But before you start your new arts and crafts project, it’s time to get clear…

Question of the day: What do you want to include on your vision board to represent the goals you listed yesterday? 

Day 27

Are you ready for another visualization exercise?

(Please, answer this with an “Aye aye captain” if you also grew up with Spongebob SquarePants playing nonstop). 

Allow yourself to let your mind wander for a second… 

Imagine that one day, you woke up and realized that, during the night, you had been transported to a remote island. It’s a beautiful place where you have absolutely everything you need and don’t have to worry about anything or anyone. 

You are all by yourself, with absolutely no distractions. 

During your time there, you need to choose only ONE of your goals to work on. 

Question of the day: Which goal would you choose and why?

Day 28

Wait, we are not ready to leave our paradisiac island from yesterday! 

Now, I want you to imagine that you will get an award for reaching the goal you picked. 

There are three options for this award, but you can only pick one. 

You can choose between ten times more praise, ten times more money, and ten times more time.

Question of the day: Which award would you choose?

Why would you choose this specific thing? 

Day 29

I believe with all my heart that the Bible says that faith without works is dead.

You can wish, plan, and visualize as much as you like, but without action, all that effort is meaningless. 

That’s why today, you are going to get clear about what actionable steps you need to take to make THAT ONE GOAL a reality in your life. 

Give yourself a time budget. Will this project take you a week, a month, or six months? 

It’s ok to readjust your dates during the process, but I have something in mind to give you direction during this jump-start phase. 

If you’re not sure how to do that, don’t worry! One of my favorite bonus tools of the 21-Day Self-Discovery Plan has absolutely everything that you need to get all the tips I just gave and turn into actionable, doable steps.

The Goal Setting Workbook comes with an exclusive system toolkit that includes S.M.A.R.T. goal worksheets, action plan templates, a progress tracker, and all the other good stuff you need to make things happen!

Question of the day: Imagine that you are writing a recipe for your goal. What ingredients do you need, and what is the step-by-step?

Write down the actionable steps you need to take to make this specific goal a reality. 

Day 30

Can you believe you made it?

OH. MY. GOD.

Can you give yourself a cute tap on the back and do a little victory dance? 

Today I want you to take some time to reflect on how far you’ve come and how much things have changed in your life over those 30 days. 

I hope you are proud of yourself because I am SO ABSOLUTELY proud of you! 

Question of the day: If you could write a thank you note to the version of yourself that started this challenge, what would you write on it?

Write that thank you note. 

I hope you know this is just the beginning for you! A first step into creating a life you absolutely love!

Now, I am curious to know! What did you think of my 30-day journaling challenge for self-love?

Leave a comment below and tell me about it. 

If those ideas were helpful, be sure to share them with a friend who can use them! 

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