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Isn’t December the perfect time to make it extra cozy with a blanket, a hot coco or coffee and a journal to plan the new year ahead? In this article I have collected writing prompts for reflection and growth, one for each day in December.


I think it is important to look back and reflect on the old before starting the new.   So before putting those new year’s resolution ideas on paper and making them specific, reflect on what you want to carry with you into 2027 and what you want to release.  In doing so, you give your new intentions more chances to survive by starting fresh and with a clear mind.


You only need a little notebook, it doesn’t need to be perfect or completely empty, a pen and these entries and lists to get you started.  Bookmark the page or save your favorite pins on your Pinterest board, write one sentence, paragraph, one page or more each day in December and start 2027 with a bang!

End-of-Year Journal Entries: 31 December Prompts for Reflection & New Year’s Resolutions


ON THIS PAGE:


The year in review

What I learned

Things I need to remember from 2026

Things to release before the New Year starts

Lists for making plans

The year ahead

What to do after completing the end of year journal prompts?

More tips to make your New Year’s resolutions stick


The year in review


Day 1 | Some unexpected moments in 2026 I need to reflect on and write about are …

Day 2 | The biggest change in 2026 was…

Day 3 | Some milestones I am proud of are …

Day 4 | I spent too much time worrying about … 

Day 5 | In 2026, I surprised myself and my loved ones because..


What I learned


Day 6 | I discovered that I am a lot stronger when ...

Day 7 | I give myself permission to grow because I made the following decisions; ...

Day 8 | I realise I can still improve the following habits; ...

Day 9 | I understand now that I need ...



Things I need to remember from 2026


Day 10 | Ordinary but wonderful moments to remember

Day 11 | People that shaped 2026

Day 12 | Things I took for granted in 2026 but will be more grateful for in 2027

Day 13 | Hobbies, rituals and places that brought me joy

Day 14 | Experiences that made me feel alive


Things to release before the New Year starts


Day 15 | Regrets

Day 16 | Old versions of myself

Day 17 | Expectations that other people have for my life that don't feel authentic

Day 18 | Limiting beliefs



Lists for making plans


Day 19 | Things I want more of

Day 20 | Things I want less of

Day 21 | My goals and ambitions for 2027

Day 22 | Habits and routines I want to build

Day 23 | Relationships I want to invest in

Day 24 | My 2027 bucket list


The year ahead


Day 25 | In 2027 I want to become ...

Day 26 | Regardless of the circumstances I want to feel ...

Day 27 | I want to give myself this present ...

Day 28 | My ideal year would look and feel like ...

Day 29 | In 2027 I need to prioritize ...

Day 30 | In the future I would like to thank 2027 me for...

Day 31 |  I dedicate the following quote, theme or intention to 2027; ...



What to do after completing the end of year journal prompts?


Now that you reflected in your journal to better understand yourself and made some intentions to make 2027 your best year ever, you can turn those into clear, achievable goals and New Year’s resolutions. 


Don’t overwhelm yourself with intentions that aren’t realistic.  Change and growth take time and choosing 1 or 2 new habits to build at at time is a smarter choice than forcing your daily life into a complete new mold in just one day, week or even month.  Choose a direction that truly matters and take little baby steps towards your better version. 


More tips to make your New Year’s resolutions stick


  • Focus on building systems.  Select one or two actions that move the needle the most and work on them consistently and relentlessly. 

  • Do not change an existing routine overnight but stack a new habit onto existing ones. 

  • Build one or two habits at a time before introducing new ones. 

  • Think about obstacles you might encounter and find solutions before they occur.

  • Check in with yourself by journaling, daily or weekly. Are you new to journaling?  Read this complete guide to journaling for beginners. 

  • Don’t let a missed day (or two) make you quit on your progress.  

  • Remind yourself that progress is not linear. 

  • Celebrate your progress, even small wins matter! 


I hope these December prompts could be the starting point to a better and more purposeful year.  You can find more journaling prompts here.


Personally, I dedicate this quote to 2027: 

Dream the impossible and then take possible steps! 

What is your quote or theme for 2027?  Let me know in the comments!


Do you find this article helpful? Save this pin to your Pinterest board for easy access:



By

Noor Deleersnyder

Updated on 

11 October 2026

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