The Art of Reflection: Journal Prompts Inspired by the Scenery of the South of France

Bonjour, dear readers!

My husband, our baby, and I are currently in the South of France (more specifically the French Riviera). Driving through the French countryside, past vineyards and lavender fields, has been like something out of a novel. And it got me thinking – what is it about travel that we find so exhilarating? Why do we seek out new experiences and adventures?

If you’re reading this blog post, you’re probably like me and find travel to be a way to gain a fresh perspective on life. As a writer and narrative therapist, I couldn’t help but wonder what role travel can play in our personal growth and stories. Whether we are seeking to escape our daily routines, expand our worldview, or challenge ourselves with new experiences, travel can provide us with unique opportunities to reflect on our lives and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Traveling allows us to step out of our comfort zones and experience new cultures, environments, and ways of life. This exposure to the unfamiliar can reveal aspects of ourselves that we may not have known before. We may discover hidden strengths, weaknesses, or passions. We may find that we are more adaptable than we thought, or we may realize that we have a deep connection to a particular place or way of life. Through travel, we can challenge ourselves, learn from our experiences, and ultimately grow as individuals. It’s an opportunity to discover new aspects of ourselves and to gain a deeper understanding of who we are and what we want out of life.

Sometimes we think that travel has to involve crossing oceans or exploring exotic destinations to be worthwhile, but that’s not always the case. Travel is all about exploration, discovery, and gaining a new perspective on the world around us. It doesn’t matter if you’re exploring a nearby town, a new neighbourhood in your city, or venturing to the other side of the world, the experiences you have and the lessons you learn can be just as profound. Here are some journal prompts to help you reflect on your own experiences:

  1. What is it about being somewhere new that excites you? Is it the chance to try new foods, to meet new people, or to see new sights? What do you hope to gain from your travels?
  2. What was your favourite part of your last trip? Was it a specific experience, a certain place, or the people you met along the way? What made that moment so special?
  3. What challenges have you faced while exploring a new city or country? Did you have any unexpected setbacks or obstacles to overcome? How did you handle them?
  4. What lessons did you learn in the process? Did you gain any insights about yourself or the world around you? How have those lessons influenced your life since returning home?

I hope these journal prompts inspire you to reflect on your own experiences and to plan your next adventure. You never know what insights and adventures await you.

Bon voyage!