Journal Prompts for Father's Day

“Sometimes the people we love let us down, and that’s okay—it doesn’t define you. You’re allowed to feel the hurt, but you’re also allowed to let go and choose your own peace.”
–Lisa Bevere

You can still make it if your dad wasn’t what you hoped for. There’s life after disappointment, for sure! Most people give it their best, right? That’s what I’ve learned, even if it didn’t suit me just right. So if your childhood left you a little disappointed, remember dad was probably doing his best—you just wish he could’ve done better.
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Take a look at these prompts in case you need to shift your focus this Father’s Day.

💙Reflect on Positive Influences
Take a sec and think about any male figure in your life (could’ve been a great teacher, uncle, mentor, or friend) who has shown you tons of kindness and support. Did their love shape you? Tell me how.
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💙Find Strength in Challenges
Get a little vulnerable and write about a difficult moment from your childhood where dad was involved. Through that experience did you get stronger? Maybe more resilient? Jot down what you appreciate about your own strength today.
 
💙Reframe the Narrative
If dad is distant and growing up was painful, think about one small “dad moment” or even a small trait he’s got that you can be thankful for. Maybe he gave you life—and that’s all you can think of! But it’s something, so work with it. If you acknowledge this, it will shift your perspective. Tell me how it shifts your focus.
 
💙Gratitude for Self-Parenting
If dad didn’t nurture or support you very much, you’ve probably wished a father figure had. But I bet you decided to show up for yourself anyway—what did you decide to move past on purpose? Be specific. Maybe you had to be extra responsible before your time, but now you see how that served you. Whatever it is, write it down and give thanks for it.
 
💙Looking Forward with Hope
Look at things like this: whatever you didn’t get from dad, decide to give to those around you—on purpose. Your kids, your friends, and your family can gain so much if you do this. Give them what you never got—support, love, friendship, good advice, you name it. How will this make you feel? To show up for the ones you love exactly how they need it?
 
“With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matt. 19:26)