There’s a certain type of energy that fills the air as I board my flight. It’s not the usual buzz of travel or anticipation of a destination, but a more profound sense of promise. A promise I made to myself, perhaps a year ago or maybe just this morning, to live intentionally. To love myself with the kind of devotion we often reserve for someone else. And right now, sitting in first class with a glass of champagne and my Crowned Journal by my side, it hits me. Self-love journaling exercises have become more than just a way to pass the time—they are the compass guiding me toward a life of luxury and fulfillment, grounded in self-care.
I always believed in journaling, but it wasn’t until I truly embraced self-love that the act took on a new meaning. Self-love journaling exercises aren't just about jotting down thoughts or recording daily events. It’s about peeling back the layers, getting to know myself in a way that no one else will ever understand. And the more I write, the more I realize: this is luxury. Not the kind wrapped in a designer bow, but the kind that comes from knowing who you are, what you want, and giving yourself permission to go after it.
If I had to recommend self-love journaling exercises to anyone, I’d say it’s a practice that belongs in every woman’s self-care routine. These moments—sitting in front of the fireplace or boarding a flight to somewhere fabulous—are the ideal times to reflect and renew. I found that the right journaling prompts can shift the way you think, the way you move through the world. And that’s the beauty of it. These self-love journaling exercises are deeply personal, yet universal enough to resonate with anyone who’s ready to elevate their inner dialogue.
The first journaling exercise that transformed me started simply with the question: What would the best version of yourself look like, and how are you promising her that you’ll meet her there? It’s a question I return to often because it keeps me accountable. It’s easy to get swept up in life, to compromise on the things we said we wanted. But when I journal about the best version of me—who she is, how she carries herself, the decisions she makes—it pulls me back to center. It reminds me that luxury isn’t just about what we have, it’s about how we treat ourselves.
As I sit here, 35,000 feet in the air, I pull out my Crowned Journal. It’s become a staple in my routine, something I carry with me everywhere, not just for the elegance of its gold-edged pages but for the depth it allows me to reach. The guided prompts in this journal have taken me to places emotionally that I didn’t know existed. The way they’re designed—almost like a gentle nudge from a friend—helps me uncover thoughts and feelings I didn’t realize were buried beneath the surface.
One of my favorite features of the Crowned Journal is the affirmation cards that come with it. Every morning, I pull one out, let its message sink in, and use it as my journaling theme for the day. Today’s card reads: You are worthy of every beautiful thing. I let that sink in for a moment, feeling its truth. I open my journal, and today, that’s where my self-love journey begins.
Self-love is often spoken about as if it’s something we can check off a list, but for me, it’s ongoing. The act of sitting down with my journal every day, pouring out my thoughts, my worries, my victories—it’s what keeps me grounded. It’s what renews me. And over time, I’ve noticed something: the more I write, the more I grow. The act of journaling has become my personal luxury self-care ritual. Every page is a reminder that my happiness is my responsibility, that I have the power to shape my narrative, one word at a time.
Luxury self-care looks different to everyone, but for me, it’s the small things. It’s waking up in the morning, lighting my favorite candle, and sitting in front of the window with my journal. It’s sipping a glass of water with slices of cucumber and mint while I reflect on the day. It’s the feel of the pen gliding over the paper, the way the words flow when I give myself the time and space to process them. This is how I’ve built a life of luxury—by making space for myself, every day.
And today feels special. Maybe it’s the combination of the quiet moments of reflection before my flight or the anticipation of where I’m headed, but as I pull out my journal, I feel a sense of clarity. I’ve customized my journaling practice in a way that feels entirely mine. Here are some of the self-love journaling exercises that have been guiding me lately:
1. What are the three things I love most about myself right now?
This is the easiest and hardest question to answer, all at once. But it’s a game-changer because it shifts your focus to appreciation.
2. How do I want to feel a year from now? What does my life look like when I feel that way?
A little future-thinking never hurt anyone, but what I love about this exercise is the feeling it creates. It’s a reminder that we can shape our lives based on how we want to feel.
3. What are my boundaries, and how am I honoring them?
Setting boundaries is the ultimate act of self-love. Writing them down makes them real, and honoring them makes you stronger.
4. What negative thought patterns am I ready to release?
We all have them, those little whispers of doubt or fear. Putting them on paper helps me release them and choose better thoughts.
5. How do I show love to myself daily?
This prompt reminds me that self-love is in the details, in the everyday actions we often overlook.
6. What is something I’ve accomplished that I’m proud of, and why haven’t I celebrated it yet?
Sometimes we get so caught up in the hustle that we forget to celebrate our wins. This question always brings me back to the joy of achievement.
These exercises, though simple, have made all the difference. And with each passing day, I notice the changes. I’ve stopped seeking validation from others. I no longer need to prove anything to anyone because I know my worth. Self-love journaling has taught me that I am enough, and that realization has been the greatest luxury of all.
One of the most unexpected parts of my self-love journey has been learning to let go. I used to hold on so tightly to everything—relationships, expectations, mistakes—but through journaling, I’ve learned that letting go is an act of love. And with each release, I’ve made room for something better. This year, I’m focusing on release—letting go of perfection, of the need to control, of the idea that I have to have it all figured out.
And speaking of new beginnings, let’s talk about what this year has taught me about change. Change used to scare me, but now, I see it as an opportunity. It’s taught me that growth is inevitable, but how we grow is up to us. And through journaling, I’ve discovered that the key to navigating change is self-awareness. The more I journal, the more I understand myself, and the easier it becomes to move through life’s transitions with grace.
Self-discovery, for me, looks like writing my way through every challenge, every joy, and every heartbreak. It looks like sitting down with my Crowned Journal and letting the emotions flow. Some days, the words come easily. Other days, it feels like I’m pulling teeth. But every time, I walk away feeling lighter, more connected to myself.
I promised myself at the start of this journey that I would be my own biggest advocate, that I would fight for my happiness and my peace. And that’s exactly what I’ve done. Through journaling, I’ve learned to listen to my inner voice, to trust her, and to follow where she leads. I’ve learned that self-love isn’t selfish—it’s essential. And in this fast-paced world, it’s the most luxurious gift we can give ourselves.
Now, as the flight attendant walks by, offering another glass of champagne, I smile. Because I know that I’m living my life with intention. I know that every word I write, every thought I release, is a step toward becoming the best version of myself. This year, I’ve learned to value my peace, to honor my journey, and to celebrate my growth.
If I had to offer one piece of advice to anyone starting their self-love journey, it would be this: don’t rush the process. Take your time. Sit with your thoughts. Write them down. And when you do, let it be an act of love. Let it be a moment of luxury, a reminder that you are worth every bit of care and attention you give yourself.
As I close my Crowned Journal and place it back in my bag, I feel a deep sense of contentment. I’ve come a long way, and I know there’s still more to discover. But for now, I’m exactly where I need to be. And that, my friends, is the ultimate luxury.
I got my Crowned Journal from Opals & Carats, a brand that understands the beauty of self-reflection and growth. Every page feels like an invitation to explore deeper, to love harder, and to celebrate myself in ways I never have before. And if you’re ready to start your own self-love journey, it’s the perfect companion. Because luxury isn’t just about the things we surround ourselves with—it’s about how we treat ourselves along the way. You can find it here: https://opalsandcarats.com/products/crowned-journal.