Shadow Work Journal vs. Manifestation Journal, Difference Explained (Prompts Included)

How many times have you heard of shadow work journals and manifestation journals? You may recognize “shadow”, “journal”, and “work”. But when those words are put together, what are they? 

A few months ago, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, integrating practices that have significantly transformed my life: Shadow Work and Manifestation. Through journaling, I’ve uncovered truths and manifested dreams I once thought were out of reach. I think I can answer some of your questions. 

Understanding Manifestation Journals

What is manifestation?

Manifestation brings our dreams and goals into reality. The foundational principle behind manifestation is the law of attraction. It suggests that thoughts can shape our lives, and like attracts like. 

Positive thoughts attract positive experiences, while negative thoughts attract negative experiences. 

A Manifestation Journal is an awesome tool. It can be used to define your goals and desires and visualize them. It’s a space to outline for you to explore what you want to achieve and align your thoughts and actions towards these goals.

Here is how you can use the manifestation journal: 

• • Set clear goals

• • Visualize your goals

• • Positive affirmation

• • Gratitude Practice

In the realm of manifestation, it’s not just about stating, “I have everything in me to manifest my dreams.”

While this affirmation is powerful, journaling offers a deeper dive into the specifics of what you’re asking for. In manifestation, being specific is the key.

However, before we get super specific, we must ensure we are asking for the right thing—the exact desire that truly resonates with us. The exact thing that we really wish for. Not something we saw on social media, or on our friends, classmates, or colleagues. Through manifestation journaling prompts and reflections, we engage in an intimate dialogue with our thoughts and emotions, uncovering our authentic desires.

Before you close this page and text your best friend “I’ve finally mastered manifestation!”. Here’s the somewhat discouraging truth: the steps above are NOT the end of your manifestation journey.

The most crucial steps are taking action and working consistently towards your goal. Some may focus more on setting the goal and visualization part. They are important, but it is difficult to accomplish anything without putting the effort on your part. Manifestation requires effort on your part—this is where the real magic happens.

Even if your goal is to win the lottery, you still have to drive to the lottery station and buy a lottery ticket. In fact, many lottery winners buy the lottery consistently over months or even years before actually winning it. 

It works by keeping your mind on your goals. It works by keeping your intentions clear. Writing, visualizing, and affirming reinforces belief in your capabilities and the reality of your dreams.

Most importantly, it helps you align your thoughts and actions with your desires, therefore increasing the likelihood of achieving them. 

(Related Article: How Did I Manifest A Side Hustle and an Extra $5,000 in 2 Months?)

Understanding Shadow Work Journals

What is Shadow Work? 

Shadow work is a concept first introduced by psychologist, Carl Jung. It refers to exploring the unconscious parts that we usually suppress or deny. Parts that include memories, feelings, or past that we think are “dark” or unacceptable. 

What is Shadow Work Journal? 

A Shadow Work Journal is a space where you explore these hidden parts of yourself. Through prompts, you confront and process suppressed emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. It’s a tool for self-awareness, healing, and growth.

Here is how you can use the shadow work journal: 

• • Identify your shadows: in this step, you get to identify the aspects of yourself that you have been avoiding, whether unconsciously or actively. If you feel like a little help in identifying your shadow, you may talk to a therapist online.

• • Reflect and write: the prompts will guide you to dive deeper into those shadows. Prompts may include “What triggers me and why?”. 

• • Accept and integrate: here, you will reflect on what you have written. Do you see a pattern? Can you see the origin of the darkness? Eventually, you want to accept that darkness is what shapes who you are today.

In the realm of self-discovery, it’s not just about acknowledging, “I have hidden parts of myself that need healing.”

While this recognition is powerful, your wounds are not likely to heal overnight simply as that. Journaling offers a deeper dive into the specifics of your shadows. 

Once you’ve identified your shadows, it’s time to reflect and write about them. I know this could be an intimidating process, but it’s essential for healing. Moreover, writing them down helps you understand the root of these shadows and their impact on your life.

But again, here is not the moment when you drop your phone and yell “I’ve mastered shadow work!!”. 

If your goal is to heal past wounds, you still have to make the effort to embrace those wounds. This means accepting them as part of who you are, while also understanding that they don’t define your worth. You are not your shadow. You are not your worst days. I hope you can understand that! 😉 

Last but not least, if your shadow was formed by someone who hurt you deeply, the last crucial step would be to forgive and let go (click here for a free workbook on how to let go). Processing and releasing past hurts will free you from lingering negativity. 

Difference between Manifestation Journal and Shadow Work Journal 

The purposes of each of them are different. Manifestation Journal focuses on creating and attracting positive outcomes, while Shadow Work Journal focuses on healing and integrating suppressed aspects of yourself. 

The desired outcome of the manifestation journal is achieving personal goals and desires, while the shadow Work Journal focuses on achieving self-awareness and emotional balance.

If you ask me which one is for you, I would say we should all give both journals a try. After all, shadow work and manifestation are two sides of the same coin. They both guide us toward a fuller, more authentic life. 

Shadow Work Journals help us understand and heal the parts of ourselves we’ve hidden away, allowing us to move forward without the weight of unprocessed emotions. They bring clarity, self-compassion, and deep healing.

On the other hand, Manifestation Journals focus on our dreams and aspirations. They empower us to define what we truly want and take actionable steps toward achieving those desires. 

Remember, the journey to self-discovery and personal growth is continuous. In fact, many people took months or even years before truly experiencing profound healing and empowerment.

So, start your journaling journey today. Embrace your shadows, dream big, and watch as your life transforms in unimaginable ways. The power lies within you—use it to cultivate the life you desire.

Journaling Prompts for Manifestation

• • Write 5-10 affirmations that align with your goals and desires. Example: “I am confident, successful, and attract abundance into my life.”

• • List at least 5 things you are grateful for today. Example: “I am grateful for my supportive family, my health, my job, the opportunities that come my way, and my creativity.”

• • Describe your ideal life in detail as if it has already happened. Include all aspects such as career, relationships, health, and personal growth. 

• • Write a letter to your future self, describing all the amazing things you have achieved and how your life has transformed.

Journaling Prompts for Shadow Work

• • What triggered your strong emotional response?

• • How did you feel about this situation?

• • Why do you think this situation triggered you?

• • What made you stressed out?

• • What underlying beliefs or fears might be contributing to this stress?

• • What are you insecure about?

• • How does this insecurity manifest in your life?

Additional Resources 

1. 1. Talk to a therapist online: the Online-Therapy is a professional and affordable program that offers weekly therapy sections, worksheets, diary, activity plan and more.
   2. Get this free 5-Page workbook: The Secret of Healing and Letting Go.

*Please note that some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me to keep the blog going and continue to provide valuable content. Thank you for your support!*