Self Esteem Building Activities Girls Can Do With Just a Journal & Pen

Because confidence doesn’t require fancy supplies—just a safe space and a willingness to go inward.

Let’s keep it real: building self esteem doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, sometimes the simplest tools are the most powerful. Give a girl a journal and a pen, and you’ve just handed her the key to understanding herself, processing her emotions, and building up her confidence from the inside out.

Journaling is a quiet, safe practice that helps girls slow down, reflect, and reconnect with their inner voice. Whether done privately, during group sessions, or as part of your classroom routine, these self esteem-building activities offer girls a chance to see—and celebrate—who they truly are.

No glitter, no glue sticks—just reflection, truth, and heart.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Journaling builds self awareness, emotional intelligence, and inner strength

• You can boost self esteem with zero prep and just a pen and notebook

• These activities are perfect for quiet time, group coaching, or daily SEL routines

• Writing helps girls process feelings, release judgment, and believe in their worth

1. “I Am” Lists

Have girls fill an entire page with “I am…” statements. Start with prompts like:

• I am brave.

• I am learning.

• I am more than enough.
  Let them go as deep or playful as they want—every truth counts.

2. Confidence Countdown

Ask girls to list:

• 5 things they like about themselves

• 4 things they’ve done that they’re proud of

• 3 people who believe in them

• 2 strengths they’ve used recently

• 1 thing they’re excited about
  It’s a quick, uplifting reset.

3. What I’d Say to a Friend

Have girls think of something mean they’ve said to themselves lately… then flip it. What would they say to a friend going through the same thing? Writing it out builds compassion and perspective.

4. “Dear Me” Letters

Invite girls to write letters to themselves—from their future self, younger self, or even their inner cheerleader. It’s a powerful way to explore forgiveness, pride, and hope.

5. Celebrate the Small Stuff

Prompt: What’s one small win I had today? It could be speaking up, trying something new, or just getting through a tough moment. Small = powerful.

6. Strengths Snapshot

Girls list as many personal strengths as they can in 2 minutes. Then challenge them to expand on one: How do I use this strength in my daily life?

7. Self Talk Rewrites

Girls write down a recent negative thought, then rewrite it with kindness.
Example:
❌ “I’m not good enough.”
✅ “I’m growing, and that matters more than being perfect.”

8. “My Story So Far…”

Girls write the story of their personal growth journey. Where did they start? What have they overcome? What chapter are they in now?

9. Identity Word Web

In the center of the page, they write their name. Branching out: words, traits, dreams, and values that define who they are. It’s a snapshot of self discovery.

10. My Confidence Vision

Prompt: What would it look and feel like to be the most confident version of myself? Let them explore through words, lists, or even a sketch in the margin.

Want More Reflection Tools Like These?

The Confidence & Self Esteem Coaching Kit includes dozens of beautifully designed journaling prompts, worksheets, and confidence-boosting reflections to help girls explore who they are and celebrate who they’re becoming. Whether in a classroom, club, or cozy circle, it’s everything you need to lead with heart.

Because sometimes all it takes is a blank page and a brave girl holding the pen.

With Love,
Kate