Imagine yourself as a different person, and this person deeply loves and supports you. This other person could be a friend, family member, or mentor — or even your future self. 

Now, write a letter to you from that person. Imagine their perspective. Using the writing prompts below, write a letter expressing why you deserve balance, how creativity can support you, and why being fair with yourself and others makes a difference to your well-being. Grab a notebook, phone, or computer and let’s get started.

5 Steps to Write Your Letter

Step 1: Begin with Encouragement

Start by acknowledging yourself with kindness and appreciation. A few examples are listed below to help you get started — but make this unique to you.

  • “Dear [Your Name], I want you to know that I see how hard you’ve been working…”
  • “You’ve been carrying so much, and yet you continue to show strength and resilience…”
  • “It’s clear to me how much you care about the people and things around you…”

Step 2: Why Balance is Deserved

Reflect on why you deserve balance in your life. Here are a few sentence starters for you:

  • “You deserve balance because…”
  • “Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s…”
  • “You can’t pour from an empty cup, and I want you to remember that…”

Step 3: The Power of Creativity

Connect your creativity to restoring and maintaining balance in your life. Try one of these prompts, or create your own.

  • “Your creativity is more than just self-expression; it’s a way to…”
  • “When you engage in creative outlets, you give yourself permission to…”
  • “Creativity helps you release what no longer serves you, like [insert examples of stress or emotions], and instead…”
  • “Through art, writing, music, or whatever speaks to you, you’re able to…”

Step 4: Encouragement and Affirmation

Offer reassurance and a reminder of your worth with one of these:

  • “I want you to know that it’s okay to…”
  • “You are worthy of taking time to nurture yourself because…”
  • “I believe in your ability to find balance, and I’m here to remind you that…”

Step 5: Close with Love

End the letter on a loving and empowering note. Create your own closing, or try using one of these:

  • “Always remember that you are enough, just as you are, and…”
  • “Keep leaning into your creativity and know that it will guide you toward…”
  • “With all my love and support, I want you to carry this truth: you deserve balance, joy, and peace because…”

Exercise Reflection

After writing the letter, take a moment to read it to yourself, either silently or out loud. Pause and let yourself feel and reflect. How does it feel to receive this support? Can you accept the points in the letter? What else would you say to yourself? 

Now, consider one or more creative outlets you can explore ways to not only create art but also to support your mental health and find balance, well-being, and joy through your creativity. As you pursue balance and creativity, you may find that your ability to stand up for justice in your life and community increases. 

Finally, let us know what you learn! We would love to hear from you and benefit from your experience. Contact us at info@stevefund.org. 

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    About My Digital Sanctuary

    My Digital Sanctuary brings information and creativity together to support soul care, a holistic approach to emotional, physical and spiritual well-being from the Steve Fund. Created by mental health experts who specialize in serving young people of color and their families, My Digital Sanctuary shares the help, hope, and healing we need not just to survive but to thrive.