Writing in the Midst of Chaos and Grief: Writing Prompts for Grounding and Connection

I know I’m not alone in feeling the need to steady myself, acknowledge grief, and admit when chaos best describes what I’m feeling as I process everything happening in the world. When there is so much to do that it feels impossible to know where to start, sometimes writing feels like it can help if I can get myself together enough to write.

How do we stop spiraling? How do we witness pain and suffering and stay connected to others who want change? How do we care for ourselves so we can still care for others?

These questions have been with me this week. I’ve tried to avoid doomscrolling (not an easy feat) and think about how to care for my writing. Despite everything, I still care deeply about my writing and believe in its power to inspire change, foster community, and create connections in an increasingly fractured world. Many of us are reminded of the transformative potential of our words, craft, and art when we reflect on how we’ve been moved by the work others have shared—work that keeps us dreaming and striving toward meaningful change.

When I feel lost, I let myself free write without direction—making space for whatever to pour onto the page. But when the feelings are particularly heavy, when I can’t even bring myself to pick up a pen, I need support to get started, and writing prompts can be a welcome container. 

Today, I want to share three writing prompts that helped me when I felt lost in chaos or grief and needed a way to return to my writing. I share them as an invitation, hoping they might help you, too. But I also share them with the gentle reminder that it’s okay not to write right now.

If closing the laptop, putting the notebook away, and taking a break best supports you, that is enough. Everything can feel like a lot, and taking care of yourself matters most.

These prompts and support for you and your writing are here. 

Subscribe to my newsletter to stay connected, get writing tips and resources, and be the first to know about my offerings and how we can work together.