When you're feeling overwhelmed by loss, a grief journal can be like a caring friend who's always there. More than just a container for your sorrow, your grief journal can act as a conduit of connection to your departed loved one, and help you get to know yourself better.

And while writing about grief from your own viewpoint is undeniably crucial, adding a twist to this practice by incorporating alternate points-of-view can open you up to a deeper understanding of your loss, the discovery of newfound meanings, and a strengthened bond with your loved one.

Journaling from a different point of view isn’t about detracting from your unique experience of loss. These viewpoints not only help shed light on other dimensions of your loss but also foster a deeper sense of empathy towards yourself and your loved one.

It is empowering to step outside of your emotions and see the situation from other angles. After a loss we get so used to telling the same story over and over in the same way. Switching it up can help you metabolize the story, and even help you feel more in control of at least a part of the narrative.

Whether you use these alternative grief journaling prompts for your personal reflection, or intend share your story with others, write honestly and fearlessly. You can always edit afterwards for public consumption.