24 If I Were Writing Prompts
Ever noticed how all the coolest stories start with a simplest of ideas?
Like a seed, that idea can explode into a giant forest of adventures, each story unique like a different tree.
The “If I were…” prompt is especially awesome for writers. It’s like a magic trick that lets you jump into someone else’s shoes, explore totally different worlds, and go wild with your imagination. Doesn’t matter if you’re a pro writer or just starting out, this prompt is like a box of building blocks – endless possibilities to build something totally cool!
So get yourself ready, because we’re about to dive into the amazing world of these prompts and see what kind of storytelling magic they can cook up!
If I Were Writing Prompts
If I Were an Immigrant: Dive deep into the experience of someone leaving their home country to start a new life elsewhere. Consider the reasons for leaving, the challenges faced in the new country, and the emotional journey of missing home while embracing a new culture. What would you take with you? What memories would linger? And most importantly, how would you build a new identity in unfamiliar territory?
If I Were Living in the Year 1900: Transport yourself to the beginning of the 20th century. This is a time before modern technology, where daily life looks vastly different from the present. Consider the societal norms, the role of women, the pace of life, and the technological limitations. How would you go about your day, and what would your aspirations be?
If I Were the Oldest Person on Earth: Imagine being the only living connection to a past era. What memories would you have from your youth that are no longer relatable to the current generation? You’d possess a unique perspective on the evolution of society, technology, and culture. Contemplate the wisdom you’d share and the tales of a world long gone.
If I Were Born in a Different Socio-Economic Class: Wealth and resources can heavily influence one’s life trajectory. Think about the opportunities or challenges you might face if born into a different socio-economic background. How would your dreams, aspirations, education, and day-to-day life differ? Would you see the world through a different lens?
If I Were Living with a Disability: Delve into the life of someone with a physical or cognitive disability. Contemplate the daily challenges, the societal perceptions, and the personal triumphs. How would you navigate a world that isn’t always accommodating, and what strengths would you develop as a result?
If I Were of the Opposite Gender: Examine life through the lens of a different gender. Think about how societal expectations, opportunities, and challenges might shift. What personal experiences would shape your worldview, and how would your relationships and interactions be affected?
If I Were a Caregiver to Someone with a Chronic Illness: Caring for someone with a prolonged illness can be both rewarding and challenging. Delve into the emotional rollercoaster, the day-to-day responsibilities, and the bond that develops between the caregiver and the patient. How would this role shape your perspective on life, health, and love?
If I Were Living During a Major Historic Event: Choose a significant event from history – be it a war, a movement, or a discovery – and immerse yourself in that era. What would your daily life look like, and how would the event influence your decisions, fears, and hopes? Understand the weight of living in times that would eventually shape the future.
If I Were Living Without Modern Technology: Imagine a life without smartphones, internet, or even electricity. How would your daily routine, work, social connections, and entertainment be affected? Delve into the simplicity and complications of such a life, reflecting on the true essence of human connections and the value of time.
If I Were a Peace Negotiator in a Conflict Zone: Envision being the mediator in an area rife with historical tensions, differing values, and political strife. How would you approach parties with deep-seated animosities, aiming to bring about peace? Ponder the balance between diplomacy, understanding cultural nuances, and the immense weight of responsibility.
If I Were an Inhabitant of a Dying Planet: Take a speculative route and consider a scenario where Earth is on the brink of no longer being habitable. How would societies adapt? Would there be a rush to save resources, or a drive to find another home in the cosmos? Dive deep into the survival instincts, the value of collaboration, and the essence of humanity.
If I Were Growing Up During the Great Depression: The 1930s were a time of immense economic hardship. How would the scarcity and societal despair shape your childhood, ambitions, and understanding of the world? Reflect on resilience, the importance of family and community, and the shifts in societal values during tough times.
If I Were a Witness to a Historical Injustice: Think of events like apartheid, the forced relocation of indigenous communities, or other moments where communities faced significant oppression. How would you react, resist, or cope? Ponder on the moral dilemmas, the power of collective action, and the lessons for future generations.
If I Were a Researcher Making a Groundbreaking Discovery: Visualize a scenario where you stumble upon a discovery that could change the world – be it a cure for a disease, a solution to an energy crisis, or deciphering an ancient mystery. How would you handle the fame, responsibility, and the ethical considerations?
If I Were Living in a Matriarchal Society: Switch the typical societal dynamics and imagine a world primarily led and dictated by women. How would laws, societal norms, relationships, and daily life differ? Dive deep into the subtle nuances of power dynamics, leadership styles, and the challenges and benefits of such a society.
If I Were Experiencing Life as an Animal for a Day: Choose any animal and explore the world from its perspective. Whether it’s flying high as an eagle or roaming the plains as a lion, immerse yourself in its instincts, threats, joys, and daily adventures. Reflect on the interconnectedness of nature, the human impact on their habitats, and the lessons they might teach us.
If I Were Living in a Utopian Society: Envision a perfect world where every individual’s needs are met, and harmony prevails. How is governance structured? How do individuals interact, pursue passions, and address disagreements? Dive deep into the facets of such an ideal world, pondering whether true utopia can exist and what sacrifices might be necessary to maintain it.
If I Were Experiencing a Day Without Language: Contemplate a world where you cannot communicate using words—no speaking, writing, or signing. How would you convey your feelings, needs, or thoughts? Reflect on the fundamental nature of human connection, the limitations and powers of non-verbal communication, and the profound role language plays in our lives.
If I Were a Traveler on the Ancient Silk Road: Embark on a journey through time, traversing ancient civilizations, diverse cultures, and vast terrains. As you navigate trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange, consider the risks, the wonders, and the growth experienced on such an adventure. What insights into human history and connectivity would you gain?
If I Were Born in a World Without Colors: Picture a life where everything is in shades of grey. How would this absence of color influence your perceptions, emotions, and understanding of beauty? Dive into the sensory experience, contemplating the nuances missed and the unique perspectives developed in such a world.
If I Were Tasked with Drafting the Constitution of a New Nation: Think of the weight of creating the foundational document for a new country. What values, rights, and structures would you prioritize? Reflect on the balance between individual freedoms, collective well-being, and the lessons you’d incorporate from existing nations.
If I Were Living in an Isolated Monastery: Immerse yourself in a life of solitude, introspection, and spiritual pursuit, far removed from modern distractions. How would this seclusion shape your understanding of the self, the universe, and the essence of existence? Contemplate the benefits and challenges of such a life, focusing on spiritual growth, discipline, and simplicity.
If I Were a Child During a Major Revolution: Picture growing up during a tumultuous time of change—like the French Revolution or the Cuban Revolution. How would such a backdrop influence your childhood games, aspirations, and understanding of society? Dive deep into the duality of witnessing history while navigating the innocence of childhood.
If I Were Given the Ability to Relive One Day of My Life: Confront the weighty choice of selecting a singular day from your past. Would you choose a moment of joy to relive its elation, a regret to right a wrong, or a mystery to uncover a truth? Reflect on the power of memory, the allure of do-overs, and the impact of pivotal life moments.
