If someone were to ask you what you’re grateful for in the present moment, would you have an answer ready to go? Could you easily recall the small moments in your day that bring you the most joy? The simple habit of reflecting on what you’re grateful for can actually lead to a happier, more content life. All it takes is a few moments of your time and a gratitude journal to record your thoughts. Here are our top tips for making a gratitude list in your journal:
1. Choose a journal: make sure its durable and that you love it! The more we appreciate and respect our possessions, however big or small, the more joy we will experience when using them
2. Focus on the benefits of writing a gratitude list/journalling: Understanding why you’re doing something instead of just jumping in will make your new habit easier to stick to. Some of the benefits of gratitude journaling include lower stress levels, a greater sense of calm and a whole new level of clarity. You’ll learn more about yourself in the process and gain a wider, fresh perspectives that could lead to big awakenings!
3. Set aside time for writing: Finding time to write in your gratitude journal can be difficult at first because it feels like another thing on your neverending to-do list, but after you get into the routine it becomes second nature. The easiest way to maintain a journalling practice is by making it a habit. Try attaching it to an existing habit like having your morning coffee or reading before bed.
4. Try using some gratitude journalling prompts:
- Write about a time you were grateful for something a loved one did for you.
- What are three ways to thank someone without saying “thank you”?
- What is something that makes you unique that you’re grateful for?
- Look out the window, what’s something you’re grateful for outside?
- Think about the work that went into the clothes you wear or the house you live in.
- If you had to give up all of your possessions but three, which three would you keep and why?
- Write a thank you note to yourself.
- Pick a random photo, and write about why you’re grateful for that memory.
- Write about something you’re looking forward to.
- Write about something in your life that you have now that you didn’t have a year ago.
- Reflect on a time you made a mistake and what you learned. What are you grateful for about that learning experience?
