What are the things you are most grateful for? Do you keep tabs on these on a daily basis? While I was doing my research on coping with the power of resilience, I came across the Gratitude Journal.  The journal aims to focus on the good things in life rather than the negatives. Even I, on my journey to being the best motivational speaker, could attest to how helpful it is.

Keeping a journal, allows us to be introspective and be grateful for the little things in life that we often take for granted. The Gratitude Journal highlights the people, circumstances, and things that help create positivity in our lives. It is an effective tool for managing our emotions and coping with stress.

How to Start a Gratitude Journal

Though I try to be one of the best motivational speakers out there, I admit that starting one was difficult for me. But as I went through the process daily, journaling became a habit. 

Before going to bed, give yourself 15 minutes of quiet time to recall the events of the day: 

• Was there a person who made your day a little brighter? 
• Was there a positive response to an email or an inquiry? 
• Did you arrive at the office or your meeting early? 
• How was the traffic going home? 

Most of the time, the mundane things impact us more and dramatically change our day. You will be amazed at how many things you can write in 15 minutes. Practicing mindful living through journaling helps you focus on the present moment rather than dwell on the negatives. It teaches you to live mindfully through appreciating simple joys in life. 

The Advantages of Having a Gratitude Journal

Positive Psychology reports that having gratitude correlates with feelings of resilience and happiness. So, keeping a gratitude journal helps minimize stress levels. It allows you, the writer, to have a different perspective on a given situation. As you see things in a different light, you become more aware of the more important things in life. You begin to develop an attitude of gratitude. Also, it helps us learn more about ourselves and appreciate life. 

How to Make Journaling a Habit

Here are ways you can practice gratitude on a daily basis:

• Set aside 15 minutes of your time every night right before you go to bed. If you need to set an alarm or reminder on your phone, do so.
• Start with five things you are grateful for the day. If you’re really into it, you can always be more expressive in your journal writing. You are free to expound on each item.
• Simplify your words of gratitude and make them really personal. You don’t have to impress anybody.

Strategically place your gratitude journal on your nightstand or desk where you can easily access it.

When to Start Journaling

The best time to start a Gratitude Journal is today!

It is impossible to live a stress-free life. There will always be reasons to be anxious or depressed. However, no matter how negative the situation, there is always something to be grateful for. We may not understand why things are happening, but if we focus on the good, then we can cope with the many stressors we encounter each day. We cannot control what happens to us but we can control how we respond to what happens to us.

Write Your First Gratitude Entry Today

I was deeply distressed over the past years, but the Gratitude Journal allowed me to cope with the trials and anxieties. It also made me into the best motivational speaker I could be.  It has given me a new perspective on how I live my life. With that, I encourage you to get that pen and journal ready and start writing.

And if you need any help in starting your Gratitude Journal and discovering more about how you can channel your anxieties, stress, and experiences into gratitude and positive thoughts, let me, Toni Miranda, a motivational speaker and radiant influencer, help you. For me insights on how to build extraordinary confidence, book Toni Miranda as a keynote speaker on your next event! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are additional insights to help you get started with writing a gratitude journal:

How to write a gratitude journal?

Start by listing three to five things you’re thankful for daily, regardless of whether it’s big or small. Keep your entries simple, heartfelt, and focused on specific moments or experiences.

What do you write in a gratitude journal?

When starting a gratitude journal entry, you can write about anything that made you smile, taught you something valuable, or brought comfort during your day. The goal is to highlight what truly matters and nurtures your sense of gratitude.

Can a journal improve happiness?

Yes, allotting at least 15 minutes of your day for consistent journaling can help foster a positive mindset that increases self-awareness. Regularly focusing on what you’re grateful for also makes you feel more content and fulfilled.