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 daily went through the process, journaling became a habit. Before going to bed,  give yourself 15 minutes 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. 

What are the advantages of having a Gratitude Journal?

Having a gratitude journal minimizes 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 a grateful heart. Also, it helps us learn more about ourselves and appreciate life. 

How to make journaling a habit?

• 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 and make it really personal. You don’t have to impress anybody.
• Strategically place your journal on your nightstand or desk where you can easily access it.

So when do you start?

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.

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, motivational speaker, and radiant influencer, help you. Let’s talk today and together, build extraordinary confidence!