Personal development is at an all time high, and many people are looking for self-improvement tips and to-dos. One thing that tops many of these lists is keeping a gratitude journal or giving gratitude first thing in the morning. If you're wondering what a gratitude journal is, why it seems to be so important, and how you can get started with creating one, you've landed in the exact right place.
Let's start with the basics.
What Is A Gratitude Journal?
A gratitude journal is exactly what it sounds like: a journal full of gratitude. A gratitude journal is a journal that is dedicated to holding all the things you are grateful for. That's simple enough, right?
Why is a gratitude journal important?
People have discovered that exercising gratitude is a great way to elevate the mind into a positive state, which provides a number of mental, emotional, and even physical benefits.
Some benefits of practicing gratitude are:
- helps to deal with adversity better
- provides one with a more positive outlook
- improves self esteem
- improves health
- helps to build stronger relationships with others
- helps to be more generous
- helps to become more forgiving
- lowers stress
- helps to feel happier
- helps to stay focused on the present
- regulates emotions
- increases hope
As you can see, if you value any of the things on the list above, gratitude starts to move up your list of important tasks to complete during your day. Even the Bible emphasizes thankfulness and being in control of your mind. There are several scriptures about gratitude written in the Bible. Below are two that you can meditate on.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Psalms 136:1
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.
God's Promises Scripture Meditation Cards
Now that we've discussed what a gratitude journal is, why it's important to practice thanksgiving, and some of the benefits of giving thanks, it's time to look at how to start a gratitude journal.
How to Start A Gratitude Journal
If you're ready to start a gratitude journal, follow these steps.
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Get a journal. One of the best ways to practice gratitude is to get a fresh journal that you will dedicate to giving thanks.
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Set aside a designated time to write in your journal. Many people like to start their day in gratitude. So, mornings could be a great time to set your intentions for the day and to give thanks for all the things you can think of in your life and in the world around you. There are no rules, though. You can write out your gratitude items at any time throughout the day or night. It's your world, squirrel!
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Write. Write as much or as little as you want. You may want to write 3-5 things you're grateful for, or you can write diary style (in full sentences).
- Repeat. You can do this exercise daily, weekly, monthly, or hourly. Again, it's your world. You can practice showing gratitude as often as you choose.
The practice of keeping a gratitude journal is simple. The only thing you really should pay close attention to is that you stay consistent in doing it. New practices are easy to fall behind on and eventually stop doing altogether. Keeping a gratitude journal, however, can be easily implemented into your daily or weekly life routine if you desire for it to be a part of your regular life.
Need a new journal to start your new practice? Shop here.
