Keep A Gratitude Journal
The theory behind a Gratitude Journal is basic: You write down five things (or more) that you are grateful for every day.
So many of us simply go through life and never think about all the things we have to be thankful for. Instead, we fill our minds — and our conversations — with all the things we don’t like. Did you know that feelings of depression are often the result of negative thoughts?
By keeping a Gratitude Journal, you begin to ‘train your brain’ to focus on the things you like instead of the things you don’t like. You reprogram your mind to think more positive thoughts. Very soon, you will discover you are truly appreciating life and all that it has to offer.
Even when you go through dark times in your life and feel you don’t have anything to be grateful for, you would be wrong. There is always something to be thankful for. You may just have to dig a little deeper or look a little harder. For example, be thankful for food on your table, your home, your family, your friends, your health, your pets … or even your comfortable bed. If nothing else, just be grateful you’re alive!
Studies have shown that nurturing a positive attitude results in greater amounts of high energy, more positive moods, a greater sense of being connected with others, and improved sleep patterns. You will also have more enthusiasm, determination, and attentiveness, as well as better overall health.
Being grateful sets in motion an ancient spiritual law: the more you have and are grateful for, the more will be given to you.
Here’s how to get started:
- Keep your eyes open for things happening during the day for which you are grateful. Make mental notes or jot them down right then. Some people carry a small notepad in their purse or pocket.
- Right before bedtime, look back on the day and think about the things that made you feel good … the warm sun on your face, a hug from one of your children, a phone call from an old friend … and write at least five of them down. You can use a blank notebook, a fancy journal, or even your computer. The important thing is to put them in writing.
- Every day, try to look for the positive side of things. Try to see obstacles as opportunities. Remember, the more positive energy you release, the more will return to you.
As your Gratitude Journal becomes more and more a part of your daily routine, watch how your focus begins to shift to a more positive outlook. Pay attention to how people react to you. You may be surprised at the changes that you will experience in your life.