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Gratitude journals are frequently confused with spiritual journals or happiness journals. In reality, many people keep away from gratitude journals because of the idea that they may promote some type of religious agenda.
The truth is, gratitude journals have nothing to do with spirituality or religion. It’s simply a notebook where you write down things you are grateful for every day. Because focusing on the positive aspects of your life can lead to greater happiness, peace of mind, and reduce the stress levels we all have at some point in our lives.
If you’re hesitant about why you should start a gratitude journal or what the gratitude journal benefits are because you’re unsure whether it’s worth the time in your already hectic schedule. Or you simply don’t know where to start, then keep reading as we dive into the details.
💡 Are you just looking for a template to get started with a gratitude journal with minimal fuss? Then check out our 30-day Gratitude journal that you can easily print at home today!
What is the importance of gratitude?
Gratitude is one of the most important emotions a person can feel. It is the glue that binds people together, and it is the grease that makes relationships run smoothly.
Gratitude is also one of the most underrated emotions. Most people think that being grateful is the same as being happy, but that is not true. You can be grateful for something while simultaneously feeling other negative emotions, such as sadness or anger.
In order to be grateful, we must acknowledge the things we have in life that are good no matter how small they may seem, such as:
- Iced drinks on a hot summer day
- The smell of freshly baked bread
- And the kindness people show us
We should appreciate the good things in our lives because they are what make life worth living.
Ways to start a gratitude journal
The first reason people give for not starting a gratitude journal is that they don’t know how to get started.
People often avoid getting started because they think they need to have a lot to say or that the journal needs to be kept perfectly neat and organized.
The truth is, there are no rules when it comes to gratitude journals – just start writing and see where it takes you.
If you’re thinking you like the sound of starting a gratitude journal, but don’t know how to get started, here are a few tips:
Buy a journal specifically for your gratitude journaling
Look for something that feels inspiring to you so you can see your progress over time. It might be covered in pretty designs or have a favorite color. Whatever it is, make sure it feels like something you want to use every day.
There are many gratitude journal options to choose from, such as:
- Gratitude Journals on Amazon
- Buying a plain journal to customize yourself
- Or my favorite method of combining printable pages that you can print out at home and add to a binder like this template for a gratitude journal. (It’s like making your own journal only faster!)
Allocate time in your schedule for gratitude journaling
At the beginning of each day (or week), take a few minutes to write down five things you’re grateful for. This can be anything from your happy family to your cozy bedding to the sun shining down on you.
If your mornings are too hectic to consistently use your gratitude journal. Then consider switching your reflections to the night or any other time you find yourself with a moment to calmly relax. Take a few minutes to write down 3-5 things that went well, even if they were small, and one thing you’re grateful for from that day.
Take advantage of journal prompts & templates
Consider coming up with your own prompts to get you started each day. Some popular prompts include “Today I am grateful for…”, “What went well today?” and “Three good things that happened today.” Or grab some done-for-you prompts instead.
If you’re finding it difficult to get started or feel stuck, investing in a printable journal might be the best way for you to get started. Because they’re already formatted for you, all you need to do is print them out and start writing. It’s even better if they come with prompts so you can avoid staring at a blank page.
What to include in your gratitude journal
Gratitude journals are becoming a popular way to show appreciation for the good in life. But what should you include in your gratitude journal? Here are some ideas:
- Everyday blessings. Include things like your bed being made, the sun shining, or someone holding the door open for you.
- Write about specific moments or events that made you feel happy or grateful. Recalling these moments can help bring more positive emotions into your life – like a funny conversation, a beautiful sunset, or getting a compliment from a friend.
- Include prayers or affirmations of gratitude. Saying thank you for the good in your life can help to attract more good into your life.
- Gratitude for your loved ones. Express your appreciation for all they do for you, thank them for being there, and how much you love them.
- How gratitude has changed your life. Think about what effects on your behavior and mood it has had. What things do you find yourself doing more of, like laughing or smiling?
- People who have helped you. Thank people who have done something nice for you recently or have been there for you during tough times.
- Experiences you enjoyed. Record things like your first kiss, your child’s birth, or your favorite vacation spot.
- Things you’re looking forward to like special events and birthdays. Or simple activities like going for a walk or reading a book.
gratitude journal Benefits
1# Keeping a Gratitude Journal Can Improve Your Mental Health
The first reason why you should start a gratitude journal is to work through any mental health and emotional triggers.
When you take the time to write down all the things you’re grateful for, it puts your mind in a more positive state. This can help you deal with stress and anxiety better and make you happier in general.
Gratitude journal benefits are especially powerful if you’re going through a difficult time. When you’re feeling down, it can be helpful to focus on the good things in your life. Writing down what you’re grateful for can help shift your focus away from the negative and put things into perspective.
To start trying this on your own, recall one good thing you’re grateful for each day. From here, you will see how this goes for you, moving you from a place of depression and sadness towards a position of more positive thinking.
For example, if depression has you feeling negative and there is nothing good left in your life. Starting a gratitude journal will show you that you do have things to be appreciative of in your life. The power of these thoughts can reduce your depression and give you at least one good thing to focus on.
One 2020 study found that practicing gratitude had a modest influence in reducing depression and anxiety, further supporting this. But this is just one example, there’s plenty of other science-backed research here that supports the many benefits of gratitude journaling.
2# Practicing Gratitude Can Improve Your Physical Well-Being
Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can significantly impact our physical well-being. A growing body of research indicates that practicing gratitude can improve our overall physical health, including our immune system, sleep quality, and cardiovascular health. These are just a few of the many reasons why you should start a gratitude journal.
When you first start a gratitude journal, you may not see how it could ever improve your overall health. Consider these specific examples, though:
One study found that people who tended to experience more positive emotions were at a lower risk of developing a cold.
And another study found that people who expressed gratitude for their partner’s support before bed had improved sleep quality and less daytime fatigue.
Research also suggests that gratitude journaling benefits can include reducing the risks related to heart problems. For example, several studies have found that people who showed a positive sense of well-being were 30% lower at risk of developing heart problems.
But how does all this apply to you rather than some artificial lab-based study?
Think of it this way, if you are constantly in a state of negative emotions, chances are:
- You won’t be getting out much
- You’ll find yourself alone or avoiding other people most of the time
- Your motivation for exercising, eating healthy, or self-care will be incredibly low
All of this can negatively affect your well-being as it can contribute to weight gain, social isolation, and other bad habits that can damage your health.
Whereas, by starting to contemplate the things you are thankful for, you will start seeing positive things happen. You are no longer focusing on the negative aspects of your life. This means you’ll become more motivated to look for the things that bring happiness and positivity into your day instead.
This will make you feel more fulfilled as you spend your free time engaged in others and since you’ll be leaving the house and walking around to find these things. Soon, you’ll see a more upbeat disposition as your blood pressure and stress levels decrease, which leads me to my next point.
3# Gratitude Journals Can Benefit Your Mood & Positivity
Most people believe that gratitude is simply saying thank you, but gratitude is so much more than that. Gratitude is appreciating what you have in your life, both good and bad. When you focus on the good, it boosts your mood and creates positive vibes.
Gratitude helps shift your focus from what’s wrong in your life to what’s right. It also allows you to connect with others more deeply because you are more interested in their well-being and increases your positivity.
This is because you’re looking for more and more gratitude in life, and you’ll find that writing your gratitudes will become a challenge. You may find you post three things one day only to want to write five things the next day. This will enable you to focus on more positive things overall.
One thing to always remember about writing in a gratitude journal is that you are trying to find some good in your life, even on a bad day or several. This positive attitude can help you feel more relaxed, calm, and even happier.
So next time you’re wondering “Why start a gratitude journal?” or if it’s even worth it. Remember that it can help you find more positivity and happiness in your day.
gratitude journal Benefits – why Start A Gratitude Journal 2022
At the end of the day, why you should start a gratitude journal is simple. For just a few minutes per day there are many Gratitude journal benefits both emotionally and physically you can gain.
Gratitude journals are a great way to start your day on a positive note and keep your mind focused on the good things in your life. They have many health benefits, including improved physical health, mental well-being, and promoting positive thinking.
Gratitude journals are worth it because they can help you focus on the good in your life, find more happiness, and appreciate the simple things. If you are thinking about starting a gratitude journal, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Find a format and routine that works for you like this gratitude journal here.
- Make sure to write in your journal every day.
- And be specific when writing down what you’re grateful for.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your overall wellbeing and gain these benefits of gratitude journaling, then start a gratitude journal today using the below resources!
