The Power of Gratitude Journaling
The Power of Gratitude Journalling
Fall is a perfect time to start slowing down and embracing the change of seasons. Fall brings images of cozy fires, warm blankets, crisp mornings and snug sweaters. It is the perfect season to start cultivating a gratitude mindset. One way to shift our focus is the practice of gratitude journalling.
Numerous studies have shown that this simple habit can boost our mood and enhance our overall well-being. Gratitude journaling encourages you to actively seek out and acknowledge the positive aspects of your life, helping to shift your mindset toward appreciation, which can lead to a more positive outlook over time. Additionally, it can improve your relationships with others; expressing gratitude, even in a journal, fosters feelings of connection and trust.
Moreover, gratitude journaling promotes mindfulness by prompting you to pause and reflect, making you more aware of the present moment and helping you become attuned to your experiences.
How to Start Gratitude Journalling
1. Choose Your Medium
You might want to buy a nice journal, or you could use a digital app or just use the notes function on your phone. Choose whichever medium you feel most comfortable with.
2. Choose a Specific Time to Journal
It will be easier to make it a consistent habit if you carve out a specific time each day. This could be writing it with your morning coffee or doing it last thing at night before you go to bed. If you choose different times each day it will be harder to stick with this new habit.
3. Keep it Short
Just choose two or three things you are grateful for and write it in bullet points. This will still be effective and won’t seem like too much work (thus making it easier to build the habit).
4. Be Specific
Choose something detailed rather than being more general. For example, saying you are grateful for your family is less meaningful than choosing a particular moment in the day that stood out to you.
5. Reread Previous Entries
Periodically re-reading your journal can remind you of the good things in your life and promote feelings of joy and contentedness.
Nicola Sheldon, MA, MA (Cand.)
Nicola joins Evergreen Counselling Group as a practicum student having completed the academic requirements of her Master of Counselling Degree. She received her Master of Arts degree in psychology from Glasgow University. Nicola has a passion for listening to people and hearing their stories. She wants to work alongside people and support them on their path to change.
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