I found this image on Instagram several years ago and it sits quietly by my computer in a small glass frame. That’s when I started a gratitude journal.
Gratitude journaling is the practice of regularly writing down things you are thankful for, such as people, experiences, or simple moments, to cultivate a positive mindset and improve mental health. This intentional act can help reframe your focus from negative emotions to positive ones, foster mindfulness, and build resilience, which can make navigating difficult times easier.
I started small. Just a sentence or two. Yes, I was repetitive. That’s okay.
I found I was grateful for my creativity. I find inspiration in so many things. The problem is harnessing the inspiration so I can refer back to it. So, I added images to my journal. But I made myself choose just one for the day.
In the beginning I searched for prompts to help me. I stumbled across these…
1. Write down any acts of kindness you received or witnessed in the past week.
2. What is your favorite childhood memory?
3. Write down your favorite thing about where you live.
4. What is your favorite way to relax?
5. Which family member makes you laugh the most? When was the last time you spoke with them?
6. What was your favorite trip from the past year?
7. Where is your favorite place to read?
8. Write about something beautiful you saw today.
9. What was a positive experience that came out of a difficult experience?
10. What is something you enjoy doing every single day?
11. Write down the most influential affirmation you’ve ever received.
12. What is something that you are looking forward to this week?
13. What are you looking forward to this month?
14. Write down your favorite way to enjoy the outdoors.
15. What is your most valued family tradition? Why?
16. Write down your favorite meal and where you were when you last ate it.
17. Choose a stressful situation from your day and reframe it in a positive way.
18. What is your favorite outfit?
19. Write about three people who love you.
20. When was the last time you hugged someone?
21. What is your favorite season of the year? What is your favorite thing about it?
22. When was the last time someone made you laugh?
23. What is your favorite movie?
24. What was the last book you read? How did it change your perspective?
25. What is your favorite path to walk near your home?
26. What is your favorite time of day? How do you prefer to spend that time?
27. What’s your favorite form of creative expression? When do you feel most creative?
28. What is the most thoughtful gift you’ve ever given? What is the most thoughtful gift you’ve ever received?
29. What was your favorite holiday as a child? What is your favorite holiday now?
30. List five people you care about.
31. When was the last time you smiled at a stranger?
32. What is a song that makes you feel at peace?
33. What was the last compliment you gave someone?
34. What is a smell that brings you joy?
35. Where were you when you last watched a sunset?
36. Where is your favorite place to meet up with friends?
37. Name three things you’re good at.
38. Where are you most comfortable?
39. What is the most beautiful plant near your home?
40. What is your favorite form of exercise?
Thanks for being here
Louise x