There’s something about mornings that call for stillness, don’t you think? It’s like the world hasn’t quite revved up yet, and in that quiet space, we’re given a choice—a chance to decide how we’ll frame our day. For years, I overlooked this gift, waking up in a flurry of to-dos and stress, never pausing to set the tone. Then I discovered gratitude journaling, and sweet friend, it changed everything.
I don’t mean the kind of change that feels like fireworks or flipping a switch. Gratitude journaling is more like the gentle warming of the sun as it rises—subtle, steady, but undeniably powerful. It reshaped my heart and refocused my mind, especially on those tough days when everything feels heavy.
Finding Gratitude in the Everyday
If you’re anything like me, the idea of gratitude journaling might sound nice in theory, but maybe a bit overwhelming in practice. I used to think I needed profound moments or poetic words to fill my journal. But gratitude isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about noticing the beauty tucked into the corners of our lives.
It’s the steam curling off your morning coffee. The way the light dances on the kitchen table. The sound of laughter from your kids—or even the simple fact that your feet hit the floor this morning. Gratitude journaling teaches us to stop looking for “perfect” moments and start celebrating the ordinary ones that God sprinkles in abundance.
How to Start Your Gratitude Practice
Let’s make this as simple and inviting as possible. Here’s what I do:
Set the Mood: Light a candle or cozy up with a soft blanket. I like to have my journal and pen right by my favorite chair, so it’s all ready to go.
Write Three Things: Every morning, I jot down three things I’m grateful for. Some days, they’re big—like an answered prayer or good news from a friend. Other days, they’re small—like the way my dog snuggles up next to me or the crisp smell of fall in the air.
Feel the Gratitude: This is the secret sauce. Take a moment to let those three things soak into your heart. Picture them. Smile about them. Whisper a “thank you” to God for them.
Look for Patterns: Over time, you’ll notice little threads of joy that repeat themselves. For me, it’s nature, my family, and the small ways God shows up in the mundane. These patterns remind me of what matters most when life feels overwhelming.
Gratitude on the Hard Days
Gratitude journaling isn’t just for sunny seasons. Oh, friend, it’s a lifeline on the cloudy ones too. On days when my heart feels heavy, I cling to gratitude like a buoy in the storm. I look for the smallest glimmers of hope—a stranger’s kindness, a good meal, or the promise of God’s faithfulness. Writing them down feels like planting seeds of hope in the middle of a desert.
And you know what? Those seeds always grow. They soften the edges of my pain, reminding me that even in hard seasons, God is still good.
Why Gratitude Changes Everything
Here’s the thing: Gratitude journaling doesn’t change your circumstances, but it does change you. It shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s abundant, from what’s wrong to what’s beautiful. It turns your heart toward the One who gives good gifts and opens your eyes to just how much you’ve already been given.
So grab a journal, sweet friend. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Let it be messy and honest and full of real life. Start today, right where you are. And watch as this simple practice fills your heart with joy, peace, and a deep knowing that even on the hardest days, there’s always something to be grateful for.
Here’s to gratitude—and the way it brings light to our lives.
XO,Your Hope Dealer Girl
My goal is to always help you handle life with grace and peace.
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