My Journey with Gratitude Journaling and ‘Taking in the Good’
In the ebb and flow of life, we often find ourselves in moments where happiness seems like a distant memory. I remember a time in my life, not so long ago, when the stress and demands of my job as a teacher pushed me to my limits, both physically and mentally. It was during this challenging phase that I stumbled upon the concept of gratitude journaling, a practice I first heard about through Abraham Hicks’ work. Little did I know, this simple act would become a beacon of hope in my life.
Every day, I began to write down three things I was grateful for. These weren’t grand revelations or life-altering moments. Instead, they were simple, everyday blessings – my bed, my home, the warm embrace of the sun. It might sound trivial, but acknowledging these small joys brought a significant shift in my perspective. Even on the darkest days, I realized, there is always something to be grateful for.
But it wasn’t just about listing these things. As I learned from Rick Hanson, the key is to connect with the feeling of gratitude. To not just write it down but to hold that sense of thankfulness in your heart for at least 20 seconds. This practice has been a learning curve, especially when triggers from a past traumatic relationship surface. Yet, it’s a journey worth taking.
I’ve also integrated this practice into my journaling routine. Often, my entries start on a negative note, reflecting the complexities and challenges of life. But I make it a point to end on a high note, listing things I’m grateful for. This ensures that I close my journal with a heart filled with hope and warmth, no matter how heavy the preceding pages might be.
Incorporating gratitude into my conversations with clients and friends has also been transformative. It’s about shifting the focus from darkness to love, a task easier said than done, especially when you’re in the midst of turmoil. But trust me, it makes a difference.
Gratitude Prompt for You:
- Think of a simple pleasure or comfort in your life right now. Write it down.
- Now, close your eyes and really feel the gratitude for this thing or moment. Hold onto that feeling for 20 seconds.
If you haven’t yet tried gratitude journaling, I encourage you to give it a go. It’s a small step, easy to incorporate into your daily routine, and you’ve got nothing to lose. Who knows? It might just be the light you need in the shadows.
Remember, in the journey of life, the search for happiness and peace is ongoing. But sometimes, the simplest practices, like acknowledging the warmth of your bed or the comfort of your home, can be the most profound.
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