I'm conducting a simple experiment.

Care to join me?

As studies show that the simple act of writing down the things for which you are grateful for can help lower stress levels, promote a better night’s sleep and improve your general happiness levels - I've decided to see for myself.

I've set myself the simple goal to write in a Gratitude Journal each evening for the 365 days.

Who's in? 

Beginning your own Gratitude Journal can be a hard habit to form, but once you get going, it’s kinda hard to stop.  Trust me!  I've only been going for 3 weeks so far and am loving it.  

 It takes mere minutes to do and the peacefulness you feel after putting pen to paper is addictive.

Unsure what to do or where to start yourself? 

Here’s a glimpse at what I'm doing . . .

My Gratitude Journal Routine

Location | My journal sits on my bedside table, along with a pretty new pen purchased just for the occasion (I'm using the Kikki K Gratitude Journal for its simplicity and inspiring words).  It's one of the first things I see when I jump into bed.

Decision | At the beginning of the year, I made a conscious decision to do this, to see the benefits for myself (it is slowly becoming part of my “evening ritual").  I personally find it easier to write at night about the day I've just had, rather than in the morning.  However, as we’re all different, be flexible and find what works for you.

Number | The journal I purchased provides space for 3 things you are grateful for.  Some days I squeeze in more, but I figure 3 is a wonderful (and achievable) limit.  The last thing I want to do is create any stress or pressure for myself, especially right before bedtime.

What | What you write about doesn’t have to be deep and meaningful.   Simply write about whatever you feel at that moment.  It can be as simple as “clean sheets” or “a beautiful blue sky”.  Remember, it’s for your eyes only.

Not in the Mood | If for some reason you don’t feel like journaling one night – that’s ok!  Listen to yourself.  It's all part of becoming more self-aware.

I'll check back in later in the year and let you know how it's going!

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