Reasons why you should write in a gratitude journal
Does writing in a gratitude journal really help? I can definitely say, YES! Journaling has helped me through some really low times and it has also helped me to remember some really amazing times.
When you write in a daily gratitude journal you are practicing the act of focusing on positive thoughts and events from your day. This helps to rewire your brain from focusing on negative automatic thoughts to focusing on positive thoughts. The more this exercise is repeated, the more this positive new habit is reinforced and new positive pathways start to build in your brain.
You will also start to become more aware of your automatic negative thoughts. When you notice you are having a negative thought, you can intentionally “flip” and start thinking about the positive side of that thought, or choose a different positive thought to interrupt and break that negative thought pattern. The more you disrupt the negative thought pattern with a positive thought, the weaker that negative link becomes.
Your positive thoughts will start to grow which will in turn cultivate a happier and healthier lifestyle.
Other benefits of gratitude journaling:
- Helps you to sleep better.
- Ease symptoms of depression
- Lowers your stress and anxiety levels by reinforcing the habit of gratitude and positive thinking
- Pulls your thoughts out of your head and onto paper so you can experience and connect with your positive thinking. Reenforcing your positive thoughts over the negative ones.
- Cultivate a happier and healthier lifestyle.
- Feel more satisfied with your relationships.
- Improve your physical and psychological health.
- Improve self esteem.
- Helps you feel more connected to your world.
What you think in your mind grows and manifests into your reality. Knowing that you have the power to choose what grows; and being intentional about the thoughts you decide to nurture is powerful. Choosing to cultivate positivity and gratitude will help you to project that energy outward into all areas of your life. It will also effect the others close to you. Giving them a more positive connection and experience in their life as well.
I hope this inspires you and I wish you all the best in your gratitude journey!
xo,
Jen