Let’s talk about something that’s made a huge difference in my life: journaling and practicing gratitude. As someone with a busy schedule, learning how to slow down, stay calm, and keep my mind clear has been a game-changer. It didn’t happen overnight, but adding a little journaling and gratitude to my daily routine has given me a positive mindset that helps me approach each day with fresh energy.
So, how do you get started? Here are my tips for turning this practice into a 5-minute morning routine that works for you.
- Start Small and Stay Consistent
The key to building any habit is consistency. Journaling and practicing gratitude might feel awkward or forced at first—that’s normal! But trust me, it becomes a habit you’ll love once you stick with it. Just remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s about showing up for yourself each day, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
- Use Prompts to Guide You
If you’re unsure where to begin, look for journaling prompts on Google. Find ones that resonate with you and get your thoughts flowing. It could be something simple like “What am I grateful for today?” or “What would make today great?”
These prompts help get you in the right headspace to reflect and start your day with purpose. Don’t overthink it—just let the words come naturally.
- Turn It Into Your Morning Ritual
Journaling doesn’t need to be a long, drawn-out process. In fact, I’ve turned it into a quick 5-minute routine that I do every morning, and it’s the perfect way to kickstart the day with intention.
Here’s what I do:
- Set your intentions: Start by writing down 3 things you're grateful for that day. They can be simple, like having a cosy cup of coffee or the sun shining through your window. Practicing gratitude puts you in a positive mindset from the get-go.
- Reflect on the day ahead: Think about what’s coming up and set some positive intentions. What do you want to focus on? How do you want to show up for yourself and others?
- Daily Affirmations
I’m a huge fan of affirmations. I love starting the day with a few powerful statements that keep me motivated and grounded. Some of my go-to affirmations are:
- “I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to.”
- “I am worthy of all the good things coming my way.”
- “Today, I choose joy.”
Pick affirmations that resonate with you and help set the tone for the day. Saying them aloud or writing them down really helps you embody that positive energy.
- End Your Day with Highlights
Before bed, I like to reflect on the highlights of the day—things that went well or moments that made me feel happy. It could be something big like completing a work project or something as simple as a walk in the fresh air.
Taking a moment to acknowledge the good things helps you end the day on a positive note, no matter how busy or chaotic things may have been.
Final Thoughts
Journaling and gratitude are small yet powerful tools to help you stay grounded, manage stress, and keep a positive perspective—even when life gets hectic. Give it time, stay consistent, and soon enough, this little routine will become second nature. And who doesn’t want to start their day feeling calm, clear, and ready to take on the world?
You’ve got this! 🌟
Products in imagery used available to shop in our Gifts With Gratitude collection.
