Gratitude journaling? Really?
When I hear “gratitude journaling,” I picture someone with perfect handwriting and a Pinterest-worthy notebook. That’s not me. But for Day 2, I decided to give it a shot.
I wrote down three things I was grateful for:
- Coffee exists.
- I didn’t lose my keys (yet).
- My dog and cat only woke me up once last night.
The Science Behind Gratitude Journaling
Gratitude practices are backed by science. Writing down what you’re thankful for helps shift your focus to the positive, even in small ways. Here’s what the research says:
- Boosts Mood: Gratitude increases dopamine and serotonin, the chemicals in your brain that make you feel good.
- Reduces Stress: Focusing on gratitude can lower cortisol levels, helping you feel calmer and more balanced.
- Rewires Your Brain: Regularly practicing gratitude trains your brain to notice the good in your life, even when things feel overwhelming.
How It Felt
Honestly? Forced at first. I wasn’t overflowing with gratitude, and my list felt more like a joke than anything profound. But as I wrote, I started to feel lighter. Noticing small wins—like coffee and not losing my keys—helped shift my perspective, even if just a little.
Gratitude journaling didn’t fix all my problems, but it gave me a moment of calm. Maybe that’s the point—not to change your life overnight, but to take small steps toward a better mindset.
