There are many different ways to live a life of gratitude. Reading the best books on gratitude, for example, can provide you with inspiration and motivation. Even reading about the benefits of gratitude may prove immensely helpful in maintaining happiness. You may be surprised to discover, however, that becoming your own gratitude author by keeping a gratitude journal can have even more positive effects. Read on to find out how you can benefit from writing in a gratitude journal as part of your routine.
Increased Motivation
When you focus on the things that you make you happy and centered, you will soon find that you have increased motivation to pursue more of the things that light up your world. For example, if you are starting a new business and you have a small success, it will give you far more motivation to focus on that win (however small it may seem) than to focus on all the wins you have yet to make. A gratitude journal keeps you objective and allows you to maintain a rational perspective on your pursuits. Not convinced? Try writing down just five things you are grateful for each day and watch the motivation and inspiration flow into your life.
Improved Mood
It’s easy to look around today’s modern world and see that most people prefer an attitude of pessimism. Whether it’s the news cycle or the weather, it is never too much of a challenge to find something to complain about. But what if making a shift toward gratitude is all you need to start seeing the joy and beauty in the world? Keeping a journal is the first step toward changing your mindset.
While thinking about gratitude is helpful, writing down your gratitude has an even more powerful effect on your mindset. When you write something down, it is further solidified in your brain. You may discover this in the way that you or your loved one tend to keep written lists of tasks and goals. Once something is written in physical space, it has a much more realistic and profound impact on your behaviors. A gratitude journal is no different.
Better Sleep
Research data shows that becoming your own gratitude author leads to better, more restful sleep. According to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep. Spend just 15 minutes jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed, and you may sleep better and longer. Better sleep is a major benefit, as the compounding effects of high quality sleep are enormous. When you are well-rested and clear-headed, you are far more likely to have the energy necessary to achieve your goals and pursue larger ones. In this way, it’s easy to see the positive chain of effects that living with gratitude can introduce into your everyday life.
Whether you listen to podcasts about gratitude, keep a regular journal as a gratitude author, or find another way to express gratitude that works for you, it’s important to continue to practice gratitude in your life — even if things are not going well. With the right approach and mindset, you will start to see the type of improvements that make you even more grateful to be alive.