A gratitude journal is a place for you to record the things that make you feel happy.
It's such a simple thing to do but lots of people say they feel calmer or even happier after writing down things that made them happy. At times when things feel difficult or uncertain, it might be helpful to be able to look at this record of happiness to help remind you that things will not always feel this way.
There are lots of different ways to keep this journal. It could be as simple as a list written on a piece of paper, in a notebook or on your phone. But there are also beautiful examples where people use fancy lettering and illustrations to make their gratitude journals a place for being creative. Searching on social media for #GratitudeJournal will give you lots of inspiration. Some of our favourites are:
One of the great things about journaling is that it is totally private, which means you make the rules! How often you write in your journal is up to you. Some people write in their gratitude journal every day but others use it less often.
Feeling creative? Here are 3 ideas to try
1) Try making your own notebook out of recycled paper!
We love this guide but there are plenty more online. Try searching for 'junk journal' or 'book binding' tutorials.
2) Learn the art of hand lettering
A quick internet search for 'hand lettering tutorials' will bring up a huge range of videos and worksheets so find the style of writing you like best and have a go. This playlist on YouTube is a great place to start:
3) Use templates
If drawing isn't your thing, there are lots of downloadable templates to make your journal look gorgeous. We have created a free printable with a different colour of the rainbow for every day of the week.
