Grab a pen and paper and let your thankfulness flow.

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Gratitude is an awesome feeling.

Wish you could hang onto the good vibes of gratitude even longer?

The Power of Gratitude: How Cultivating a Thankful Mindset Enhances Overall Well-Being

One way to do so is to put your thanks on paper.

Its an excellent habit that can carry you through the entire year with a sunnier outlook.

So grab that cute notebook thats been sitting on your shelf and lets get thankful.

Woman Journaling on Yoga Mat

What is Gratitude Journaling?

Much like regular journaling, gratitude journaling can look different for everyone.

It’s a definition that casts a wide netso how you interpret gratitude journaling is up to you.

Woman Expressing Gratitude

Or list as many things as you could think of!

If youre artsy, you could even include drawings of things youre grateful for.

Possibly the best result: people who give thanks more are typically happier.

Woman Meditating on Yoga Mat

Giving thanks could even give you a better nights sleep.

And as we all know,better sleepleads to better mood.

Meanwhile, showing gratitude to others is also a way to strengthen relationships.

Woman Meditating in Bed

When we feel a greater social connection, a happier mental state often follows.

How Can Self-Reflection Promote Happiness?

Writing down what youre grateful for points a mirror at your inner reality.

Woman Meditating in Sunlight

How to Start a Gratitude Journal

Ready, set,gratitude!

Take a little time to contemplate how often youd like to write.

Then consider which method(s) appeal to you.

Cozy Gifts on a purple background

Finding a journal that appeals to you visually can make gratitude writing a regular habit.

Whether thats an attractive leather-bound book or Lisa Frank-style 90s spiral throwback, you do you.

And remember that a real journal isnt the only option.

Woman Journaling on Yoga Mat

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Start each day writing down your thanks, then keep it in sight all day long.

Most importantly: just get writing.

Try habit-stacking gratitude journaling onto something else you already do regularly.

Woman Drawing Her Thoughts

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(Let your bedtime tooth brushing or morning coffee be a reminder to get writing, for example.)

Or if you already journal, theres nothing wrong with simply adding a thankfulness section to your regular writing.

As long as youre identifying and expressing thanks, your brain and body will benefit.

Tips for Keeping a Gratitude Journal

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