Gratitude Journal

Being thankful can truly lead to a happier life. Here is a practical way to live with a constant spirit of gratitude.

Create a 'Thankful jar'. A place to store happy memories throughout the year. Then, on New Year's Eve, read them all and reminisce. It is quite satisfying.

 Supplies needed:
Mason jar or Tupperware with lid
Paper (colored paper is fun)
Pen (preferably one that works!)
Scissors (optional...or tear paper strips)

I did this for awhile, but then realized I'm a little too impatient to wait a whole year. A little too uptight to be ripping paper. And a bit too stressed to cut strips of paper. Loving the concept, but it just wasn't practical for me. So, I've done a variation of the 'Thankful jar' over the last few years. Being a writer at heart, there may or may not be a surplus of journals lying around. I now have a 'gratitude journal'.

My husband showed up one day, a sweet little notepad in hand. It has colorful birds on it because he knows what I like. That small token has become more meaningful in my life as I began to fill it with little moments of thankfulness. Snuggling with my baby girl. Going for a nice drive through the mountains with my man. Getting a raise. Enough food on the table.

Instead of waiting for the new year, I read through my entries when I'm feeling worn out, defeated, or need a little comfort. Let's be real, as a parent, the need is often.

Who knows what you'll write in your journal or pop into a jar. But I've found it works best when there is a daily or weekly entry. I keep it somewhere easily accessible with a pen on top. (Closet, kitchen counter, bedside)

We could all be a little more grateful this year. What better way than to start intentionally documenting the blessings in our lives. Cheers to a new year filled with an attitude of gratitude!

Let me know how your 'thankful jars' or 'gratitude journals' are coming along!!