Why Gratitude Journaling Changed My Mindset (And How to Start Yours)
Hey friends! 💛
Today, I want to dive into something that’s been a total mindset shift for me on my wellness journey: gratitude journaling. It’s simple, it’s free, and honestly? It’s one of the most powerful habits I’ve ever added to my routine.
I know it might sound a little cliché—“be grateful!”—but hear me out. When I first started focusing on my wellness, I was searching for something that felt manageable. Eating better, working out... those were goals, but I needed something that felt doable even on my hardest days (especially after long EMS shifts 😅).
That’s when I stumbled on gratitude journaling.
How It Started
It all began super small. I challenged myself to write down three things I was grateful for every night before bed. Some days, it was big stuff—like my health or supportive family. But honestly? Most days, it was tiny things, like:
The way my coffee tasted that morning ☕
A kind message from a friend 💬
Watching my dogs play 🐶🐶
At first, it felt a little... awkward. I wondered if it was “enough” or if I was doing it “right.” But after just a couple of weeks, something amazing happened: I started noticing the good stuff more often—even while it was happening. ✨
How It Changed My Mindset
Here’s what shifted for me:
I went from focusing on everything going wrong to finding the little wins.
My stress levels dropped because I was training my brain to look for the positive.
I became way more present and mindful in my daily life.
Even on my hardest days, I could always find something good—and that felt powerful.
Gratitude journaling helped me stop spiraling in overwhelm and anchor myself in the good that was already there. And the coolest part? Science backs it up! Studies show that practicing gratitude regularly can:
Boost your mood 💫
Improve sleep 😴
Strengthen your resilience 💪
Even support your physical health ❤️
How to Start (No Overthinking Required!)
If you’ve never tried it before, or you’ve fallen off the journaling train (been there 🙋♀️), here’s my simple method to get started:
1️⃣ Pick your time.
I do mine at night because it helps me reflect and wind down, but you can do it anytime.
2️⃣ Keep it simple.
I literally write:
Today I’m grateful for:
3️⃣ Let it be imperfect.
Don’t stress if some days feel repetitive or “small.” It all counts.
4️⃣ Bonus tip: Pair it with another habit.
(Hello, habit stacking!) I do mine right after my brain dump at night, so it flows naturally.
Want to Take It Deeper?
Once you’re in the habit, you might want to expand a little. Some nights, I’ll add a quick reflection like:
✨ “Why does this make me feel grateful?”
or
✨ “How did this positive thing impact my day?”
This isn’t a must, but it helps deepen the practice if you’re craving more.
Ready to Try?
I’d LOVE to hear if you’re starting (or restarting!) a gratitude journaling habit. 💬 Drop a comment sharing what you’re grateful for today—or tell me if you’ve ever tried this before.
Trust me: This simple habit can spark big changes in your mindset, your mood, and your overall wellness journey. 💛 Let’s make gratitude a daily thing!
Big hugs,
Erin
