Expressing gratitude doesn’t require money. It doesn’t require much thought or effort. But it can change our whole outlook on life.
I started keeping a gratitude journal two years ago. It helped me to keep a positive, thankful attitude in the midst of some health problems I was experiencing.
But once those health problems were resolved, I saw such benefit in recording my blessings every day, that I continued doing it. To keep it simple, I’ve just been using the one-line-a-day journal my mom gave me for Christmas.
Every morning, when I first wake up, I read my Bible, pray, and write down at least one line of blessings from the past day. Some days it’s easier to come up with blessings than others, but I can always come up with at least a few good things from the day before — even if it was a hard day.
I’ve found that starting my day by recounting the blessings from the previous day puts me in a different state of mind. And it gets the day started on a great foot! Plus, it reminds me to live with a grateful, thankful spirit.
Will You Join Me?
During the month of November, I’d like to encourage you to join me in this practice. Get creative in how you record your blessings each day: Buy a journal at the dollar store, use a notebook you already have, share your list on Facebook or Instagram, post it on your blog, or write it on a white board or chalkboard on your wall each day. Whatever works for you! The important thing is to take time to recount and write down your blessings!
Psst! Coming later this month, I’m releasing a brand-new Gratitude Journal. We’ll have it available in our online store and it will be available in some bookstores nationwide, as well. If you’d like to go ahead and purchase a copy, it’s available to order from Amazon already.
Are you joining us for the November Challenge to write a list of a few things you’re thankful for everyday? Let us know if you’re joining us by leaving a comment on this post. I’ll be blogging my list of blessings every Monday and would love for you to join me and share your blessings on that post each week, too!
Shelley says
I’m in
Lisa says
I’m joining you. We usually keep a mini pumpkin in the middle of the table in November and each family member writes something they are thankful for each day on the pumpkin with a sharpie. It’s fun to see what everyone writes.
lori says
That’s a great idea!
Keri says
where did you get your journal of mercies copy?
Crystal Paine says
It’s from Scripture Memory Fellowship.
Kim says
Again, thank you for the inspiration! I’m in! 🙂
Andy says
I have just read this post, and it’s a great idea, on the eve of my birthday too.
November 1 – I am greatful for my loving extended family who help me out when I am unwell.
November 2 – Cricket doesn’t get played on Sundays.
November 3 – My family help me with the things i’m physically unable to do.
November 4 – The very generous gift of a holiday, with babysitter included, for my birthday from my wonderful mother.
Robin says
As always your posts are timed perfectly. I could definitely use a good reminder to myself about all the joys in my life and take focus off the stress!
I am in!
Ashley says
I, too, am looking forward to this challenge!
Misty Nicole Overstreet-Roberts (The Lady Prefers To Save) says
I would love to see a few copies open for blogger reviews! 🙂
Crystal Paine says
Email me your address and I’ll be happy to send you a copy. crystal @ moneysavingmom.com 🙂
JP says
Love this idea! I used the “Five Minute Journal” for similar purposes after hearing about it on a podcast. I particularly liked their format because it had inspiring quotes at the beginning of each page.
My favorite was on the first age, “The appropriate response to life is applause.”
Can you tell us what your version of a gratitude journal has inside?
Crystal Paine says
If you click here and go to the “Look Inside”, you can see what the inside pages look like: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1424549302/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1424549302&linkCode=as2&tag=monsavmom-20&linkId=6XGWA6EYMP4UA47E
Barb says
After seeing a friend doing a daily “thankful” status on Facebook a couple of years ago, I decided to follow suit. Since then, each Nov. I do a daily “I’m thankful for…” post. We have SO many things for which to be thankful, and I think we too often fail to really have a grateful heart. This has helped me put life in perspective, especially when I think of all that God has freely given to me.
Crystal Paine says
Yes!
Janet says
Do you mind sharing a little of what the format of the book is? I don’t want you to give it all away but I am wondering if it is similar to your photo above (list of 31 days with a spot each day) or what? Thanks in advance.
Sherri says
Click on the amazon link in the post. You can take a peek inside on the product page. Hope that helps!
Emilie says
I write three things I am thankful for each night before I go to bed.
Ruth says
Been doing a thanks journal for awhile. This month, taking on the challenge from Ann Voskamp to write down 1000 in the month of November. The best part is that it is on my mind all day.
Crystal Paine says
I love this!
Holly says
Sign me up!
Jennifer says
Me too 🙂
Lana says
I’m in!