Thanksgiving is the perfect time to discuss the benefits of keeping a gratitude journal. I’ve done this since April. Although fancy journals are available, I didn’t invest in one. I simply use a small spiral notebook to jot down five things I’m grateful for. I do this daily. Since I keep the notebook near my toothbrush, I remember to do it and haven’t missed a day.
If you Google the benefits of expressing gratitude, you’ll discover that research shows it reduces stress, increases optimism, improves physical health, helps with sleep and fatigue, and makes a person less materialistic and more satisfied with life.
As I glance over my list of some 1,000 items, I notice the “biggies” which include the blessings of family and friends. I also see the life-savers that list the wisdom and skill of medical professionals, but I’m struck by how many “small” items bring me joy. I must agree with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle who said, “It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important.”
Here’s a sample from my list. I’m guessing you’ll relate to a few of them.
A brilliant sunrise announcing a new day.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
The early morning bird song of the cardinal. Cheer, cheer, cheer.
An unhurried morning lounging around in my warm, fluffy robe.
A simple breakfast of yogurt, blueberries, granola, and Wisconsin maple syrup.
Slipping into my comfy bellbottoms and knowing I do not need to impress anyone and can stay in them all day.
The convenience afforded by appliances or machines like leaf blowers and helpful gizmos like timers.
A shop vac to clean up dog vomit. (A story for another time.)
Being able to arrange, free of charge, for a personal shopper to gather grocery items allowing me simply to pick them up.
A vigorous, sweat-inducing game of tennis or pickleball.
A block of time in which I can write.
The talented critiquers who let me know what my writing needs and what I’m doing well.
Discovering that the twenty-year-old cactus from my mother bloomed overnight and has three gorgeous white flowers.
The goofy face of an alpaca who charmed me when I visited a dude ranch.
Biting into a crisp MacIntosh apple.
Walking the dog in the woods on a crisp, sunny morning.
Picking up a deli chicken at Kwik Trip or the grocery store for an easy lunch.
My husband’s laugh when our dog once again gets the better of us by spitting out the allergy pill we thought we’d cleverly hidden in the meatball.
The smell of baking crescent rolls.
Sitting on the couch in a stream of sunlight and reading a good book.
Discovering a new place for a Friday Night Fish fry. (Norm’s in Lyndon Station.) Come early, or you won’t get a seat.
The delight on my grandson’s face when he hears there’s dessert.
A sunset that colors the world in yellows, oranges, and reds.
The cheery downtown Christmas lights and the impressive Tree of Light by the Dells’ River Walk.
The goodnight hug my husband and I share, sometimes with a puppy dog sandwiched in between.
If you’re interested in improving your health and well-being, place a notebook and pen near your toothbrush. Jotting down the things you’re grateful for, large and small, just may improve your life.
P.S. I'd love to hear how you filled in some of the blanks.
2 Replies to “How a Small Gratitude Journal Can Have a Big Impact ”
You have inspired me to re-introduce my Gratitude Journal on a daily basis. Thank you
i am grateful for you stories.
Thank you, Debbie. I quickly write in my gratitude journal every morning and truly feels it helps set up the day in a positive light.