I've kept a journal since I was a teenager. Writing was a natural way for me to express myself. I'd write poetry, short stories and details about my day and my crushes. I always felt relieved after I'd write, especially when I could let go of thoughts I didn't want to or didn't have the courage to, speak out loud.

Fast forward many years later and I am still writing in my journal, but this year while in quarantine due to the pandemic, I decided to start a gratitude journal.

It was so hard to cope with the loss of people, normalcy and the major shift the world experienced (and is still navigating). Those first few months were draining and scary, so I knew I had to increase the frequency and depth of my self-care practices.

Gratitude journaling came to mind. I knew I needed to focus on what was going well in my life and in the world and what I was thankful for, otherwise the negativity and anxiety would consume me. I found a gratitude journal at TJ Maxx with three pre-printed prompts for you to respond to, and then a few pages for you to write more notes. For each entry, I focus on the following: Today I am grateful for…, I am looking forward to… and Favorite part of the day…

A few weeks ago, I received my Life is Full Journal by Cassandra N. Vincent. The journal is designed to support you with “creating new personal narratives and mindsets, renewing your mind to gain clarity, increasing gratitude in your life and eliminating limiting thoughts and beliefs.” You take a journey, through writing, into your soul to cultivate a full, beautiful life you love.

What is a Gratitude Journal?

A gratitude journal is, quite simply, a tool to keep track of the good things in life. No matter how difficult and defeating life can sometimes feel, there is always something to feel grateful for. -Positive Psychology

The Self-Care Benefits?

• It fills you with positive energy that you can share with others

• It gives you strength to deal with the valleys of life

• You create a record of the experiences, people and achievements that bring you joy and you can revisit it when needed

• It relives stress

• By focusing on what you’re grateful for, you are clear about it and in a position to create more of it in your life

Words have power and words give life. Taking the time to focus on, write about and thank God for what is marvelous, good and a blessing in my life (especially during these tumultuous times) has strengthened my faith and has given me the energy to flourish.