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The Gratitude Journal: A Practice for Heart and Soul

Journaling has become one of my favourite ways to either start or end my day. It’s such a simple practice, yet it holds immense power in shaping how I approach life. For me, journalling acts as a soft landing to close out a day and as a launchpad for the new one ahead.


The beauty of gratitude journaling is its simplicity—it doesn’t require a ton of time or effort, just a commitment to show up every day. Like most things in my life, I need to feel a sense of purpose to stick with something. For me, this practice is my way of reconnecting with the beauty, abundance, and positivity that’s already present in my life. It’s a conscious pause to appreciate the amazing people, places, opportunities, and even tiny, fleeting moments that surround me.


But it doesn’t stop there. I also use my gratitude journal to plant seeds for the future by noting three things I desire to create. This part is where I let my dreams spill out onto the page—no limits, no judgment, just the resonance of my deepest desires.


How to Get Started


Here’s a simple structure you can use to make this practice your own:


3 Things I’m Grateful For




You can simply list them, describe them, or write why they bring you joy. Don’t overthink it. Gratitude can start with the obvious—family, friends, health—but soon you’ll find it in the smaller things: the sun shining through the window, the bird chirping outside, or the kindness of a stranger. Gratitude opens a flow, and once it starts, it often reveals the magic in the everyday.


An open journal with a gold pen and the words 'Today I am grateful for' written in black ink

3 Things I Desire to Create





This is where I remind myself to dream. Big or small, everything counts. It could be as simple as creating more time for myself or something grand like manifesting a holiday, a business goal, or a healthier body. You can also hold space for the dreams and aspirations of others, sending them love, peace, or abundance from a place of pure intention. Think of it as a creative prayer for the world.



Want to Take It Further?


Find a Journal Buddy:Like with any practice, having an accountability partner can make all the difference. I often suggest voice messaging your entries to a buddy. It not only keeps you accountable but also gives you the joy of hearing someone else’s gratitude and aspirations. It can be deeply inspiring and a wonderful way to stay motivated.


Choose the Right Journal:

Pick one that feels inviting to write in but not so precious you’re scared to “ruin” it. Journals are for messy, raw, real thoughts—they’re not about being perfect.


Other Tips for Success:

  • It takes 21 days to build a habit, so be consistent, even on tough days.

  • Keep it simple. On challenging days, write one thing instead of three, but don’t skip the practice altogether.

  • Keep your tools together. Leave your pen in the journal and place it somewhere easy to access.

  • Sync In. Choose a time of day that works for your life rhythm—morning reflection, a mid-day pause, or an evening wind-down.



A table with a beautiful leather journal, candles and a small clear glass with pink flowers



Why It Matters


Journaling, for me, is more than just a feel-good exercise. It’s an anchor, a guide, and a creative tool for self-reflection and intentional living. Gratitude journaling, in particular, shifts my perspective and reconnects me to what’s real, what’s working, and what’s worth celebrating.

When life gets noisy, and the to-do lists feel endless, this practice gently brings me back to myself. And over time, I’ve realised the immense power in that—a consistent, simple 5-minute pause can ripple out into all areas of my life.



So, grab a journal, keep it close, and start today. Dream big, celebrate small, and let this practice guide you into a life filled with appreciation, intention, and infinite possibilities.


Gratitude transforms what we have into enough and more. ✨


Warmest,

Martine


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