Happy Journal

 

    What is a Happy Journal?

A happy or 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. For instance, having a favourite sandwich for lunch at a school cafeteria or laughing at silly pictures you took with your classmates. When you recognize and record the small happiness or pleasures daily, it can boost your mood and change your mindset to a positive one. Moreover, regularly journaling about the good things in your life can help prepare and strengthen you to deal with the rough patches when they pop up.

It’s extremely simple to start: simply write down (or type) a few things you are grateful for daily. You can use a journal, diary, notebook, or just a piece of paper. If you’re committed to being green or just find it easier to do things digitally, you can use one of the many gratitude apps or even a simple Word document!

Happy journaling, like many gratitude practices, can lower your stress levels;

• It can help you feel calmer, especially at night.
• Journaling can give you a new perspective on what is important to you and what you truly appreciate in your life.
• By noting what you are grateful for, you can gain clarity on what you want to have more of in your life, and what you can do without.
• Happy journaling can help you find out and focus on what really matters to you.
• Keeping a happy journal helps you learn more about yourself and become more self-aware.
• Your happy journal is for your eyes only, so you can write anything you feel without worrying about judgment from others.
• On days when you feel blue, you can read through your happy journal to readjust your attitude and remember all the good things in your life.

It won't take more than 15 minutes to write down something you feel thankful for. Yet, the benefits of happy journaling are numerous.