7 Best Gratitude Journals for Daily Self Care and Mindfulness
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Gratitude isn’t just for thank you cards and Thanksgiving. In fact, consistent gratitude is kind of a superpower. Studies suggest that those who intentionally practice being grateful can have better mental and physical health, more resilience, less inflammation and even better sleep. Who doesn't want that?
One of the best ways to practice gratitude is with a journal. Like inspirational quotes and positive affirmations, gratitude journaling is a way to get some perspective, practice self-care and focus on the bright side of life. You don’t need to wait to make journaling a New Year’s resolution — the best time to start is right now.
How to Gratitude Journal
Here are two often misunderstood truths about gratitude journaling: You don’t have to do it every day. And it doesn’t erase the bad things in your life. (The point is to exercise your "gratitude muscle," not to magically always feel happy.) These are typically the two biggest obstacles people starting journaling face. Now that you know they don’t really matter, you’re ready to start. Anybody can do it: Procrastinators and cynics are welcome!
There are so many different ways to gratitude journal. You can use a pre-printed journal with mindful or motivational prompts, or you can write in a blank notebook. You can list what you’re grateful for or write longer reflections. And it can be a daily, weekly or even yearly habit. Light a candle and make a calming routine, or just scribble in some thoughts. The best method is the one that feels authentic and doesn’t stress you out about the “right” way to do it.
Personally, I like to do a version of gratitude journaling that I call a reverse bucket list. I don’t write in it every day or even every season, just when it strikes me. Instead of a bucket list focusing on all the things I might never get to do, I write down the amazing things I’ve already done. Sometimes it’s big adventures, other times it’s life milestones or even learning a new skill.
Ditching the expectation that I had to list things every day has let me keep this journal for nearly 10 years. So if you try gratitude journaling but it isn't working for you, don't be afraid to change up how you do it. There's no one right way. Buy a journal, grab a pen and don’t look back!
If you’re ready to start, these are the best gratitude journals for your reflections:
This journal is best for those looking for an all-in-one gratitude journal and productivity tracker. There's space to list what you're grateful for and what's on your to-do list. At the end of the week, follow the prompts for some guided reflection, and don't forget to use the monthly habit tracker to track your progress.
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Chronicle Books One Line A Day: A Five-Year Memory Book
In this journal, each day of the year has its own page, with five slots on it for a new entry every year. Flip to the right day, fill in the year and write down one thing you are grateful for. As the years pass, you will be able to see what you were grateful for on that very same day last year or even three years ago.
Moleskines are the iconic high-quality notebook. Creamy pages, a durable cover and unobtrusive lining make them a joy to write in. This is what I use to journal! I have Moleskines in two sizes, and I love that the folio in the back lets me store keepsakes like photos and ticket stubs.
Rockridge Press The 5-Minute Gratitude Journal
If you want different short prompts every day, try this journal. Each day has four unique prompts to spark gratitude, like "a new door that opened for me recently" and "an unforgettable memory I treasure." Whenever you have five minutes, jot down a few thoughts and watch the pages fill.
Mandala Publishing Gratitude: A Day and Night Reflection Journal
Great for people looking for a structured approach, this journal is set up to use every morning and every night. Start your day by listing what you're grateful for, writing an affirmation for yourself and thinking about what you're excited for.
Later, wind down your evening by reflecting on what you did to make a positive difference and a happy thought to focus on as you go to sleep.
Paper Peony Press Gratitude Journal for Women
If you don't want prompts but find yourself intimidated by a blank notebook, try this journal. Every day has only three lines to write on, so you can't overthink your entries. Each week also has a space to reflect on how to pay it forward to spread kindness and gratitude to others.
Modern Kid Press 3-Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids
This journal is specifically meant for kids. It has slots to write three things you are grateful for, perfect for shorter attention spans. It also offers a blank space to draw or write about your day to encourage kiddos' creativity and self-reflection.
Sarah Vincent (she/her) covers the latest and greatest in books and all things pets for Good Housekeeping. She double majored in Creative Writing and Criminal Justice at Loyola University Chicago, where she sat in the front row for every basketball game. In her spare time, she loves cooking, crafting, studying Japanese, and, of course, reading.
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