Why Everyone Should Keep an Appreciation Journal
It's easy to be thankful when it's a national holiday. Reminders are everywhere. But what about the other days of the year? Most days, we are bombarded by negativity: the bills, car troubles, a leaky roof, health issues, worrying about a friend or relative. Argumentative people in the news and negative images can also cause us great concern. Some days, it seems like the whole world is falling apart.
And then, some of us have to fight our own negativity. Maybe we're tired of our job or have to work with a disagreeable person. Maybe we want something and can't seem to achieve it. Maybe we complain too much or live with someone who complains too much. There are so many things that can sway our daily attitudes and affect the level of our happiness.
A friend recently shared with me her method for maintaining a more positive attitude. She keeps a daily journal of things that are good in her life. I wrote about it in another post and shared her instructions on how we can start an Appreciation Journal of our own.
I've kept other journals in the past and in between all the complaining, I would include a page here and there of things I'm thankful for. But, until now, I've never considered keeping an entire journal just for the things I appreciate. It's only been two weeks since I started, but already, throughout my day, I find myself looking for positive and encouraging things to include in my book and I believe it has affected my thinking. I find myself laughing more with the family and, even though my circumstances have not changed, I feel a little bit lighter, as though I'm not under as much stress.
As I was beginning this journal, I couldn't help but think of a particular verse in the Bible. It's a short verse, but very precise. I spent some time thinking on it and then wrote an introduction page for my journal. I'll share it with you in a future post.
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