Making gratitude lists might be a good way to lead a more positive lifestyle.If you make gratitude lists a habit, they can be quite useful.It only takes a few minutes and you don't need any special tools to start.You may start to notice the positive changes in your life after a few weeks.
Step 1: Every time you make a list, write down at least 5 things.
A list of 5 gratitudes is doable.Start with 3 things if you are having a hard time.You can number your list, make bullet points, or write down statements.There is no wrong way to do this.If you want to make this a regular practice, you should get a dedicated notebook or notepad.You can create a document on your computer or iPad.
Step 2: To be as specific as possible.
Being specific forces you to examine the world around you closely and give you the chance to be grateful for a wide variety of things.Try to zero in on the details as you think about your list.For example, "I'm grateful that my friend brought me soup earlier when I was feeling under the weather" is a better way to say that."I'm grateful for my cat's soft fur and deep purr whenever I pet her" is a better word to use.
Step 3: There is a lot of detail.
It is possible to make your lists feel more important by focusing on the smaller details.Don't be afraid to tell as much as you want.The little details bring you the most joy, and there is no word limit for your gratitudes.You can write things like: "I'm grateful for the cool, sweet iced tea that I enjoyed with my friends today."
Step 4: The focus should be on experiences and people.
There is nothing wrong with being grateful for things that you own.If you focus on your experiences and the people in your life, gratitude lists will have more impact.The experience at the butterfly gardens is better than the television.It's better if you say "I'm grateful for the scent of freshly-turned earth in my garden."I'm grateful that I can afford to pay for my friend's lunch when we go out together, instead of being grateful to have money in the bank.
Step 5: Don't worry about spelling or grammar, write freely.
Don't get hung up on creating perfectly written sentences because your gratitude lists are for your eyes only.Spelling doesn't matter, either!You don't have to think of the perfect word to write in a natural way.Let the words flow and focus on what you are grateful for.
Step 6: 15 minutes is all you need to make your list three times a week.
Write your list first thing in the morning or at night if you want to start your day with a positive vibe.Writing a gratitude list 3 times per week has been shown to have more impact than daily lists.Make daily lists if they feel right to you.Some people benefit from doing this exercise every day.
Step 7: If you like to write, try writing long-form entries in a gratitude journal.
There is no rule that says gratitude has to be in a list format.If you want to write more in-depth, you can.Limit your journaling sessions to once a week if you do this.Overdoing the process can make it less beneficial.You don't have to buy a fancy journal for this, but you can if you want.
Step 8: If you are frequently on the go, use a gratitude app.
Go to the gratitude journal apps in the app store and choose one that you like.Being able to make your lists anywhere and anytime is one of the benefits of apps.You could make a list on the subway.Notification reminders are sent by apps.If you need extra help with the list-making habit, this is great.
Step 9: If you want to see your gratitudes often, list them on sticky notes.
If you want positive reminders to get you through a tough day, using sticky notes is a great option.You can put the sticky notes in places around your home or workspace where you can see them.They can be put on your bathroom mirror, locker, or cell phone case.If you put a sticky note on your bedroom door, you'll be able to see it when you leave.
Step 10: Make entries even more special by sharing them with friends.
If you can get some of your friends to do a gratitude list, you might want to set aside some time to get together and share some entries with each other.You could meet at a coffee shop weekly and have everyone share their favorite gratitude of the week.Texting a friend something you're grateful for each day is another way to practice gratitude.
Step 11: Motivational quotes can boost your spirits.
It is possible to find and write down inspiring quotes every day.If you want to focus your lists on specific topics or just reflect on them, you can use quotes.