‣ Try to focus on the small things that you may take for granted, such as a good cup of coffee or a smile from a stranger.

‣ Write down why you are grateful for each item, such as "I'm grateful for the delicious meal I had because it brought me joy and nourishment."

‣ Take a moment to reflect on each item and really feel the gratitude for it.

‣ If you're having a tough day, try to find something positive to focus on, even if it's just something small.

‣ At the end of the week, read back over your entries and reflect on the positive things that have happened in your life.

Writing in a journal to express appreciation or thankfulness for the positive things is a simple but powerful way to cultivate a more positive mindset and improve your overall well-being. By focusing on the good things in your life, you can reduce stress and anxiety, boost your mood, and develop a greater sense of happiness and contentment.

One funny story about a famous person and journaling comes from the life of Virginia Woolf, the British writer and feminist.

Woolf was known for her groundbreaking literary works and her dedication to women's rights, but she was also an avid journaler. She kept detailed journals throughout her life, documenting her thoughts, feelings, and experiences in her own unique voice.

One day, while working on her journal, Woolf noticed that her pet cat was watching her intently. She decided to write a little note to the cat, addressing it to "Dear cat," and explaining that she was busy working on her journal.

The next day, when Woolf returned to her journal, she found that the cat had left a reply. The note read, "Dear Virginia, I am glad you are busy. I hope you will be too busy to write in your journal all day. Regards, Cat."

Woolf was amused by the note and shared it with her friends, who found it equally hilarious. The incident became a running joke among Woolf's circle of friends and served as a reminder of the importance of taking breaks from work and enjoying the company of loved ones, even if they happen to be furry and four-legged.

Woolf's commitment to journaling is a testament to her creative spirit and her dedication to documenting her life and times. Her journals have become an important part of literary history, providing insight into her thoughts and experiences and shedding light on the world in which she lived.

Here's a fun and creative gratitude journaling exercise you can try:

✓ Get a small notebook or journal and decorate it with stickers, colourful pens, or anything else that makes you happy.

✓ Set aside some time each day to write down three things you are grateful for, but try to make them silly or unexpected.

✓ For example, you could write "I'm grateful for my fuzzy socks that keep my feet warm and make me feel like a superhero!" or "I'm grateful for my cat's funny meows that always make me laugh."

✓ Get creative with your entries and have fun with it! You can even draw pictures or add funny captions to make it even more enjoyable.

✓ Take a moment to reflect on each item and really feel the gratitude for it, even if it's something silly or small.

✓ At the end of the week, read back over your entries and reflect on the positive and amusing things that have happened in your life.

Remember, gratitude journaling doesn't have to be serious or boring. By adding a fun and creative element to it, you can make it a more enjoyable and rewarding experience. Plus, focusing on the silly and unexpected things you are grateful for can help you cultivate a more lighthearted and positive mindset.