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In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and it can be easy to lose sight of the good things in life. When was the last time you took a moment to appreciate the good things you have, or when was the last time you actively tracked the things you were grateful for?
This is where a gratitude tracker can come in handy.
By keeping track of the things you’re grateful for, you can create a more positive outlook on life and improve your overall well-being. And, if you’re a journaler like me, what better way to do this than to combine your gratitude with your love of journaling?
Your bullet journal can be used to track everything from your daily to-do list to your long-term goals, and it can also be used as a gratitude tracker. Here’s how to get started.
Step 1: Choose Your Journal
The first step in using a bullet journal for your gratitude tracker is choosing a journal that suits your needs. Some people prefer a traditional lined journal, while others (like me!) opt for a dotted or grid-lined journal – my favorite is the dotted format. You’ll also want to choose a size that works for you. Some people prefer a smaller journal that can fit in their pocket or a purse, while others prefer a larger journal that allows for more space to write.
When choosing a journal, you should keep these things in mind and also consider how often you’ll use your journal and how much time you can dedicate to it. It’s easy to get started but it’s hard to keep going. If you think you won’t be able to keep up with it, I recommend using a smaller journal – it will feel more manageable!
Check out some of my favorite dot grid journals below:
Step 2: Create a Gratitude Spread
Now that you’ve chosen your journal, it’s time to create your gratitude tracker or spread. This can be as simple or as complex as you’d like. Some people prefer a minimalist approach, while others like to add color and artwork to their spreads. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Gratitude List
This is a simple spread where you write down things you’re grateful for. You can write as many or as few things as you’d like. Some people write down just a few things a day, while others write down more.
Want to re-create this? Here's what I used:
Gratitude by the Day
If you need to be reminded to track your gratitude, this is a great method! By labeling each day, you’ll never miss an entry and you can always go back and fill it out if you forget.
Want to re-create this? Here's what I used:
Gratitude Chart
A great way to track your gratitude without writing anything down is by using a chart or a grid. With a chart, you can print out images of what you’re grateful for and tape them inside each square. This is a great way to track gratitude if you don’t want to write anything and want to keep your journal aesthetic with images.
Want to re-create this? Here's what I used:
Step 3: Make it a Habit
The key to using a bullet journal as a gratitude tracker is to make it a habit, so make sure you set aside a few minutes each day to write down the things you’re grateful for. Some people prefer to do this in the morning, while others like to do it before bed but whatever works for you is fine. You can always fill out your journal while you’re on the go on your commute or even on your lunch break. The most important thing is to make it a daily habit.
What to Track in Your Gratitude Journal
Need examples of things you can track in your gratitude journal? Here are a few examples to get you started:
Personal achievements: Write down things you're proud of yourself for, such as finishing a project, getting a good grade on a test, or learning a new skill.
Acts of kindness: Write down things that others have done for you that you're grateful for, such as a friend who listened when you needed to vent or a coworker who helped you with a project.
Simple pleasures: Write down things that make you happy, such as a hot cup of coffee in the morning, a beautiful sunset, or a good book.
Relationships: Write down things you appreciate about the important people in your life, such as your partner, children, or close friends.
Health and wellness: Write down things you're thankful for related to your health, such as being able to go for a walk, having access to healthcare, or recovering from an illness.
Material possessions: Write down things you're grateful for that you may take for granted, such as a warm home, a comfortable bed, or a reliable car.
Nature: Write down things you appreciate about the natural world, such as a beautiful sunrise, a walk in the woods, or the sound of rain.
By tracking these things in your gratitude journal, you'll begin to see the abundance of good in your life. And, when you're having a bad day or feeling down, you can flip back through your journal!
Using a bullet journal as a gratitude tracker can be a powerful tool for cultivating a positive mindset and improving your overall well-being. By taking a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you're grateful for, you'll begin to see the world in a different light. Whether you choose a simple list or a more complex spread, the important thing is to make it a daily habit and be consistent. So, pick up your bullet journal, start your gratitude tracker, and let the good vibes flow.
I love the idea of a gratitude tracker in a journal. I always seem to make trackers for tasks and things I want to accomplish. This is a great way to ensure that I am staying positive about what I am doing.