As we move into November, the season of gratitude is upon us. It’s the perfect time to reflect on the things we’re thankful for, especially with the holiday season fast approaching.
Gratitude journaling is a simple yet transformative practice that can help us focus on the positive, even amidst our busiest days.
This post will not only provide journal prompts to guide your practice but also offer gratitude journaling examples to show how easy it is to incorporate this into your daily routine.
Why Gratitude Journaling Matters
At its core, gratitude journaling is about shifting your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in your life. Studies have shown that this type of journaling can lower stress, increase happiness, and improve overall mental health.
Whether you’re new to this practice or already have a habit of writing, these gratitude journaling examples will help spark fresh ideas and keep you inspired throughout November.
Gratitude Journaling Examples
Here are some gratitude journaling examples that show how simple it can be to reflect on the positive aspects of your life.
1. Daily Moments of Joy
Write down three small things you’re grateful for today. It could be a delicious cup of coffee, a quiet moment with a book, or the sound of your child’s laughter. Remember, no win is too small!
Example: Today, I’m grateful for the quiet 10 minutes I had with my morning coffee before the day’s chaos. I’m also thankful that my toddler helped me make breakfast—it was a messy but fun moment together. Lastly, I’m grateful that I finished a project at work that I’d been putting off for a week. Small steps, but they made a difference.
2. People Who Brighten Your Life
Who are the people in your life that make you feel supported, loved, or inspired? Write about someone who positively impacts your day-to-day life and why you appreciate them.
Example: “I’m grateful for my husband. He surprised me this weekend by letting me sleep in and bringing me a warm cup of coffee!”
3. Challenges as Lessons
Reflect on a recent challenge or obstacle you faced. What lesson or positive takeaway can you find in that experience? Sometimes our greatest growth happens during difficult times.
Example: “While losing important data on my computer was stressful, I’m grateful that it wasn’t everything and reminded me that backing up files is important. This issue has reminded me of the importance of backing up your files and images and I’ve created a regular quarterly cadence to address this.”
4. Appreciating the Simple Things in Nature
Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature. Whether it’s a beautiful sunset, the changing leaves, or the sound of rain, describe what in nature brings you peace and joy.
Example: “This morning, I was struck by the beauty of the fall leaves outside my window. I’m thankful for the vibrant oranges and reds that remind me of the changing season. It made me pause and just breathe for a moment.”
5. Acts of Kindness
Think back to a moment when someone did something kind for you, big or small. How did that act of kindness make you feel? How can you pay it forward to someone else?
Example: “Today, I’m grateful for the kindness of a stranger who said she liked my dress. It was a small gesture, but it made me smile and feel beautiful.”
6. A Grateful Heart for Your Home
Our homes are often the center of our daily lives. What are you most thankful for about your home, whether it’s a cozy corner, a well-organized kitchen, or simply having a roof over your head?
Example: “I’m grateful for my cozy little corner in the living room, where I can unwind with a cup of coffee. It’s a space that brings me comfort and reminds me to slow down, even on the busiest of days.”
7. Celebrate Your Strengths
We often forget to show gratitude for ourselves! What are your personal strengths that you’re thankful for? Write about a skill, talent, or quality that makes you proud of who you are.
Example: “I’m thankful for the progress I’ve made in setting boundaries. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve noticed how much lighter I feel by prioritizing my own needs and saying ‘no’ when necessary.”
8. Grateful for the Present Moment
Take a deep breath, look around, and soak in the present. What in this exact moment are you most thankful for? This practice of mindfulness can help us see the beauty in the now.
Example: “Right now, I’m grateful for this moment of stillness. My toddler is at school for the morning, and I have a few minutes to breathe, read emails, and enjoy my coffee. These small breaks feel like a gift.”
How to Create a Gratitude Journaling Habit
Now that you’ve seen these gratitude journaling examples, it’s time to make this practice a regular part of your routine. Here’s how to get started:
- Choose a consistent time: Whether it’s in the morning with your coffee or just before bed, carve out a few minutes for your gratitude practice.
- Start small: You don’t need to write an essay every day. Just jotting down a sentence or two is enough to shift your mindset.
- Use prompts: If you ever feel stuck, refer back to these gratitude journaling examples for inspiration. Journal prompts are a great way to spark new ideas and help you dig deeper into your reflections.
As we head into the holiday season, practicing gratitude can help us stay grounded, even when life gets hectic.
I hope these gratitude journaling examples and prompts help you embrace the practice of being thankful for the beauty in everyday life.
By centering your journaling practice around gratitude, you’ll find yourself more present and appreciative of the little things that make life beautiful. If you need a little extra inspiration, check out my journal products on Etsy, which include themed pages to guide your gratitude journey all month long.
Happy journaling!
2 thoughts on “8 Gratitude Journaling Examples: November Journal Prompts”
Hi Katie! Loved this blog post. It is so important to be thankful for the small things and celebrate them.. we often forget how lucky we really are!
Exactly Megan! Thanks so much for reading and commenting.