How to Start a Gratitude Journal (Even if You Hate Journaling)
I was never someone who enjoyed journaling. I’d start, only to quit a few days later. Staring at a blank piece of paper always left me feeling stuck, with no idea what to write. And even when I did manage to scribble something down, it didn’t seem to have that transformative power everyone says journaling brings.
All of that changed when I discovered guided gratitude journaling. Using prompts and a bit of structure has made all the difference for me. Instead of struggling to find words, I started writing about what I was grateful for each day, and the results were powerful. Here’s why:
Gratitude shifts your focus to the positive – When you write down what you’re grateful for, you become more aware of what’s working in your life, even during tough times.
It lifts your mood – Consistently focusing on gratitude can ease stress, and sometimes, it’s exactly what we need to brighten even the hardest days.
It sets the tone for your day – Starting or ending your day with gratitude can add momentum to your mood and bring a sense of calm or excitement to everything you do.
If you’ve ever felt stuck with journaling, a gratitude journal might be the best place to start. I love how it feels like a small, guided ritual every morning, and over time it’s become such a comforting practice. But sometimes, even gratitude journaling needs a spark of inspiration—and that’s where my Oracle cards come in.
Pulling an Oracle card each morning gives me a unique prompt that gets me thinking in a completely different way. As I sit down with my journal, I’ll pull a card and reflect on what the message might mean for me. I ask myself questions like, “How does this resonate with me today?” or “What is this message telling me about where I need to focus?”
If you’re new to Oracle cards, they can be an incredible tool for sparking thoughts and ideas. I wrote a post all about this: 5 Ways Oracle Decks Will Add Magic to Your Life. Combining Oracle cards with a gratitude journal is a beautiful way to create a morning (or evening) ritual that feels personal, meaningful, and truly magical.
How to Start a Gratitude Journal with Oracle Cards:
Start with a simple gratitude journal – Write down one or two things you’re grateful for each day. Don’t worry about making it perfect; just let your thoughts flow.
Pull an Oracle card as a prompt – Use the card to inspire what you write. Sometimes, the card’s message will give you an idea of what to focus on in your gratitude list or help you see your day with fresh eyes.
Include affirmations and goals – Some journals have space to write affirmations or daily goals, which can bring even more focus and intention to your day.
Let it become part of your ritual – Don’t pressure yourself to journal every day. Start with once or twice a week and build from there.
Over time, journaling with Oracle cards has brought me a sense of peace and clarity, and it’s made me feel connected to something deeper. If you’re ready to start your own gratitude journal, maybe try combining it with Oracle cards to add a bit of magic to the experience.
I love the Oracle decks by Rebecca Campbell and Lorraine Anderson. I also use the Moleskin journals for my journaling. As a left-hander, they work well for me. I also like that they open completely and have a side bar where I can make little extra notes.
“I am grateful for this moment, for the guidance I receive, and for all that I have and am becoming.”
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re curious about trying a gratitude journal (even if journaling hasn’t worked for you in the past), start small. Try jotting down a few things you’re grateful for or pull an Oracle card to inspire your thoughts. This blend of gratitude and guidance can turn journaling into a meaningful, daily ritual that feels less like a chore and more like a moment just for you.
Looking for a little more magic? Be sure to check out my post on 5 Ways Oracle Decks Will Add Magic to Your Life for even more ways to make Oracle cards part of your journey. Give yourself permission to explore, and you may just discover that journaling is something you truly look forward to.
XOXO,
Courtney