Gratitude is an intentional practice.

To get the benefits of gratitude, we need to practice it consistently, which means we need to plan a way to incorporate gratitude into our already overscheduled, overstressed lives.

Setting an intention to practice gratitude is a commitment to do it even when we don’t feel like it. Gratitude is easy when things are going well, but when problems are piling up, the world seems to be falling apart, and we don’t know how we’re going to get through the day, it’s hard to feel grateful. So, how do we shift gears and focus on the good while also acknowledging that we’re hurting and afraid?

One way to practice gratitude is to keep a gratitude journal. Below are 15 gratitude journal prompts to get you started.

1. What’s something that you’re looking forward to?

2. What’s a simple pleasure that you’re grateful for?

3. What’s something that you grateful to have today that you didn’t have a year ago?

4. Write about a happy memory.

5. Write about someplace you’ve been that you’re grateful for.

6. What’s something about your body or health that you’re grateful for?

7. Open the door or window and look outside. What’s something you’re grateful for outside?

8. What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of?

9. What’s a possession that makes your life easier?

10. What’s something or someone that makes you feel safe?

11. What artist, author, or musician are you grateful for?

12. What do you like about your job?

13. How are you able to help others?

14. What public service or organization are you grateful for (i.e. the library or fire department)?

15. What book(s) are you grateful for?