A Gratitude Journal Can Make The Difference Between Good and Great Leadership
Truly Great Leaders Are Truly Grateful
By definition gratitude is the quality of being thankful and demonstrating a readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. It is an essential characteristic for leaders to possess. The most exceptional leaders have folded it into their leadership repertoire. If gratitude is not a big part of how you lead then it’s time for you to do the same. Your transition can begin by keeping a gratitude journal.
A gratitude journal is a type of journal where a person writes down things they are grateful for.
It is a tool for practicing gratitude and mindfulness, which can have numerous benefits for mental health and well-being.
Typically, a gratitude journal involves writing down 3-5 things that you are grateful for each day. These things can be big or small, from a supportive friend to a beautiful sunset or a warm cup of coffee in the morning. The idea is to focus on the positive aspects of your life and cultivate a sense of appreciation for what you have.
Research has shown that regularly practicing gratitude through activities like keeping a gratitude journal can lead to a range of benefits, including:
Increased feelings of happiness and well-being
Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
Improved relationships and social connections
Increased resilience in the face of challenges
Better sleep and overall physical health
Starting a gratitude journal is simple - all you need is a notebook or a journal and a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Some people prefer to write in their journal first thing in the morning, while others prefer to do it at night before bed. Experiment with different approaches and find what works best for you.
Here’s an example from my gratitude journal:
"Today, I am grateful for the opportunity to coach my clients and help them reach their goals. It's incredibly fulfilling to see them make progress, build their confidence, and achieve things they once thought were impossible. I am also grateful for the support and guidance of my mentor, who has helped me grow as a coach and expand my skills. Finally, I am grateful for the positive feedback I received from a client today - it reminded me of why I love this work and gave me the energy to keep pushing forward.”
As you can see from this journal entry, gratitude truly is the key to happiness, and I feel lucky to have so many reasons to be grateful in my coaching practice.
How Do You Overcome Resistance to Get Started?
Overcoming resistance to get started with a gratitude journal can be challenging, especially if you are not used to journaling or practicing gratitude regularly. Here are some tips to help you overcome resistance and get started:
1. Start small: If the idea of writing down 3-5 things that you are grateful for each day feels overwhelming, start with just one thing. Choose something that brings you joy or makes you feel thankful, and take a few moments to reflect on why you appreciate it.
2. Make it a habit: Consistency is essential when it comes to developing a new habit, so try to make "journaling" a part of your daily routine. Set aside a specific time each day to write in your gratitude journal, and make it a non-negotiable part of your day.
3. Focus on the positive: When you sit down to write in your gratitude journal, try to focus on the positive aspects of your life. Don't worry about being perfect or coming up with the "right" things to be grateful for - just focus on what feels authentic and meaningful to you.
4. Experiment with different approaches: If writing in a traditional journal doesn't feel right for you, try a different approach. You could create a gratitude jar and add a note each day, or use a gratitude app to track your daily reflections. Find an approach that feels comfortable and enjoyable for you.
5. Practice self-compassion: Remember that it's normal to feel resistance when starting a new habit. If you miss a day or struggle to get started, be kind to yourself and remember that every effort counts. Celebrate your successes and be patient with yourself as you develop this new habit.
By following these steps, you can overcome resistance and begin reaping the benefits of a gratitude journal in your daily life.
To close, world-class athletes have coaches. So, don‘t resist seeking out the help of a leadership coach – we’re here to make you exceptional by exposing you to new tools like gratitude journals.