The Gratitude Journal

Some days, weeks and months are easier than others. Keeping a positive, optimist attitude is much easier when things are going right than when the odds are stacked against you and you don’t quite have a game plan yet.

I decided that I wanted to create something filled with all of the good stuff. The things, both small and large that bring me joy and remind me of all of the light in the world. Something that I could turn to when things get rough to remind me that, at one point, it wasn’t like this. Enter, the gratitude journal.

I’ve wanted to start a journal similar to this one for a while, but never got around to doing it. When I received this stunning notebook from Stephanie (pictured above) a few weeks ago, the bright colors and fresh pages inspired me to dive into the good stuff. Stephanie makes the notebooks with her own two hands. And if handmade goodies aren’t enough to keep your heart filled with gratitude, I’m not sure what is. I knew this notebook would be ideal for the project because the pages are durable, which means I can doodle, write and paste to my hearts desire without the book wearing over time.

I started gather some of my favorite quotes and putting together quick prompts centered around goodness and thankfulness. One of the first quote I wrote in it was one that I’d been reflecting on a lot lately. The notebook is very brightly colored thanks to Stephanie’s amazing painting skills, so I feel like every entry in this journal should be just as vibrant and lively. If you’re thinking of creating your own gratitude journal, or even if you already have one, here are some prompts that I’ll be filling mine with that you may enjoy, too!

– Name 5 things you are grateful for in this moment.

– List 10 things that went well this week. Hint, you woke up this morning!

– List 5 people who bring light to your life.

– Write down 5 of your most inspired, outlandish and creative ideas. They’re valuable.

– List ways that you make the world better.

If you’d like a notebook by Stephanie like I have to create your journal, or just because they’re stunning pieces of art, check out her shop and blog. My notebook is Shade 43 and I’m absolutely in love with it. It’s nice and compact which is great for just slipping it in my bag to have throughout the day without it weighing me down. I can’t wait to fill the pages with even more inspiring messages and reminders!

[Tweet “Creating a gratitude journal is a great way to remind yourself that there’s light in the darkness.”]

To sweeten the deal on your weekend, Stephanie is offering a 25% off discount to Ember & March readers! Simply use the coupon code AMBER25 to have your discount applied on any notebook!