Top 20 Gratitude Prompts to Start Journaling

Top 20 Gratitude Prompts to Start Journaling

Written by Benji

Have you ever had one of those days where everything seems to be going wrong, and finding even the smallest glimmer of positivity feels impossible? In those moments, practicing gratitude might be the furthest thing from your mind. But what if I told you that the simple act of sitting down and reflecting on the good things in your life could shift your perspective entirely? That's where gratitude journaling comes in.

Gratitude journaling is more than just jotting down a few nice things. It's a powerful tool that can help you shift focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in your life. Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or just starting out, gratitude prompts can spark meaningful reflection and deepen your daily practice.

In this post, we’ll dive into 20 gratitude prompts that are perfect for anyone looking to begin, or even refine, their gratitude journaling habit. These prompts are designed to be simple yet profound, helping you uncover the hidden gems in your everyday life. By the end, you'll not only have a list of ideas to kick-start your journaling journey but also a deeper understanding of why gratitude can be such a transformative practice. Let’s get started!

Why Start a Gratitude Journal?

Before we jump into the prompts, let’s explore why gratitude journaling is so impactful. Research shows that practicing gratitude regularly can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being. It allows you to focus on the positives, even on days when life feels overwhelming. Moreover, cultivating gratitude helps foster resilience, making it easier to bounce back from life’s challenges.

But here's the thing—starting can be the hardest part. Often, we don’t know where to begin or what to write about. That’s why gratitude prompts are such a valuable tool: they guide your thoughts, helping you reflect on aspects of your life that you may have otherwise overlooked.

If you're ready to start journaling but feel unsure of how to begin, these prompts will make the process both approachable and rewarding.

Top 20 Gratitude Prompts to Start Journaling

1. What’s one small thing that made you smile today?

Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that brighten our day—a warm cup of coffee, a text from a friend, or a beautiful sunset. Reflect on the little moments that brought you joy today.

2. Who is someone you’re grateful to have in your life, and why?

Think of a person who has positively impacted your life. Maybe it's a family member, a close friend, or even a coworker. What qualities do they bring into your life for which you are thankful?

3. What is a challenge you’ve faced recently, and what did it teach you?

Challenges help us grow. Reflect on a recent obstacle and how you’ve grown because of it. What lessons did you learn, and how are you better prepared for the future?

4. Name three things you usually take for granted.

It’s easy to overlook things like clean water, a cozy bed, or good health. Take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate these often-overlooked blessings.

5. What’s something in nature that you’re thankful for?

Whether it’s the sound of rain, the warmth of the sun, or the beauty of flowers, nature has a way of grounding us. What element of nature brings you peace or joy?

6. What’s a recent accomplishment, big or small, that you’re proud of?

Celebrate your wins! Whether you’ve completed a major project at work or simply made it through a tough week, take time to acknowledge your efforts.

7. What is one thing you love about your home?

Your home is your sanctuary. Maybe it’s a cozy reading nook, your favorite piece of art, or simply the feeling of safety. What about your home makes you feel grateful?

8. Think about a book, movie, or song that has inspired you recently. Why does it resonate with you?

Art has a way of touching our souls. Reflect on a piece of art that has recently moved you and why it speaks to your heart.

9. What’s a favorite memory that always makes you smile?

Think of a cherished memory that brings warmth to your heart. Maybe it’s a family vacation, a special birthday, or a meaningful conversation with a loved one.

10. What’s something about your body that you're grateful for today?

Often, we focus on what we wish we could change about our bodies. Instead, honor what your body does for you—whether it’s walking, breathing, or simply getting you through the day.

11. What’s a simple pleasure in your daily routine that you often overlook?

It could be your morning coffee, the sound of birds chirping as you wake up, or the quiet moments before bed. What small routine brings peace or happiness to your day?

12. Who is someone who has shown kindness to you recently?

Kindness doesn’t have to come in grand gestures. It could be a stranger holding the door or a friend checking in on you. Reflect on an act of kindness that made a difference.

13. What’s a habit or skill you’ve cultivated that you’re thankful for?

Maybe you’ve developed a habit of daily exercise, cooking more at home, or practicing mindfulness. What skill or habit are you grateful to have in your life?

14. What is a piece of advice you’ve received that has stuck with you?

Advice can shape the way we view the world. Reflect on a piece of wisdom someone has shared with you, and how it continues to influence your life.

15. What’s one thing you’re looking forward to?

Whether it’s a vacation, meeting up with a friend, or simply the weekend, looking forward to something can lift our spirits. What’s on your horizon that excites you?

16. What’s a challenge you’ve overcome in the past that you’re proud of?

Think back to a time when you faced adversity—and overcame it. Reflecting on past accomplishments reminds you of your inner strength.

17. What’s something you’ve learned recently that has expanded your perspective?

Life is full of learning opportunities. Whether it’s a new skill, a book you’ve read, or a conversation that opened your mind, what’s something new you’ve gained insight from?

18. What’s a luxury in your life that you’re grateful for?

Luxuries don’t always have to be extravagant. It could be something like having access to high-speed internet, a comfortable bed, or even a reliable car. What’s something you enjoy that makes life a little easier or more enjoyable?

19. What’s your favorite way to relax and unwind?

We all need downtime. Whether you enjoy taking a bath, reading, or going for a walk, what activity helps you recharge and feel at peace?

20. What’s one thing that happened today that you’re grateful for?

Every day offers something to be thankful for. Reflect on a specific moment from today, no matter how small, that brought you joy or peace.

Conclusion

Gratitude journaling doesn’t have to be complicated. With these prompts, you can ease into the habit, taking a few minutes each day to reflect on what’s good in your life. Over time, this simple practice will help shift your mindset, making it easier to notice and appreciate the positives, even amid challenges.

The key takeaway here is that gratitude is a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it becomes. Whether you're writing about small moments of joy or significant life events, gratitude fosters a sense of abundance and fulfillment. So why not give it a try?

Start with one of the above prompts today, and watch how the practice of gratitude begins to shift your perspective and improve your overall well-being.

Additional Resources

If you're ready to dive deeper into your gratitude practice, here are some more resources to help you along the way:

Explore these articles for more prompts and tips to enrich your journaling journey. Happy writing!

Gratitude Prompts for Adults to Inspire Reflection →