Gratitude journaling is the simple act of writing down the things you’re grateful for on a regular basis. As we move into 2025, and awareness of mental health continues to grow, practices like gratitude journaling are becoming increasingly popular.
If you’re looking for a way to boost your well-being, starting a gratitude journal could be a great option. But with so many journals available, how do you choose the right one? That’s where this article comes in.
We’ll explore the benefits of gratitude journaling, offer tips for making the most of your journaling practice, and, most importantly, provide a curated list of what we predict will be the best gratitude journals of 2025 to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Understanding Gratitude Journaling
What is a Gratitude Journal?
At its core, a gratitude journal is a simple way to record the things you’re thankful for. Big things, small things, anything goes.
You can use a physical journal, a simple notebook, or even a digital app on your phone or tablet. Some journals are blank, waiting for you to fill them with whatever comes to mind. Others are more structured, with prompts and questions to guide your reflections.
The Science-Backed Benefits of Gratitude
Gratitude isn’t just a nice idea; it’s something that’s been shown to have real benefits for your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.
Studies have shown that regularly practicing gratitude can improve your mood, increase your overall happiness, and boost your optimism. It helps you focus on the positive aspects of your life, even when things are tough. It may also help improve your sleep and reduce your stress levels.
In fact, a 2017 study by the Greater Good Science Center found that gratitude journaling can have a significant positive impact on mental health.
How to get the most out of your gratitude journal
A gratitude journal can change your life, but only if you use it right. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your journaling practice:
- Be consistent. Regular practice, whether daily or weekly, is key.
- Get specific. Detailed entries are more powerful than vague ones.
- Think about people and experiences. Focus on people and what they do, rather than things you own.
- Savor the unexpected. Write about the little things that make you smile.
- Mix it up. Try to focus on different things each time you write.
- Reflect, don’t just list. Don’t just write what you’re grateful for, but why.
By following these tips, you can transform your gratitude journal into a powerful tool for happiness and well-being in 2025 and beyond.
Choosing the Right Gratitude Journal for You in 2025
With so many options out there, how do you pick the perfect gratitude journal? Here are a few things to think about:
- Physical vs. Digital: Do you prefer pen and paper, or typing on a screen? Each has its advantages. Physical journals are distraction-free, but digital ones are portable and searchable.
- Your Lifestyle: How much time do you have each day? Pick a journal that you can easily fit into your daily routine.
- Prompts that Resonate: Some journals have specific prompts, while others are more free-form. Choose prompts that align with your goals.
- Your Budget: Gratitude journals come at all price points, so decide how much you’re willing to spend.
Top Gratitude Journals of 2025: Physical Journals
While apps and digital tools have their place, sometimes the best way to connect with your thoughts is with pen and paper. Here are some of the top physical gratitude journals we expect to see making waves in 2025:
Little Daily Thanks by Papier
Papier is known for its beautiful, high-quality stationery, and the “Little Daily Thanks” journal is no exception. This journal offers a simple, guided format with prompts to encourage daily reflection. Its focus on small joys and thoughtful design makes it unique. If you appreciate aesthetics and want a gentle nudge towards gratitude, this is a great choice.
Gratitude: A Journal by Catherine Price
Catherine Price, the author of “How to Break Up with Your Phone,” brings her insightful approach to this gratitude journal. It’s not just about listing things you’re grateful for; it’s about understanding the science behind gratitude and how to cultivate it effectively. This journal is perfect for those who want a more in-depth, research-backed approach to gratitude practice.
Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration by Meera Lee Patel
More than just a gratitude journal, “Start Where You Are” is a visual feast filled with inspiring quotes, prompts, and artwork by Meera Lee Patel. Its open-ended format encourages creativity and self-expression alongside gratitude. This journal is ideal for artistic individuals who want to combine mindfulness with their creative pursuits.
52 Lists for Happiness: Weekly Journaling Inspiration for Positivity, Balance, and Joy by Moorea Seal
This journal provides a structured approach to gratitude with weekly lists focused on different aspects of happiness. Moorea Seal’s journal combines beautiful design with thought-provoking prompts. It’s a great choice if you like having a clear structure and want to explore various facets of gratitude and well-being.
Gratitude Journals by Promptly
Promptly offers a unique take on gratitude journaling. Their journals are designed to be shared with loved ones, creating a lasting keepsake of shared memories and appreciation. They offer prompts to record memories, hopes, and gratitude for specific people in your life. Ideal for those who value connection and want to create a meaningful family heirloom.
Clear Habit Journal by James Clear
Okay, this isn’t strictly a gratitude journal, but from the author of “Atomic Habits” comes a journal centered on creating and tracking habits. The Clear Habit Journal is about building systems and making the most of life. Jotting down what you are grateful for is one way to do this. This journal is great for people who want to take a detailed approach to their day.
A plain notebook
Sometimes, the best gratitude journal is simply a plain notebook. This offers complete freedom to express gratitude in whatever way feels most natural. You can write lists, draw pictures, or simply jot down thoughts as they come. This is the ideal choice for those who prefer a completely unstructured and personalized approach.
Top Gratitude Journals of 2025: Digital Journals
If you’re looking to take your gratitude practice digital in 2025, you’ve got some great options. Here are a couple of the top-rated apps to consider:
365 Gratitude Journal (app)
The 365 Gratitude Journal app really shines because it gives you a structured approach to daily gratitude. It prompts you with specific questions each day, helping you dig a little deeper than just a simple “I’m thankful for my coffee.” It also lets you add photos and customize the look and feel. If you’re someone who likes a little guidance and enjoys tracking your progress over time, this is a solid choice.
Delightful: Gratitude Journal (app)
Delightful is all about simplicity and visual appeal, helping you create daily affirmations for success. Its clean interface and gentle reminders make it super easy to jot down a few things you’re grateful for each day. What sets it apart is its focus on positive affirmations and mood tracking. If you want a quick and easy way to boost your mood and reflect on the good things in your life, Delightful is worth checking out.
Digital vs. Paper: What to consider
When choosing a digital gratitude journal, think about how well it integrates with other apps you use (like your calendar or to-do list), how easy it is to navigate, and what kind of privacy features it offers. Digital journaling can be great for its portability and searchability, but some people still prefer the tactile experience and mindfulness that comes with writing in a physical journal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to write in a gratitude journal?
The best time to write in a gratitude journal is whenever it feels right for you! Many people find that journaling first thing in the morning sets a positive tone for the day. Others prefer reflecting on their day’s blessings before bed, promoting relaxation and peaceful sleep. Experiment to see what works best with your schedule and personal preferences.
Is a gratitude journal worth it?
For many, yes! Regularly practicing gratitude through journaling has been linked to numerous benefits, including increased happiness, improved mood, reduced stress, and enhanced resilience. It can help shift your focus from what’s lacking to what you already have, fostering a more positive outlook on life. However, the effectiveness of gratitude journaling varies from person to person, so it’s worth trying to see if it resonates with you.
Which is the best gratitude journal?
The “best” gratitude journal is subjective and depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some popular options include structured journals like “The Five-Minute Journal,” which provides prompts for daily reflection and growth, and more open-ended notebooks that allow for free-form writing. Consider factors like the journal’s layout, prompts (if any), paper quality, and overall design when making your choice. Check out our top picks for 2025 in the article above!
What is similar to The Five-Minute Journal?
If you enjoy the structured format of “The Five-Minute Journal,” several similar options offer daily prompts and a focus on gratitude and mindfulness. These include “The 6-Minute Diary,” “Present, Not Perfect,” and various apps like “Gratitude” or “Reflectly.” Look for journals or apps that provide a balance of structure and flexibility to suit your journaling style.
Closing Thoughts
Gratitude journaling is more than just writing down things you’re thankful for; it’s a powerful tool for boosting your overall well-being. Consistently focusing on the good things in your life can shift your perspective and make you feel happier.
The “best” gratitude journal for 2025 is the one you’ll actually use. Take a look at the options and pick the one that fits your style and needs.
Start small, be consistent, and watch how gratitude transforms your life. You might be surprised at the positive impact it can have!