When we are faced with hardship whether physical, emotional or material, sometimes we feel unappreciative, sad and depressed due to circumstances of our present state. Then there are times when a special reminder comes our way and changes our outlook that life and we feel happy, grateful and appreciative once again. Life is funny that way and so are we.

Journaling could be a good exercise to apply to your daily routine, however, instead of writing down how your day went, this journal will be very specific to recording “only the good” in your life. Some of you reading this probably have questions on how are you supposed to just focus “only on the good” of the day. You’re probably thinking what about the challenges? 

The purpose of this daily writing ritual is to get you to realize there is a higher order in control. Some call it destiny, fate, higher self, God or other spiritual entity of their faith. It all comes back to one common factor that is although we are 99% responsible for what happens to us, there is still that 1% of something that amazes our human intellect.

Like anything, start fresh with a new writing tablet such as a bound journal, diary, composition book or even a pocket notepad is fine for this exercise. The statement you will pose to your thoughts every day will be: 

“One good thing that happened to me today was…” 

The key focus is “happened to me.” 

Keep in mind that this journal is not what you’re grateful about, what you’re appreciative of or what you’re thankful for. The writing is specific to situations and thoughts that have come your way within the course of day and not by what you intentionally created or had control in making something happen. Let me clarify with an example of how a journal entry should look like.

“One good thing that happened to me today was … my childhood best friend contacted me after ten years. Hearing his voice on the phone sure brought back the best memories of my life.” (Write about a memorable shared experience)

“One good thing that happened to me today was … Jimmy proposed to me.” (Elaborate detail, feelings, hopes for your future as a married couple)

Negative to Positive “One good thing that happened to me today was … my stubborn self finally came to realize I made a mistake.” (Explain the positive and what was learned)

The golden rule is that you have to enter a positive affirmation every day. And if it was a really good day, you are encouraged to note each one. Your entry should be at the end of your day, preferably at bedtime. Soon, your mindset change and you’ll be looking forward to what each new day has in store for you. It’s like counting your lucky stars.