Setting a Routine: A New Beginning
Last year, my life took an exciting yet overwhelming turn. I had just started a new job, was about to strengthen my relationship by marrying the man I had been with for two years, and was deep into the planning of a big, beautiful Indian wedding. All of this came with its own set of challenges — managing a demanding full-time job, keeping up with wedding details, and simply trying to maintain balance in my everyday life.
While I was juggling it all, I quickly realized that I was burning out. I felt exhausted, found myself complaining more about work, and was struggling to take care of my health. I wasn’t eating well, and yoga had become more of an afterthought than a consistent practice. Life had become a blur of obligations, and I was beginning to lose sight of myself in the process.
But amidst this chaos, I found a powerful tool that helped me regain my balance — a gratitude journal. I started this practice relatively recently, and little did I know then, this simple habit would revolutionize my mornings and bring back much-needed positivity into my life.
Visualization: Reconnecting with Gratitude
The power of a gratitude journal lies not just in writing down things you’re thankful for but in creating a mental shift. When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to focus on what’s not going right. But in those moments, it’s crucial to remind ourselves of everything we’ve achieved and all the blessings we already have.
I dedicate 5-7 minutes each morning to this practice. Usually, I do it after my yoga session, when my dopamine levels are higher, and I’m more connected to my thoughts. It’s a beautiful moment of stillness before the world starts demanding my attention.
During this time, I visualize the positive moments in my life — the small wins, the love I share with my partner, the new career opportunities, the health improvements I’ve made. It’s incredible how simply reflecting on those moments can set a peaceful tone for the rest of the day.
In those precious minutes, I can feel the weight of stress lift off my shoulders, and I feel grounded, calm, and ready to face whatever comes next. This practice has become a vital part of my morning routine, providing a sense of peace and clarity that I carry throughout the day.
Affirmations: Harnessing the Power of Positive Thought
Starting a new habit can be tricky, and for me, journaling wasn’t something that came naturally. I knew I needed something to guide me in the beginning, and that’s when I found the perfect tool — a simple yet effective gratitude journal from Amazon. It was designed to help me ease into the practice of writing affirmations and reflecting on what I’m grateful for.
This journal includes morning and evening prompts, and I found these prompts to be incredibly helpful in shaping my journaling practice. The questions helped me think more deeply and creatively about my life, and over time, I noticed my journaling method improving.
One of the best features of the journal is the inclusion of Oprah Winfrey’s famous affirmation method. Each day, I write three affirmations for myself — positive statements that I want to remember throughout the day. Whether it’s about my health, my career, or my personal growth, these affirmations have become a powerful tool for boosting my self-confidence and mental clarity.
The journal also asks me to focus on areas like what I’m looking forward to, what I’m grateful for, and what I want to focus on for the day. This helps me start my mornings with purpose and intention, making it easier to move through the day with a positive mindset.
The Results: A New Routine, A New Me
Since incorporating the gratitude journal into my morning routine, I’ve noticed a significant shift in my overall well-being. The constant stress and exhaustion I felt before have lessened, and I’ve learned to embrace the beauty of small moments. Whether it’s my yoga practice, a cup of coffee, or a quiet morning spent reflecting — each part of my routine feels more intentional.
Starting my day with gratitude and affirmations has allowed me to approach challenges with a clearer mind and a more positive attitude. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I now face each day with a sense of balance and calm.
Why You Should Try It
If you’re struggling to find balance or feel overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life, I highly recommend giving gratitude journaling a try. It’s an easy habit to incorporate into your morning routine, and it can have a profound impact on your mental and emotional well-being.
I’ve found that starting my day with intention — through yoga, visualization, and affirmations — has set the tone for a more grounded and positive life. It has made self-care a non-negotiable part of my routine, and I truly believe it’s one of the most effective ways to start your day on the right foot.
Final Thoughts
In a world full of chaos and constant change, taking a few minutes each morning to reconnect with yourself can make all the difference. The act of journaling — whether it’s for gratitude, affirmations, or simply reflecting on your day — can be a powerful tool in your self-care routine. It’s a practice I highly recommend to anyone looking to bring more peace, joy, and intention into their daily life.
