I always have the best intentions when it comes to journaling. At some point during each year I begin anew, reading, reflecting and recording. It never seems to stick, yet I know what a benefit this quiet time could be for me. Ever the optimist I decided the start of the new school year would also be the start of a new journal, but this time I would not go it alone.
The cover page of our family journal
Recently I read something about a “Gratitude Journal” and it really struck a chord with me. Eating dinner as a family is a priority for us nightly, so in addition to our shared meal, yesterday we started a new tradition sharing entries in our family journal. This journal too has humble beginnings, hailing from the dollar store, but I hope that its impact on my family is immeasurable. As we try and set boundaries with our children, it is easy for them to dwell on all the ‘no’s’ of the day, but in this moment of reflection they had an opportunity to see the good in the day. When it was my turn to share I took the chance to tell my oldest how thankful I was of some positive behavior she had exhibited. She beamed as I used my turn sharing to focus on her, apparently resonating so much more than praise given throughout the day. It was a simple addition to our family routine, and one that perhaps is right for your family as well!
This is a neat idea. My kids journal, though I haven’t in a while. We make shared meals a priority here too. At least we’re together once a day.