Do you ever find yourself struggling to remember what’s important in your life? The things that you value or bring you great happiness? I can definitely say that along the way I can sometimes lose sight of the things that truly make me smile and bring joy to my life. Let’s face it, everyday life is hard! Everyone has so much going on each day, it’s almost impossible to have a minute just to yourself! I mean, think about it, do you ever really have time to sit down peacefully without having a million thoughts running through your head, “What work do I still have to do?” “What’s on my schedule tomorrow?” “What have I forgotten to do?” I definitely could use a break from the tireless thoughts that frequent my mind.

Recently, I have come across an item called a “Five Minute Journal” and I have to say that I love the concept. Basically, the journal takes five minutes out of your day for you to write down a few things and clear your mind. Each day starts with an inspiring quote or a weekly challenge. The challenge might be something like, “When I was 7 years old, my favorite activity was _____.” Then you’re supposed to perform that activity. It sounds a little weird but what makes you happier than your childhood? The carelessness? The effortlessness? I know it would definitely be nice to go back to that for an hour or two.

The key to the journal is this…When you wake up, you are supposed to write down three things that you’re grateful for. These things could range from your family and friends, to a candy bar you ate last night, just things that bring you happiness. Then, you write three things that would make today great. This can literally be anything that would make your day a little more enjoyable. The one thing to keep in mind for this is that these things should be realistic. For example, instead of saying “I want to meet Harry Styles today” you could write “I want to have time to get my favorite lunch from my favorite place.” Lastly, for the morning, you need to write 2 affirmations about yourself. For example, “I am smart and powerful” or “I am kind and generous.” Anything works here and it reminds you of how important and special you truly are. Beginning your morning on a positive note and reminding yourself of your worth is an incredible way to start a day!

Then, before you go to sleep, write three amazing things that happened that day. Again these can be small victories or large ones, everything counts. Lastly, you write down how you could have made the day even better. This one might be tough but it is helpful for personal growth. I never really stop to think about how I could have done better, but when I do, I find that the choices I made the next time around are smarter and maybe more informed. Realizing your mistakes and figuring out how to correct them for the future can fill your days with more success and happiness.

While I’m not saying you need to do each of these things every day, by focusing a little more on yourself, you will find new ideas to advance your life in the most positive of ways. So, take five minutes out of your busy schedule to concentrate on you and only you, I promise, it will be worth it.