March 17, 2025 • 16 mins
https://lestallion.com/collections/journal-notebook-for-gratitude
Gratitude journaling isn't just another wellness trend—it's a scientifically-backed practice that can literally rewire your brain for happiness. We dive deep into why this simple habit packs such a powerful punch, exploring how consistent gratitude practice strengthens neural pathways connected to positive emotions like joy, contentment, and love.
Through personal stories and research insights, we uncover how quality journals become more than mere tools—they transform into companions on our journey toward mindfulness and appreciation. The tactile experience of a well-crafted journal, with features like numbered pages and a table of contents, creates a ritual that signals to our brains it's time to shift perspective. We explore how these physical elements help us build a "gratitude library" we can revisit during challenging times.
What makes gratitude truly transformative is its ability to help us find joy in unexpected places. From turning dreaded commutes into peaceful moments of reflection to reframing obstacles as opportunities for growth, gratitude helps us see our lives through a different lens. We discuss practical strategies for making gratitude a sustainable practice, finding the right balance between structure and spontaneity, and extending our appreciation beyond journaling into meaningful actions. Whether you're a skeptic or already convinced of gratitude's power, you'll discover fresh insights on how choosing thankfulness can lead to a more fulfilled, connected, and purposeful life. Ready to experience the difference gratitude can make? Listen now and take your first step toward a more appreciative mindset.
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LeStallion offers premium PU leather journal notebooks for writing, dedicated to all those who are pursuing their dreams and goals, or nurturing their personal development and mental health.
For More Info on LeStallion, check out:
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Okay, so gratitude journaling, right.
It seems like everyone'stalking about it these days.
What's the big deal?
Well, we're going to find out.
We've got a whole stack ofresearch here, some articles,
even some stuff from Lestallion.
Speaker 2 (00:12):
Ah, lestallion, yeah, their journals are beautiful,
aren't they?
Speaker 1 (00:15):
They really are.
I actually have one right here,you know 211 pages nice thick
paper, a faux leather cover.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
Oh yeah, that 120 GSM paper.
You can really use any pen withit, no bleed through.
Speaker 1 (00:27):
Exactly and it's got all these little details that
just make it feel special, likenumbered pages and a table of
contents.
You don't see that in just anyold notebook.
I even use that little backpocket they have for like little
things that just spark happymemories.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
I can see why people get attached to them.
They're more than just a tool.
They become part of theexperience.
Speaker 1 (00:47):
That's exactly it, and you know it's funny.
My sister was going through areally rough time a while back
Job, stress, family stuff, thewhole works.
So I got her a listallionjournal, thinking, you know,
maybe it would help.
And she told me later that justthe act of holding it, feeling
the letter, the weight of thepaper, it gave her this sense of
calm before she even startedwriting.
Speaker 2 (01:09):
Interesting.
There's something about that.
Tactile experience isn't there.
It's like a ritual, a signal toyour brain that it's time to
shift gears.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
Yeah, like priming yourself for gratitude even
before you start writing.
But I've got to ask why isgratitude so powerful in the
first place?
I mean, we all know the sayingcount your blessings, but how
does that actually work?
What's the science behind it?
Speaker 2 (01:29):
Right?
Well, it's not just somefeel-good saying.
There's actual research showingthat gratitude can rewire our
brains Seriously.
It's about shifting focus,moving away from what we lack
and towards what we have, thepositive stuff.
Speaker 1 (01:42):
So you're saying, just by writing down things I'm
grateful for, I can actuallychange my brain you got it.
Speaker 2 (01:48):
Every time you experience gratitude, you're
strengthening those neuralpathways connected to positive
emotions joy, contentment, love,all that good stuff.
And just like working a musclethe more you use them, the
stronger they get hmm, okay, Ican see that, but part of me is
still a bit skeptical.
Speaker 1 (02:05):
you know, is it really that simple?
Just write it down and bam, I'ma happier person.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
Well, it's not magic, of course.
It takes effort, consistenteffort, like anything worthwhile
, and that's where awell-designed journal can really
help, like those Lestallionones.
They've got features like thetable of contents.
A friend of mine, john, he, wastelling me how he used that to
track his own gratitude journey.
He had this high-stress jobalways left him feeling drained.
He started using the journal atfirst just listing basic things
(02:31):
my health, my family, you know,not really feeling it.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
So it wasn't sparking that deep gratitude at first.
Speaker 2 (02:38):
No, not really, but he kept at it.
And then weeks later he hadthis awful day at work you know
boss yelling project, fallingapart the whole nine yards,
feeling totally defeated.
He just randomly opened hisLestallion journal, flipped to a
past entry.
Using that table of contents helanded on a simple moment with
his son laughing while buildingLegos and reading that it just
(03:01):
shifted his whole perspective,remembered the joy, the love,
put that work stress in adifferent light.
Speaker 1 (03:08):
Wow.
So the journal became like atool to reframe his experience,
to help him access thosepositive emotions even when
things are rough, like agratitude toolkit almost.
Speaker 2 (03:17):
Exactly, and Lestallion seems to get that.
Those numbered pages, the tableof contents, it all helps you
revisit specific entries, likeJohn did, reinforces those
positive patterns, reminds youof your own resilience.
Speaker 1 (03:27):
I could see how that would be powerful, remembering
those moments, especially whenwe're struggling.
I remember when I first gotinto using a listallion journal
myself.
I have to admit I was a bitoverwhelmed at first.
You know all the different waysto journal got it prompts, free
writing, where to even start?
Speaker 2 (03:42):
So many options, right, it's like, oh, where do I
even begin?
Speaker 1 (03:50):
Totally.
But that's one thing I reallyappreciated about Listallion.
They kind of address this intheir guide.
Talk about how differentjournaling styles work for
different people.
You know what I mean.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Yeah, it makes sense.
Not everyone approachesgratitude the same way, right?
Some people need more structure, some need that freedom to just
well free write.
Speaker 1 (04:05):
Exactly, I'm definitely more of a free
flowing type.
So at first I was drawn to theblank pages in the Listallion
Journal, but then I noticedthese faint dotted lines on each
page.
Speaker 2 (04:16):
Oh interesting.
What did you think about those?
Speaker 1 (04:19):
I don't know.
I kind of started using them asa guide, like almost making
little columns for differentcategories of gratitude One for
personal stuff, one for workthings, one for just like random
moments of beauty or you knowlittle things that made me smile
.
Speaker 2 (04:32):
That's creative using those lines to add structure,
but without being too rigidabout it.
Speaker 1 (04:36):
Yeah, and I think that's a big part of the
Lestallian approach.
You know it's flexible, you canadapt it to your own style.
Yeah, and that makes it wellmore enjoyable.
Speaker 2 (04:44):
Enjoyment is key, right?
If it feels like a chore, who'sgoing to stick with it?
It's like exercise, you knowFind something you actually like
doing and you're way morelikely to keep it up.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
Great analogy it's got to be that balance between
structure and freedom,discipline, and well, delight
you know yeah.
And speaking of delight, onething I love about Lestallion is
their focus on storytelling.
They have these prompts thatencourage you to go beyond just
listing things and really getinto the why, like the stories
behind those experiences.
Speaker 2 (05:15):
Oh, I see what you mean, because a story, it just
brings things to life, doesn't?
It Makes it more vivid,memorable, and that's a big part
of gratitude, right?
Not just acknowledging the goodstuff, but really savoring it,
letting those emotions sink in.
Speaker 1 (05:28):
Exactly.
It's like what's the saying,the difference between reading a
list of ingredients andactually tasting the meal.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
Perfect analogy, lestallion gets it.
They've got prompts that haveyou remembering specific
memories, describing all thosesensory details, even imagining
future scenarios that you'regrateful for.
Speaker 1 (05:44):
I can just picture their design team right.
Features tell, but stories sell.
And it's true.
We're wired for stories.
Our brains remember narrativesso much better than just facts.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
Absolutely, and when we weave gratitude into those
stories, it's like creating thistapestry of positivity
something you can come back todraw strength from again and
again.
Speaker 1 (06:09):
Powerful stuff like building a whole library of
gratitude right, all thesestories reminding us of our
strength, our capacity for joy,all the good things that
surround us.
Speaker 2 (06:16):
Beautifully put.
Speaking of good things, I'mcurious about those hidden joys
you mentioned earlier.
How does Lestallion guidepeople to discover those?
Speaker 1 (06:25):
Oh, this is one of my favorite things about their
approach They've got promptsthat really get you looking for
the good in well unexpectedplaces, those little sparks of
joy we might otherwise miss.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
Right, because so often it's those small everyday
moments that add up to bighappiness, isn't it?
But we're so busy, so focusedon the big goals.
We miss those little gems alongthe way.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
Exactly Like my friend Sarah, she was telling me
how she used one of theLestallion prompts to find a
hidden joy in her daily commute.
Speaker 2 (06:56):
Her commute.
Speaker 1 (06:56):
Now that's intriguing .
Not usually a place weassociate with joy, I know right
, she dreaded it Packed, traindelays, the whole works.
But the prompt it asked her tofind something positive about a
routine activity.
So she started paying attentionand you know what?
She realized that while thetrain ride itself was a drag,
she loved the walk to thestation.
It was her time to decompress,listen to music, notice the
(07:17):
trees changing colors, all that.
Speaker 2 (07:19):
It's amazing what a little shift in focus can do,
isn't it Reframing that wholeexperience?
Speaker 1 (07:24):
Totally.
She told me discovering thatlittle pocket of joy made a huge
difference to her whole day.
Like gave her something to lookforward to, even on the most,
well you know, mundane days.
Speaker 2 (07:34):
It's a perfect example of how Lestallion's
approach encourages mindfulness,appreciation for everyday
experiences.
Speaker 1 (07:41):
And that mindfulness can be so powerful.
Right, Slowing down, payingattention, savoring those little
things we often take forgranted.
Speaker 2 (07:48):
Exactly Joy and gratitude.
They can be found anywherereally, even in a crazy commute
or a stressful workday.
Speaker 1 (07:54):
It's all about choosing to see the good, even
when it's hidden in plain sight.
You know, I remember a time Iwas feeling super overwhelmed
Work deadlines, family stuffeverything felt like one giant
to-do list.
I was losing sight of whatreally mattered.
Speaker 2 (08:09):
That feeling of overwhelm.
It's so common these days.
Easy to get caught up in thebusyness and loser way.
Speaker 1 (08:15):
Totally, but I had just started using a listallion
journal and I thought I'd tryone of their prompts.
It was about finding gratitudein well unexpected challenges.
Speaker 2 (08:25):
Oh, that's an interesting one.
Challenges and gratitude, theydon't usually go hand in hand.
Speaker 1 (08:29):
I know right, it felt a bit strange at first, but I
sat down with my journal andreally thought about the
challenges I was facing and, youknow, as I was writing, it hit
me.
Even though these things werestressful, they were also
pushing me to grow, to learn newskills, to be more creative,
more resourceful.
Speaker 2 (08:47):
That's a powerful way to look at it reframing those
challenges as opportunities.
Speaker 1 (08:51):
Exactly, and that shift, it made such a difference
.
It didn't make the challengesdisappear, of course, but it
gave me a sense of I don't knowcontrol empowerment Like I could
handle it.
Speaker 2 (09:02):
Like gratitude was giving you strength, helping you
face those challenges with moreconfidence.
Speaker 1 (09:07):
Yeah, I think that's one of the most important things
about gratitude.
It helps us build resilience,gives us a more resourceful
mindset, helps us navigate theups and downs of life.
Speaker 2 (09:16):
Beautifully put.
And speaking of resilience, I'mcurious to hear how Lestallion
incorporates that long-termgratitude practice into their
journals.
It's one thing to feel gratefulfor a few minutes, but how do
we make it last?
Speaker 1 (09:30):
That's a great question and honestly, I think
Listallion has thought aboutthis a lot.
I mean, for one thing, theybuild their journals to last the
paper, the binding, thatleather cover.
It's all meant to withstandwell, life, you know, and 211
pages, that's a lot of space todocument your gratitude journey.
My current list, allie Ann, hasbeen with me through a lot
(09:50):
Moves, career changes,everything.
Speaker 2 (09:52):
It's almost like a physical reminder of your
commitment.
Isn't it A testament to thejourney you've been on?
Speaker 1 (09:57):
It really is.
And beyond that, the wholedesign encourages you to keep
going.
The numbered pages, the tableof contents.
It makes it so easy to lookback, see how your perspective
has changed over time look back,see how your perspective has
changed over time.
Speaker 2 (10:09):
I see what you mean incorporating time into the
whole experience, Becausegratitude isn't just about the
present moment, is it?
It's about appreciating how farwe've come, the challenges
we've overcome.
Speaker 1 (10:19):
Exactly Like looking at a photo album of your
gratitude journey, you know.
Speaker 2 (10:23):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (10:23):
All those snapshots of joy, resilience, growth,
reminding us that even whenthings are tough, we've always
got those positive memories todraw on.
Speaker 2 (10:32):
Like building a reserve of gratitude, something
you can tap into when you needit.
Speaker 1 (10:36):
Exactly.
Oh, and speaking of reserves,you know that little back pocket
in the Lestallion journals.
Speaker 2 (10:41):
Yeah, what about?
It Seems like a small detail,but I bet it means a lot to
people.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
It does.
I use mine to keep littlethings that bring back good
memories A postcard from afriend, a concert ticket stub, a
pressed flower from a specialevent.
It's like a tiny treasure chestof gratitude.
Speaker 2 (10:56):
I love that.
It's like making those positiveexperiences tangible, bringing
them to life.
Speaker 1 (11:01):
Right.
It's another way to make thejournaling experience your own.
Each Lestallion journal, itbecomes this unique reflection
of the owner's journey.
Speaker 2 (11:10):
A beautiful way to think about it.
Each one a work of art filledwith gratitude, memories,
personal meaning.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
I love that analogy.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
That's what makes Listallion so special.
It's more than just a journal.
It's a space for self-discovery, a tool for transformation, a
companion on that well, lifelongjourney of cultivating
gratitude.
Speaker 2 (11:31):
And that journey, as we've been discussing, it's
incredibly rewarding, openingourselves up to the good around
us, those moments of joybuilding a mindset of
appreciation even when life getstough.
Speaker 1 (11:45):
So well said.
Speaker 2 (11:45):
And it all starts with paying attention right,
noticing the good things, bothbig and small, absolutely
Choosing to see the worldthrough that lens of gratitude.
And you know what it cantransform not just our own lives
but the lives of those aroundus too.
Speaker 1 (11:55):
So true you know.
Speaking of transforming lives,I'd love to hear about your own
experience with gratitude.
What's been the biggesttakeaway for you?
Speaker 2 (12:02):
Hmm, that's a good question.
You know, it's made me realizehow far I've come.
For a long time I was alwaysstriving for more, never quite
feeling content, and it wasn'tuntil I discovered gratitude
that I really startedexperiencing a sense of peace,
fulfillment, joy, all thosethings.
Speaker 1 (12:18):
That's a beautiful story.
It reminds us that we don'tneed to achieve something big to
be happy.
Joy and contentment.
It's all right here, right now.
We just have to appreciate thegood we already have.
Speaker 2 (12:28):
I agree, and it's not about settling for less.
It's about recognizing thatabundance comes from
appreciating, not accumulating.
Speaker 1 (12:35):
Shifting from a mindset of scarcity to one of
abundance.
Speaker 2 (12:38):
Exactly, and that shift can be so liberating.
We can finally relax, enjoy thejourney instead of constantly
chasing after the next thing.
Speaker 1 (12:46):
It's like taking a deep breath and saying it's
enough.
Speaker 2 (12:48):
Yes, and you know, one of the most unexpected
things I've learned aboutgratitude is that it's not just
about feeling good, it's aboutdoing good too.
Speaker 1 (12:56):
Oh, that's interesting.
Tell me more.
Speaker 2 (12:57):
Well, I've noticed, the more I practice gratitude,
the more I want to give back toexpress my appreciation.
Gratitude inspires generosityand kindness, I think.
Speaker 1 (13:07):
It makes sense, when we feel thankful for what we
have, we want to share thatabundance right.
Speaker 2 (13:12):
Exactly, and it doesn't have to be anything big.
It could be volunteering yourtime, donating to a cause, just
offering a helping hand tosomeone who needs it.
Speaker 1 (13:22):
It's about understanding that we're all
connected.
Our actions, big or small, theyall make a difference.
Speaker 2 (13:28):
It really is and it makes me think how can we
actually make that happen?
It's easy to talk aboutgratitude, but how do we make it
, I don't know a real part ofour lives, in our communities,
even.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
Right, it's got to be more than just an idea, right.
Speaker 2 (13:41):
Exactly, and I think the first step is realizing that
gratitude it's not just afeeling, it's a practice,
something you have to, you know,work at, a habit you build.
Speaker 1 (13:49):
Like building a muscle the more you use it, the
stronger it gets.
Speaker 2 (13:52):
That's a great way to put it, and there are so many
ways to exercise that gratitudemuscle.
Keeping a journal is one likewe've been talking about, but it
doesn't have to be that formal,even just writing down a few
things you're grateful for eachmorning, or texting a friend to
tell them you appreciate themLittle things like that.
Speaker 1 (14:11):
Finding those little moments in your day to stop and
appreciate the good.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Yes, and another thing that's really powerful is
expressing your gratitudedirectly to people.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
Oh, yeah, telling people how much they need you
yeah.
I love that it makes such adifference.
Speaker 2 (14:25):
It does, and it could be as simple as saying thank
you to the person who makes yourcoffee, or writing a nice note
to a co-worker who helped youout, or calling your mom just to
say hi and let her know you'rethinking of her Putting
gratitude into action.
Exactly.
And you know what else?
Is great for cultivatinggratitude, acts of service.
Speaker 1 (14:42):
Oh, helping others, I hadn't thought about that, but
it makes sense.
Speaker 2 (14:45):
Right.
When you do something forsomeone else, it just makes you
feel good and it doesn't have tobe some big, huge thing.
It could be helping a neighborcarry groceries or volunteering
at a food bank.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
Anything like that.
It's a reminder that we're allconnected and that we can all
make a difference.
Speaker 2 (15:01):
And speaking of making a difference, have you
ever thought about beinggrateful for challenges?
Speaker 1 (15:06):
Grateful for challenges.
That's a tough one.
Speaker 2 (15:08):
I know it seems kind of strange.
When something tough happens,it's easy to focus on the
negative.
But if you can find a way to begrateful for those challenges,
well, it can change your wholeperspective, even if you're just
grateful for the lessons youlearn or for how they make you
stronger.
Speaker 1 (15:23):
Seeing those obstacles as opportunities.
Speaker 2 (15:25):
Yes, and that can be really powerful.
You face those challenges withmore courage, you know, with a
sense of purpose.
Speaker 1 (15:33):
It's all about how you look at it, isn't it?
Speaker 2 (15:35):
It really is.
And, of course, don't forget tobe grateful for the simple
things too, the little everydaythings.
Speaker 1 (15:41):
Like what.
Give me some examples.
Speaker 2 (15:42):
Oh, I don't know the sunshine, a good meal, hearing
people laugh, the beauty ofnature, your comfy bed at night,
things like that.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
Those little moments of peace and happiness.
Speaker 2 (15:53):
Exactly, those are the things that make life so
rich.
Speaker 1 (15:56):
And when you appreciate those things, it
makes you feel so grateful,doesn't it?
Even when life gets crazy.
Speaker 2 (16:01):
It really does.
Well, I think we've covered alot of ground today.
Gratitude is such a fascinatingtopic.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
It is.
We've talked about the sciencebehind it, how to make it a part
of our lives and what the worldcould look like if everyone
embraced gratitude.
It's been great.
Speaker 2 (16:15):
I agree.
It's been a pleasure talkingabout this with you.
Speaker 1 (16:17):
Same here.
And before we go, I want toleave our listeners with one
last thought.
Remember gratitude is a choice.
We can choose to focus on thegood, to appreciate what we have
and to be thankful for all theblessings in our lives every
single day.
Speaker 2 (16:32):
And may that choice lead us all to happier, more
meaningful lives full of goodthings.
Speaker 1 (16:37):
Thanks for listening to the Deep Dive everyone, we'll
see you next time and untilthen, keep exploring, keep
learning and keep those heartsfull of gratitude.
Okay, so gratitude journaling, right.
It seems like everyone'stalking about it these days.
What's the big deal?
Well, we're going to find out.
We've got a whole stack ofresearch here, some articles,
even some stuff from Lestallion.
Speaker 2 (00:12):
Ah, lestallion, yeah, their journals are beautiful,
aren't they?
Speaker 1 (00:15):
They really are.
I actually have one right here,you know 211 pages nice thick
paper, a faux leather cover.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
Oh yeah, that 120 GSM paper.
You can really use any pen withit, no bleed through.
Speaker 1 (00:27):
Exactly and it's got all these little details that
just make it feel special, likenumbered pages and a table of
contents.
You don't see that in just anyold notebook.
I even use that little backpocket they have for like little
things that just spark happymemories.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
I can see why people get attached to them.
They're more than just a tool.
They become part of theexperience.
Speaker 1 (00:47):
That's exactly it, and you know it's funny.
My sister was going through areally rough time a while back
Job, stress, family stuff, thewhole works.
So I got her a listallionjournal, thinking, you know,
maybe it would help.
And she told me later that justthe act of holding it, feeling
the letter, the weight of thepaper, it gave her this sense of
calm before she even startedwriting.
Speaker 2 (01:09):
Interesting.
There's something about that.
Tactile experience isn't there.
It's like a ritual, a signal toyour brain that it's time to
shift gears.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
Yeah, like priming yourself for gratitude even
before you start writing.
But I've got to ask why isgratitude so powerful in the
first place?
I mean, we all know the sayingcount your blessings, but how
does that actually work?
What's the science behind it?
Speaker 2 (01:29):
Right?
Well, it's not just somefeel-good saying.
There's actual research showingthat gratitude can rewire our
brains Seriously.
It's about shifting focus,moving away from what we lack
and towards what we have, thepositive stuff.
Speaker 1 (01:42):
So you're saying, just by writing down things I'm
grateful for, I can actuallychange my brain you got it.
Speaker 2 (01:48):
Every time you experience gratitude, you're
strengthening those neuralpathways connected to positive
emotions joy, contentment, love,all that good stuff.
And just like working a musclethe more you use them, the
stronger they get hmm, okay, Ican see that, but part of me is
still a bit skeptical.
Speaker 1 (02:05):
you know, is it really that simple?
Just write it down and bam, I'ma happier person.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
Well, it's not magic, of course.
It takes effort, consistenteffort, like anything worthwhile
, and that's where awell-designed journal can really
help, like those Lestallionones.
They've got features like thetable of contents.
A friend of mine, john, he, wastelling me how he used that to
track his own gratitude journey.
He had this high-stress jobalways left him feeling drained.
He started using the journal atfirst just listing basic things
(02:31):
my health, my family, you know,not really feeling it.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
So it wasn't sparking that deep gratitude at first.
Speaker 2 (02:38):
No, not really, but he kept at it.
And then weeks later he hadthis awful day at work you know
boss yelling project, fallingapart the whole nine yards,
feeling totally defeated.
He just randomly opened hisLestallion journal, flipped to a
past entry.
Using that table of contents helanded on a simple moment with
his son laughing while buildingLegos and reading that it just
(03:01):
shifted his whole perspective,remembered the joy, the love,
put that work stress in adifferent light.
Speaker 1 (03:08):
Wow.
So the journal became like atool to reframe his experience,
to help him access thosepositive emotions even when
things are rough, like agratitude toolkit almost.
Speaker 2 (03:17):
Exactly, and Lestallion seems to get that.
Those numbered pages, the tableof contents, it all helps you
revisit specific entries, likeJohn did, reinforces those
positive patterns, reminds youof your own resilience.
Speaker 1 (03:27):
I could see how that would be powerful, remembering
those moments, especially whenwe're struggling.
I remember when I first gotinto using a listallion journal
myself.
I have to admit I was a bitoverwhelmed at first.
You know all the different waysto journal got it prompts, free
writing, where to even start?
Speaker 2 (03:42):
So many options, right, it's like, oh, where do I
even begin?
Speaker 1 (03:50):
Totally.
But that's one thing I reallyappreciated about Listallion.
They kind of address this intheir guide.
Talk about how differentjournaling styles work for
different people.
You know what I mean.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Yeah, it makes sense.
Not everyone approachesgratitude the same way, right?
Some people need more structure, some need that freedom to just
well free write.
Speaker 1 (04:05):
Exactly, I'm definitely more of a free
flowing type.
So at first I was drawn to theblank pages in the Listallion
Journal, but then I noticedthese faint dotted lines on each
page.
Speaker 2 (04:16):
Oh interesting.
What did you think about those?
Speaker 1 (04:19):
I don't know.
I kind of started using them asa guide, like almost making
little columns for differentcategories of gratitude One for
personal stuff, one for workthings, one for just like random
moments of beauty or you knowlittle things that made me smile
.
Speaker 2 (04:32):
That's creative using those lines to add structure,
but without being too rigidabout it.
Speaker 1 (04:36):
Yeah, and I think that's a big part of the
Lestallian approach.
You know it's flexible, you canadapt it to your own style.
Yeah, and that makes it wellmore enjoyable.
Speaker 2 (04:44):
Enjoyment is key, right?
If it feels like a chore, who'sgoing to stick with it?
It's like exercise, you knowFind something you actually like
doing and you're way morelikely to keep it up.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
Great analogy it's got to be that balance between
structure and freedom,discipline, and well, delight
you know yeah.
And speaking of delight, onething I love about Lestallion is
their focus on storytelling.
They have these prompts thatencourage you to go beyond just
listing things and really getinto the why, like the stories
behind those experiences.
Speaker 2 (05:15):
Oh, I see what you mean, because a story, it just
brings things to life, doesn't?
It Makes it more vivid,memorable, and that's a big part
of gratitude, right?
Not just acknowledging the goodstuff, but really savoring it,
letting those emotions sink in.
Speaker 1 (05:28):
Exactly.
It's like what's the saying,the difference between reading a
list of ingredients andactually tasting the meal.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
Perfect analogy, lestallion gets it.
They've got prompts that haveyou remembering specific
memories, describing all thosesensory details, even imagining
future scenarios that you'regrateful for.
Speaker 1 (05:44):
I can just picture their design team right.
Features tell, but stories sell.
And it's true.
We're wired for stories.
Our brains remember narrativesso much better than just facts.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
Absolutely, and when we weave gratitude into those
stories, it's like creating thistapestry of positivity
something you can come back todraw strength from again and
again.
Speaker 1 (06:09):
Powerful stuff like building a whole library of
gratitude right, all thesestories reminding us of our
strength, our capacity for joy,all the good things that
surround us.
Speaker 2 (06:16):
Beautifully put.
Speaking of good things, I'mcurious about those hidden joys
you mentioned earlier.
How does Lestallion guidepeople to discover those?
Speaker 1 (06:25):
Oh, this is one of my favorite things about their
approach They've got promptsthat really get you looking for
the good in well unexpectedplaces, those little sparks of
joy we might otherwise miss.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
Right, because so often it's those small everyday
moments that add up to bighappiness, isn't it?
But we're so busy, so focusedon the big goals.
We miss those little gems alongthe way.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
Exactly Like my friend Sarah, she was telling me
how she used one of theLestallion prompts to find a
hidden joy in her daily commute.
Speaker 2 (06:56):
Her commute.
Speaker 1 (06:56):
Now that's intriguing .
Not usually a place weassociate with joy, I know right
, she dreaded it Packed, traindelays, the whole works.
But the prompt it asked her tofind something positive about a
routine activity.
So she started paying attentionand you know what?
She realized that while thetrain ride itself was a drag,
she loved the walk to thestation.
It was her time to decompress,listen to music, notice the
(07:17):
trees changing colors, all that.
Speaker 2 (07:19):
It's amazing what a little shift in focus can do,
isn't it Reframing that wholeexperience?
Speaker 1 (07:24):
Totally.
She told me discovering thatlittle pocket of joy made a huge
difference to her whole day.
Like gave her something to lookforward to, even on the most,
well you know, mundane days.
Speaker 2 (07:34):
It's a perfect example of how Lestallion's
approach encourages mindfulness,appreciation for everyday
experiences.
Speaker 1 (07:41):
And that mindfulness can be so powerful.
Right, Slowing down, payingattention, savoring those little
things we often take forgranted.
Speaker 2 (07:48):
Exactly Joy and gratitude.
They can be found anywherereally, even in a crazy commute
or a stressful workday.
Speaker 1 (07:54):
It's all about choosing to see the good, even
when it's hidden in plain sight.
You know, I remember a time Iwas feeling super overwhelmed
Work deadlines, family stuffeverything felt like one giant
to-do list.
I was losing sight of whatreally mattered.
Speaker 2 (08:09):
That feeling of overwhelm.
It's so common these days.
Easy to get caught up in thebusyness and loser way.
Speaker 1 (08:15):
Totally, but I had just started using a listallion
journal and I thought I'd tryone of their prompts.
It was about finding gratitudein well unexpected challenges.
Speaker 2 (08:25):
Oh, that's an interesting one.
Challenges and gratitude, theydon't usually go hand in hand.
Speaker 1 (08:29):
I know right, it felt a bit strange at first, but I
sat down with my journal andreally thought about the
challenges I was facing and, youknow, as I was writing, it hit
me.
Even though these things werestressful, they were also
pushing me to grow, to learn newskills, to be more creative,
more resourceful.
Speaker 2 (08:47):
That's a powerful way to look at it reframing those
challenges as opportunities.
Speaker 1 (08:51):
Exactly, and that shift, it made such a difference
.
It didn't make the challengesdisappear, of course, but it
gave me a sense of I don't knowcontrol empowerment Like I could
handle it.
Speaker 2 (09:02):
Like gratitude was giving you strength, helping you
face those challenges with moreconfidence.
Speaker 1 (09:07):
Yeah, I think that's one of the most important things
about gratitude.
It helps us build resilience,gives us a more resourceful
mindset, helps us navigate theups and downs of life.
Speaker 2 (09:16):
Beautifully put.
And speaking of resilience, I'mcurious to hear how Lestallion
incorporates that long-termgratitude practice into their
journals.
It's one thing to feel gratefulfor a few minutes, but how do
we make it last?
Speaker 1 (09:30):
That's a great question and honestly, I think
Listallion has thought aboutthis a lot.
I mean, for one thing, theybuild their journals to last the
paper, the binding, thatleather cover.
It's all meant to withstandwell, life, you know, and 211
pages, that's a lot of space todocument your gratitude journey.
My current list, allie Ann, hasbeen with me through a lot
(09:50):
Moves, career changes,everything.
Speaker 2 (09:52):
It's almost like a physical reminder of your
commitment.
Isn't it A testament to thejourney you've been on?
Speaker 1 (09:57):
It really is.
And beyond that, the wholedesign encourages you to keep
going.
The numbered pages, the tableof contents.
It makes it so easy to lookback, see how your perspective
has changed over time look back,see how your perspective has
changed over time.
Speaker 2 (10:09):
I see what you mean incorporating time into the
whole experience, Becausegratitude isn't just about the
present moment, is it?
It's about appreciating how farwe've come, the challenges
we've overcome.
Speaker 1 (10:19):
Exactly Like looking at a photo album of your
gratitude journey, you know.
Speaker 2 (10:23):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (10:23):
All those snapshots of joy, resilience, growth,
reminding us that even whenthings are tough, we've always
got those positive memories todraw on.
Speaker 2 (10:32):
Like building a reserve of gratitude, something
you can tap into when you needit.
Speaker 1 (10:36):
Exactly.
Oh, and speaking of reserves,you know that little back pocket
in the Lestallion journals.
Speaker 2 (10:41):
Yeah, what about?
It Seems like a small detail,but I bet it means a lot to
people.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
It does.
I use mine to keep littlethings that bring back good
memories A postcard from afriend, a concert ticket stub, a
pressed flower from a specialevent.
It's like a tiny treasure chestof gratitude.
Speaker 2 (10:56):
I love that.
It's like making those positiveexperiences tangible, bringing
them to life.
Speaker 1 (11:01):
Right.
It's another way to make thejournaling experience your own.
Each Lestallion journal, itbecomes this unique reflection
of the owner's journey.
Speaker 2 (11:10):
A beautiful way to think about it.
Each one a work of art filledwith gratitude, memories,
personal meaning.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
I love that analogy.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
That's what makes Listallion so special.
It's more than just a journal.
It's a space for self-discovery, a tool for transformation, a
companion on that well, lifelongjourney of cultivating
gratitude.
Speaker 2 (11:31):
And that journey, as we've been discussing, it's
incredibly rewarding, openingourselves up to the good around
us, those moments of joybuilding a mindset of
appreciation even when life getstough.
Speaker 1 (11:45):
So well said.
Speaker 2 (11:45):
And it all starts with paying attention right,
noticing the good things, bothbig and small, absolutely
Choosing to see the worldthrough that lens of gratitude.
And you know what it cantransform not just our own lives
but the lives of those aroundus too.
Speaker 1 (11:55):
So true you know.
Speaking of transforming lives,I'd love to hear about your own
experience with gratitude.
What's been the biggesttakeaway for you?
Speaker 2 (12:02):
Hmm, that's a good question.
You know, it's made me realizehow far I've come.
For a long time I was alwaysstriving for more, never quite
feeling content, and it wasn'tuntil I discovered gratitude
that I really startedexperiencing a sense of peace,
fulfillment, joy, all thosethings.
Speaker 1 (12:18):
That's a beautiful story.
It reminds us that we don'tneed to achieve something big to
be happy.
Joy and contentment.
It's all right here, right now.
We just have to appreciate thegood we already have.
Speaker 2 (12:28):
I agree, and it's not about settling for less.
It's about recognizing thatabundance comes from
appreciating, not accumulating.
Speaker 1 (12:35):
Shifting from a mindset of scarcity to one of
abundance.
Speaker 2 (12:38):
Exactly, and that shift can be so liberating.
We can finally relax, enjoy thejourney instead of constantly
chasing after the next thing.
Speaker 1 (12:46):
It's like taking a deep breath and saying it's
enough.
Speaker 2 (12:48):
Yes, and you know, one of the most unexpected
things I've learned aboutgratitude is that it's not just
about feeling good, it's aboutdoing good too.
Speaker 1 (12:56):
Oh, that's interesting.
Tell me more.
Speaker 2 (12:57):
Well, I've noticed, the more I practice gratitude,
the more I want to give back toexpress my appreciation.
Gratitude inspires generosityand kindness, I think.
Speaker 1 (13:07):
It makes sense, when we feel thankful for what we
have, we want to share thatabundance right.
Speaker 2 (13:12):
Exactly, and it doesn't have to be anything big.
It could be volunteering yourtime, donating to a cause, just
offering a helping hand tosomeone who needs it.
Speaker 1 (13:22):
It's about understanding that we're all
connected.
Our actions, big or small, theyall make a difference.
Speaker 2 (13:28):
It really is and it makes me think how can we
actually make that happen?
It's easy to talk aboutgratitude, but how do we make it
, I don't know a real part ofour lives, in our communities,
even.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
Right, it's got to be more than just an idea, right.
Speaker 2 (13:41):
Exactly, and I think the first step is realizing that
gratitude it's not just afeeling, it's a practice,
something you have to, you know,work at, a habit you build.
Speaker 1 (13:49):
Like building a muscle the more you use it, the
stronger it gets.
Speaker 2 (13:52):
That's a great way to put it, and there are so many
ways to exercise that gratitudemuscle.
Keeping a journal is one likewe've been talking about, but it
doesn't have to be that formal,even just writing down a few
things you're grateful for eachmorning, or texting a friend to
tell them you appreciate themLittle things like that.
Speaker 1 (14:11):
Finding those little moments in your day to stop and
appreciate the good.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Yes, and another thing that's really powerful is
expressing your gratitudedirectly to people.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
Oh, yeah, telling people how much they need you
yeah.
I love that it makes such adifference.
Speaker 2 (14:25):
It does, and it could be as simple as saying thank
you to the person who makes yourcoffee, or writing a nice note
to a co-worker who helped youout, or calling your mom just to
say hi and let her know you'rethinking of her Putting
gratitude into action.
Exactly.
And you know what else?
Is great for cultivatinggratitude, acts of service.
Speaker 1 (14:42):
Oh, helping others, I hadn't thought about that, but
it makes sense.
Speaker 2 (14:45):
Right.
When you do something forsomeone else, it just makes you
feel good and it doesn't have tobe some big, huge thing.
It could be helping a neighborcarry groceries or volunteering
at a food bank.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
Anything like that.
It's a reminder that we're allconnected and that we can all
make a difference.
Speaker 2 (15:01):
And speaking of making a difference, have you
ever thought about beinggrateful for challenges?
Speaker 1 (15:06):
Grateful for challenges.
That's a tough one.
Speaker 2 (15:08):
I know it seems kind of strange.
When something tough happens,it's easy to focus on the
negative.
But if you can find a way to begrateful for those challenges,
well, it can change your wholeperspective, even if you're just
grateful for the lessons youlearn or for how they make you
stronger.
Speaker 1 (15:23):
Seeing those obstacles as opportunities.
Speaker 2 (15:25):
Yes, and that can be really powerful.
You face those challenges withmore courage, you know, with a
sense of purpose.
Speaker 1 (15:33):
It's all about how you look at it, isn't it?
Speaker 2 (15:35):
It really is.
And, of course, don't forget tobe grateful for the simple
things too, the little everydaythings.
Speaker 1 (15:41):
Like what.
Give me some examples.
Speaker 2 (15:42):
Oh, I don't know the sunshine, a good meal, hearing
people laugh, the beauty ofnature, your comfy bed at night,
things like that.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
Those little moments of peace and happiness.
Speaker 2 (15:53):
Exactly, those are the things that make life so
rich.
Speaker 1 (15:56):
And when you appreciate those things, it
makes you feel so grateful,doesn't it?
Even when life gets crazy.
Speaker 2 (16:01):
It really does.
Well, I think we've covered alot of ground today.
Gratitude is such a fascinatingtopic.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
It is.
We've talked about the sciencebehind it, how to make it a part
of our lives and what the worldcould look like if everyone
embraced gratitude.
It's been great.
Speaker 2 (16:15):
I agree.
It's been a pleasure talkingabout this with you.
Speaker 1 (16:17):
Same here.
And before we go, I want toleave our listeners with one
last thought.
Remember gratitude is a choice.
We can choose to focus on thegood, to appreciate what we have
and to be thankful for all theblessings in our lives every
single day.
Speaker 2 (16:32):
And may that choice lead us all to happier, more
meaningful lives full of goodthings.
Speaker 1 (16:37):
Thanks for listening to the Deep Dive everyone, we'll
see you next time and untilthen, keep exploring, keep
learning and keep those heartsfull of gratitude.
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