I'd be happy to help you with that. Here are three things you can reflect on and be grateful for:
1. **A warm home**: Think about the roof over your head, the bed you sleep in, or the cozy spot where you're sitting right now. Be thankful for a safe and comfortable place to rest, relax, and recharge.
2. **Good health**: Take a moment to appreciate your physical well-being. Your body is capable of amazing things, and it's easy to overlook its daily functions until something goes wrong. Express gratitude for the ability to move, eat, sleep, and enjoy life without significant pain or impairment.
3. **A supportive network**: Reflect on the people in your life who care about you, listen to you, and offer help when needed. Be grateful for friends, family members, colleagues, or mentors who enrich your existence and provide emotional support.
Remember, gratitude is a muscle that can be strengthened with practice. By focusing on the good things in your life, you'll cultivate a more positive outlook and build resilience for the challenges ahead.
A wonderful topic!
Keeping a "Today I Am Grateful For" journal can be a powerful tool for cultivating gratitude, positivity, and self-awareness. Here are some benefits:
1. **Redefines your focus**: By actively looking for things to be grateful for, you start to shift your attention away from negative thoughts and towards the good stuff.
2. **Improves mental health**: Gratitude has been linked to lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Focusing on what you're thankful for can help calm your mind and improve your overall well-being.
3. **Helps develop a growth mindset**: When you focus on what's going right, you're more likely to see opportunities for growth and learning.
4. **Increases positivity**: Gratitude can lead to a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment by emphasizing the good things in life.
5. **Fosters mindfulness**: Writing down your gratitude helps you stay present and appreciate the small joys in everyday moments.
6. **Creates a positive habit**: Consistently writing in your journal helps develop a daily habit that can bring long-term benefits.
To get started, try these tips:
1. **Choose a format**: Decide whether you prefer a physical notebook or a digital app (like Gratitude365 or Happify) to record your gratitude.
2. **Set a schedule**: Commit to writing in your journal at the same time each day, such as first thing in the morning or before bed.
3. **Start small**: Begin with three things you're grateful for each day and gradually increase the number as you get into the habit.
4. **Be specific**: Instead of just listing general things like "family" or "friends," try to be more specific, such as "my partner's thoughtful gesture today" or "the beautiful sunset I witnessed."
5. **Reflect on your entries**: Take time to reflect on your gratitude journal and identify patterns, themes, or insights that emerge.
Remember, the key is consistency and honesty. By regularly recording what you're grateful for, you can cultivate a more positive and optimistic mindset, which can have far-reaching benefits in many areas of your life.
Here are some inspiring "Today I am grateful for..." quotes to help you focus on the positive:
1. "Today I am grateful for another day to live, love, and learn." - Unknown
2. "Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. Today I am grateful for every blessing." - Melody Beattie
3. "Today I am grateful for my health, my family, and my friends. And for you, dear reader." - Unknown
4. "The best way to get started on the path to gratitude is to take small steps today. What are you grateful for?" - Unknown
5. "Today I am grateful for the beauty of nature, the kindness of strangers, and the love of family." - Unknown
6. "Gratitude is a powerful catalyst that awakens the soul to its highest potential. Today I am grateful for..." - Danielle LaPorte
7. "I'm grateful today for the little things in life: coffee, laughter, and good books." - Unknown
8. "Today I am grateful for my past experiences, because they have led me to where I am today. And I am grateful for where I am today, because it's a stepping stone to where I'll be tomorrow." - Unknown
9. "I'm grateful today for the people who make my life richer: friends, family, and mentors." - Unknown
10. "Today I am grateful for the opportunity to grow, learn, and evolve as a person. And for you, dear reader, may you find joy in your own journey of self-discovery." - Unknown
Remember to take a moment each day to reflect on what you're grateful for. It can be as simple as a good cup of coffee or a beautiful sunrise. Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can have a profound impact on your well-being and happiness.
Teaching children to practice gratitude can have a profound impact on their well-being and outlook on life. Here are some "Today I'm Grateful For" examples that kids might find relatable:
**Everyday things:**
1. A yummy breakfast or lunch
2. A good night's sleep
3. A favorite book or toy
4. A fun conversation with a friend or family member
5. A cozy blanket or stuffed animal
**Nature and the outdoors:**
1. A beautiful sunset or sunrise
2. A fun day at the park or beach
3. A visit to a petting zoo or animal sanctuary
4. Watching birds, butterflies, or squirrels play
5. A special tree or garden that's just for them
**Family and friends:**
1. A parent who helped with homework or made dinner
2. A friend who included them in a game or activity
3. A sibling who shared their toys or candy
4. A grandparent who told them a favorite story
5. A neighbor who waved hello or said hi
**Personal achievements:**
1. Trying something new and feeling proud
2. Completing a puzzle or game without help
3. Making a new friend at school or in class
4. Writing a great story or drawing a cool picture
5. Learning a new skill or trick (e.g., riding a bike)
**Random blessings:**
1. A warm cup of hot chocolate on a cold day
2. A funny joke or meme that made them laugh
3. Finding a $20 bill on the sidewalk
4. Having a favorite song stuck in their head all day
5. Seeing a beautiful rainbow after a storm
Remember to encourage kids to reflect on their gratitude regularly, whether it's at dinner time, before bed, or during morning routines. This can help them develop a positive mindset and appreciate the good things in their lives.
What a wonderful idea! Reflecting on the things you're grateful for can have a profound impact on your well-being and outlook. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
**Family and Relationships**
1. Your loving family members
2. Close friends who support you
3. A partner who loves and cares for you
4. Children who bring joy to your life
5. Grandparents who share their wisdom and love
6. Siblings who are always there for you
7. Neighbors who become like a second family
8. Mentors who guide and inspire you
**Physical Health**
9. A healthy body that allows you to live life to the fullest
10. Access to quality healthcare and medical professionals
11. The ability to exercise and stay physically active
12. Good sleep habits that leave you feeling refreshed
13. A balanced diet that nourishes your body
14. Access to clean drinking water and nutritious food
15. A comfortable home with amenities for self-care
**Personal Growth**
16. Opportunities to learn new skills and pursue hobbies
17. The ability to read and expand your knowledge
18. Personal growth books and resources that inspire you
19. Supportive online communities and forums
20. Encouragement from others to chase your dreams
21. A sense of purpose and direction in life
**Financial Security**
22. A stable income that provides for your needs
23. Savings and investments that secure your future
24. Financial freedom to pursue your passions
25. The ability to afford basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter
26. Access to financial planning resources and experts
27. A budget that allows you to enjoy life's comforts
**Work and Education**
28. A job that aligns with your values and passions
29. Opportunities for professional growth and development
30. Supportive colleagues who become like a second family
31. Mentorship from experienced professionals
32. Access to quality education and training resources
33. A sense of fulfillment and purpose in your work
**Home and Community**
34. A comfortable home that feels like a sanctuary
35. A sense of belonging in your community
36. Neighbors who become like a support system
37. Local businesses that contribute to the local economy
38. Access to parks, green spaces, and outdoor activities
39. A strong sense of community and social connections
**Travel and Exploration**
40. The ability to travel and explore new places
41. Experiences that broaden your perspective and understanding of the world
42. Cultural immersion and learning about different customs
43. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures
44. Discovering new foods, drinks, and culinary traditions
45. Having a sense of adventure and curiosity
**Creativity and Inspiration**
46. Access to art supplies, music instruments, or other creative tools
47. The ability to express yourself creatively
48. Inspiration from artists, musicians, writers, and other creatives
49. Opportunities to collaborate with others on creative projects
50. A sense of fulfillment when creating something meaningful
**Spiritual Growth**
51. A sense of connection to a higher power or universe
52. Spiritual practices that bring you peace and calm
53. Access to spiritual resources and guidance
54. A community of like-minded individuals who support your growth
55. The ability to find meaning and purpose in life's challenges
**Daily Gratitude**
56. Waking up to a new day with opportunities ahead
57. A warm bed to sleep in each night
58. Access to clean air, water, and sunlight
59. The ability to breathe freely and take deep breaths
60. Simple pleasures like a good cup of coffee or tea
**Mental Well-being**
61. A healthy mind that allows you to cope with challenges
62. Access to mental health resources and professionals
63. Self-care practices that nourish your soul
64. A sense of calm and peace in the midst of chaos
65. The ability to reframe negative thoughts and focus on the positive
**Miscellaneous**
66. Access to quality Wi-Fi and internet connectivity
67. Favorite books, movies, TV shows, or podcasts
68. Hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation
69. A sense of humor that helps you laugh at life's absurdities
70. The ability to enjoy quiet moments of solitude
**Everyday Moments**
71. Enjoying a beautiful sunrise or sunset
72. Savoring a delicious meal or snack
73. Having a good conversation with someone
74. Finding beauty in the everyday moments
75. Appreciating the little things that make life special
**Resilience and Strength**
76. The ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges
77. A strong sense of resilience and determination
78. Supportive people who help you through tough times
79. Access to resources that help you grow stronger
80. A growth mindset that allows you to learn from failures
**Personal Freedom**
81. The freedom to make choices about your life
82. Autonomy to pursue your passions and interests
83. Ability to set boundaries and prioritize self-care
84. Financial independence to live life on your own terms
85. A sense of liberation from societal expectations
**Nature and the Environment**
86. Access to parks, forests, or other natural areas
87. The beauty of sunsets, sunrises, and stars
88. The sound of birds singing or ocean waves crashing
89. Opportunities to connect with nature and feel grounded
90. A sense of responsibility to protect the environment
**Self-Care**
91. Access to self-care resources like massages or yoga classes
92. Personal habits that promote relaxation and well-being
93. Supportive friends who remind you to take care of yourself
94. A willingness to prioritize your own needs
95. The ability to practice self-compassion and forgiveness
**Community Service**
96. Opportunities to volunteer and give back to the community
97. Making a positive impact on someone's life
98. Seeing the difference that small acts of kindness can make
99. Feeling connected to something larger than yourself
100. A sense of fulfillment from helping others
Remember, gratitude is a personal experience, and what brings you joy might not be on this list. Reflecting on these things can help you cultivate a more positive mindset and appreciate the good things in your life.
"I am grateful for..." is a powerful phrase that can help cultivate a sense of appreciation, positivity, and mindfulness. Here are some ideas to get you started:
* "I am grateful for my health." (Reflect on your physical and mental well-being.)
* "I am grateful for my loved ones." (Think about the people who support and care for you.)
* "I am grateful for my home." (Consider the roof over your head, the food on your table, and the comforts that make life easier.)
* "I am grateful for my education." (Reflect on the opportunities to learn and grow that you've had.)
* "I am grateful for my career." (Think about the ways in which your work brings you fulfillment and purpose.)
* "I am grateful for my hobbies and interests." (Consider the activities that bring you joy and help you relax.)
* "I am grateful for nature and the outdoors." (Reflect on the beauty of the natural world and its ability to inspire and soothe you.)
* "I am grateful for technology and modern conveniences." (Think about how technology has improved your life, making it easier to communicate, learn, and access resources.)
* "I am grateful for my personal growth and development." (Reflect on the ways in which you've learned and grown as a person.)
* "I am grateful for my spirituality or faith." (Consider how your spiritual beliefs or practices bring you comfort, guidance, and meaning.)
Remember to be specific and sincere when expressing gratitude. For example:
"I am grateful for my family's support during a difficult time in my life."
"I am grateful for the opportunity to travel and experience new cultures."
"I am grateful for the lessons I've learned from my mistakes and failures."
By focusing on what you're grateful for, you can shift your perspective, cultivate a more positive mindset, and appreciate the good things in your life.
What a wonderful idea! Focusing on gratitude can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Here are 500 things to be grateful for:
**Nature**
1. The sun rising each morning
2. Fresh air filling your lungs
3. A beautiful sunset
4. Green spaces to relax in
5. Mountains to hike and explore
6. Oceans to swim and kayak in
7. Rivers to fish and float down
8. Forests to walk and camp in
9. Birds singing their sweet songs
10. The stars twinkling at night
**Family and Friends**
11. A loving partner or spouse
12. Children who bring joy and laughter
13. Close friends who support you
14. Family gatherings and traditions
15. A strong sense of community
16. Neighbors who become like family
17. Coworkers who become like friends
18. Pets who bring comfort and companionship
19. Memories made with loved ones
20. The gift of shared experiences
**Health and Wellness**
21. Access to quality healthcare
22. A healthy body and mind
23. Medications that help manage conditions
24. Medical professionals who care for you
25. Healthy habits like exercise and meditation
26. Good nutrition and a balanced diet
27. Self-care practices like yoga and reading
28. A good night's sleep each evening
29. The ability to recover from illness
30. Natural remedies that work wonders
**Personal Growth**
31. Opportunities for learning and growth
32. New skills and knowledge acquired
33. Challenges that help you grow stronger
34. Supportive mentors and coaches
35. A willingness to take risks and try new things
36. The ability to adapt and evolve
37. Self-awareness and introspection
38. Personal values and principles guiding your way
39. A sense of purpose and direction
40. The freedom to pursue your passions
**Work and Career**
41. A job that brings fulfillment and joy
42. Colleagues who become like family
43. A supportive manager or leader
44. Opportunities for professional growth
45. Recognition and rewards for hard work
46. A sense of accomplishment and pride
47. The ability to make a positive impact
48. Flexible work arrangements and schedules
49. A comfortable workspace and commute
50. A good balance between work and life
**Hobbies and Leisure**
51. Time to pursue your favorite hobbies
52. Access to art, music, and culture
53. Outdoor activities like hiking and biking
54. Sports teams or clubs that bring excitement
55. Book clubs and literary groups
56. Travel opportunities to explore new places
57. Cooking classes and culinary adventures
58. A home filled with laughter and love
59. Game nights and movie nights with friends
60. The freedom to relax and unwind
**Food and Drink**
61. Access to healthy and nutritious food
62. Favorite meals and recipes
63. Coffee or tea that starts your day right
64. A favorite snack or treat
65. Home-cooked meals with loved ones
66. Restaurant meals that bring joy
67. Wine tastings and brewery tours
68. Food festivals and celebrations
69. The simplicity of a home-cooked meal
70. A good bottle of wine to share with friends
**Technology**
71. Access to reliable internet and Wi-Fi
72. Smartphones that keep you connected
73. Computers that make work and life easier
74. Favorite apps and software tools
75. Online courses and educational resources
76. E-books and audiobooks for convenience
77. Virtual events and conferences
78. Social media platforms to stay in touch
79. Online shopping and delivery services
80. A secure and private online presence
**Travel**
81. Passport stamps from exciting destinations
82. Memories of adventures and journeys
83. Road trips and scenic drives
84. Cultural experiences and immersion
85. Trying new foods and drinks on the go
86. Meeting new people and making connections
87. Visiting historical landmarks and monuments
88. Exploring nature reserves and national parks
89. Cruises and sailing trips for relaxation
90. A sense of adventure and curiosity
**Financial Security**
91. A steady income and financial stability
92. Savings and investments for the future
93. Access to credit and loans when needed
94. Financial planning and budgeting tools
95. Credit cards with rewards and benefits
96. Insurance policies that protect you
97. Retirement accounts and nest eggs
98. A sense of security and peace of mind
99. The ability to give back to others
100. A home filled with memories and love
**Community**
101. Neighborhood block parties and gatherings
102. Community events and festivals
103. Volunteer opportunities that make a difference
104. Local businesses and entrepreneurs
105. School and university programs
106. Non-profit organizations making an impact
107. Charities and foundations supporting causes
108. Social clubs and groups for like-minded people
109. Online communities and forums
110. A sense of belonging and connection
**Home**
111. A cozy and comfortable living space
112. Home decor and interior design that reflects your style
113. A backyard or patio for relaxation
114. A well-maintained home with no major issues
115. A safe and secure living environment
116. A place to call your own and make memories
117. Home maintenance and repair services
118. Moving into a new home with excitement
119. Decorating and organizing your space
120. Feeling grounded and at peace
**Creativity**
121. Inspiration from art, music, or nature
122. Writing and storytelling that brings joy
123. Painting, drawing, or other forms of visual art
124. Photography and capturing life's moments
125. Music lessons or jam sessions with friends
126. Dancing and movement as a form of expression
127. Crafting and DIY projects for relaxation
128. Cooking and baking as creative outlets
129. Gardening and cultivating life
130. The ability to express yourself freely
**Mental Well-being**
131. Access to mental health resources and support
132. Self-care practices that bring calm
133. Meditation and mindfulness exercises
134. Journaling and reflecting on your thoughts
135. Healthy coping mechanisms for stress
136. A sense of purpose and direction
137. The ability to reframe negative thoughts
138. Gratitude practices that shift focus
139. A support system of loved ones and friends
140. The freedom to be yourself, flaws and all
**Relationships**
141. A romantic partner who loves and supports you
142. Children who bring joy and laughter
143. Close friends who stand by your side
144. Family members who accept and love you
145. Coworkers who become like family
146. Neighbors who become like extended family
147. Pets that bring comfort and companionship
148. A strong sense of community and belonging
149. The ability to form meaningful connections
150. A support system of people who care
**Education**
151. Access to quality education and resources
152. Lifelong learning opportunities
153. Favorite subjects or areas of study
154. Inspiring teachers and mentors
155. Online courses and educational platforms
156. Book clubs and literary groups
157. Workshops and seminars on topics that interest you
158. Conferences and events for professional growth
159. The ability to learn new skills and adapt
160. A sense of accomplishment and pride
**Personal Growth**
161. Self-awareness and introspection
162. Setting goals and working towards them
163. Developing healthy habits and routines
164. Practicing mindfulness and meditation
165. Cultivating empathy and compassion
166. Building resilience and coping skills
167. Fostering a growth mindset and curiosity
168. Embracing challenges and stepping outside your comfort zone
169. The ability to adapt and evolve
170. A sense of purpose and direction
**Spirituality**
171. Connection to a higher power or universal energy
172. Meditation and prayer practices that bring peace
173. Spiritual leaders and mentors who guide you
174. Favorite scriptures, poems, or quotes that inspire you
175. Church, mosque, synagogue, or other sacred spaces
176. Yoga and other spiritual practices for balance
177. The ability to find meaning and purpose
178. A sense of connection to something greater than yourself
179. The freedom to explore and discover your spirituality
180. A community of like-minded individuals who support you
**Memories**
181. Childhood memories that bring joy
182. Family traditions and celebrations
183. First loves, heartbreaks, and lessons learned
184. Favorite vacations and getaways
185. Memories made with loved ones on special occasions
186. The ability to relive happy moments
187. A photo album or scrapbook filled with memories
188. The gift of storytelling and sharing experiences
189. A sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the past
190. A treasure trove of memories to cherish
**Pets**
191. Furry friends who bring joy and companionship
192. Pets that become like family members
193. The comfort and love they provide
194. Playtime and snuggle sessions with your pets
195. Watching them grow and thrive
196. The sense of responsibility and care for their well-being
197. A home filled with the sounds of happy pets
198. The freedom to spoil and pamper your pets
199. A community of fellow pet lovers who share your passion
200. The unconditional love and acceptance of pets
**Food**
201. Access to healthy and nutritious food
202. Favorite meals and recipes
203. Cooking classes and culinary adventures
204. Restaurant meals that bring joy
205. Food festivals and celebrations
206. A well-stocked pantry with essentials
207. The ability to try new foods and cuisines
208. A sense of community and sharing meals with loved ones
209. A kitchen filled with the smells of fresh cooking
210. The freedom to indulge and treat yourself
**Travel**
211. Access to travel opportunities and experiences
212. Favorite destinations and getaways
213. Cultural immersion and exploration
214. Trying new foods and drinks in different places
215. Meeting new people and making connections
216. A sense of adventure and trying new things
217. The freedom to explore and discover new places
218. A well-planned itinerary or spontaneous travel
219. The joy of returning home after a trip
220. A treasure trove of memories and souvenirs
**Work**
221. Meaningful work that brings purpose and fulfillment
222. A job that aligns with your values and passions
223. A sense of accomplishment and pride in your work
224. Opportunities for growth and development
225. Collaborative and supportive colleagues
226. A flexible schedule or remote work options
227. The freedom to pursue your own projects and interests
228. A positive work-life balance
229. Recognition and rewards for your hard work
230. A sense of belonging and connection to your workplace
**Homelessness**
231. A roof over your head and a place to call home
232. A comfortable living space that meets your needs
233. A sense of security and stability
234. Access to basic necessities like food, water, and shelter
235. Support systems and networks for those in need
236. The freedom to live without fear or uncertainty
237. A safe and welcoming environment for yourself and loved ones
238. The ability to pursue your goals and dreams without hindrance
239. A sense of community and belonging with like-minded individuals
240. A home that is truly yours, where you can be yourself
**Disability**
241. Accessible spaces and accommodations that meet your needs
242. Support systems and networks for people with disabilities
243. The freedom to live independently without barriers
244. Assistive technologies and tools that enhance your daily life
245. A sense of community and connection with others who share your experiences
246. The ability to pursue your goals and dreams without limitations
247. A support system of loved ones and caregivers who understand and advocate for you
248. A place to call home where you feel safe and accepted
249. A sense of identity and self-worth that is not defined by your disability
250. The freedom to be yourself, flaws and all
**Mental Illness**
251. Access to mental health resources and support
252. Self-care practices that bring calm and relaxation
253. Therapy sessions or counseling that help you cope
254. Medications or treatments that manage symptoms
255. A support system of loved ones and friends who understand and care
256. The freedom to seek help and not be ashamed
257. A sense of community and connection with others who share your experiences
258. The ability to pursue your goals and dreams without letting mental health hold you back
259. A place to call home where you feel safe and accepted
260. A sense of identity and self-worth that is not defined by your mental illness
**Physical Health**
261. Access to quality medical care and resources
262. Self-care practices that promote physical well-being
263. Healthy habits and routines that keep you active
264. Medical treatments or therapies that manage chronic conditions
265. A support system of loved ones and healthcare professionals who understand and advocate for you
266. The freedom to pursue your goals and dreams without being held back by physical limitations
267. A place to call home where you feel safe and accepted
268. A sense of identity and self-worth that is not defined by your physical health
**Relationships**
269. A romantic partner who loves and supports you
270. Children who bring joy and laughter
271. Close friends who stand by your side
272. Family members who accept and love you
273. Coworkers who become like family
274. Neighbors who become like extended family
275. Pets that bring comfort and companionship
276. A strong sense of community and belonging
277. The ability to form meaningful connections with others
278. A support system of people who care
279. The freedom to be yourself, flaws and all
280. A place to call home where you feel safe and accepted
**Personal Growth**
281. Self-awareness and introspection
282. Setting goals and working towards them
283. Developing healthy habits and routines
284. Practicing mindfulness and meditation
285. Cultivating empathy and compassion
286. Building resilience and coping skills
287. Fostering a growth mindset and curiosity
288. Embracing challenges and stepping outside your comfort zone
289. The ability to adapt and evolve
290. A sense of identity and self-worth that is not defined by external circumstances
**Spirituality**
291. A connection to something greater than yourself
292. A sense of purpose and meaning in life
293. A feeling of peace and contentment
294. A support system of like-minded individuals
295. The freedom to explore and discover your own spiritual path
296. A place to call home where you feel safe and accepted
297. A sense of community and belonging with others who share your beliefs
298. The ability to find solace and comfort in times of need
299. A sense of identity and self-worth that is not defined by external circumstances
300. The freedom to be yourself, flaws and all
I hope this list helps you cultivate a greater sense of gratitude for the many blessings in your life!
"What am I grateful for today?" is a great prompt to reflect on the positive aspects of your life. Here are some possible answers:
* "I'm grateful for the beautiful sunrise I saw this morning."
* "I'm thankful for my loving family and friends who support me."
* "I appreciate having a warm home and comfortable bed to sleep in tonight."
* "I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn new things and grow as a person."
* "I'm thankful for the simple pleasures in life, like a good cup of coffee or a beautiful walk outside."
* "I appreciate the kindness and generosity of strangers who make my day better."
* "I'm grateful for my health and well-being, and the ability to take care of myself."
* "I'm thankful for the chance to pursue my passions and interests."
Remember, gratitude is a muscle that can be strengthened with practice. Taking time each day to reflect on what you're grateful for can have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being.
Here's an example of how you could incorporate this prompt into your daily routine:
* Start your day by writing down three things you're grateful for in a gratitude journal.
* Take a few minutes each evening to reflect on the good things that happened during the day.
* Share what you're grateful for with a friend or loved one, either in person or over the phone.
Remember, it's the thought and intention behind your gratitude practice that matters most. Find a method that works for you and stick with it!