Gratitude Journal

Abstract

How do I do it? Keep a journal where you write in detail about things you are grateful for in your life. How does it work? By default, our attention is drawn to problems and obstacles in life. This exercise helps you notice, in ways both big and small, what is going well. How do I do it? Expert Practice helps you improve your skills—no matter what it is you're trying to master. There are three steps you follow in order, and then repeat, repeat, repeat: First, identify a specific sub-skill that incrementally challenges you. Second, practice that skill with full effort. Third, seek feedback on what you could do better. How does it work? The opposite of Expert Practice is mindless practice—just going through the motions without a real goal in mind, without concentration, and without meaningful feedback on how you can improve. When you practice like an expert, you make the most of your practice time. The same three-step process applies whether you want to become a better trumpet player, a better writer, or a better student.