Dear MOTIVATION: I struggle to recognize the positive in my life. Daily challenges and struggles weigh me down, and it feels almost impossible to appreciate anything. Friends suggest keeping a gratitude journal, but I fear it won’t help. How can I genuinely develop a gratitude practice that shifts my mindset toward the positive? I want to focus on what I have rather than what I lack. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. — NEEDING A MINDSET SHIFT IN NEW JERSEY

DEAR MINDSET SHIFT: It’s commendable that you want to cultivate gratitude! Begin with small steps: each evening, write down one positive experience, regardless of how minor it may seem—such as enjoying a warm cup of tea or cocoa, receiving a kind word from someone, achieving a personal goal, or being thanked after you’ve helped someone. Gradually increase this to three or five items. Consider practicing mindfulness to help you stay present. Remember, gratitude is a muscle that strengthens with regular exercise. As you shift your focus, you may find that positivity begins to surround you.