Gratitude Jar

This mindful reflection activity helps participants notice and appreciate their positive experiences. Gratitude Jar offers a simple yet powerful way to end a program on a positive note. Perfect for workshops or classroom settings, this thoughtful debriefing exercise creates a tangible reminder of achievements. The personal nature of the activity allows each person to engage at their own comfort level. Easy to set up with minimal materials, it works well with groups of all sizes and ages.

Gratitude Jar – Mindful Reflection Activity

1. In advance, gather all of the resources you will need for this activity.
2. Distribute one jar and a bunch of short strips of paper to each person.
3. Announce that you will soon lead your group through a fun activity to reflect on their achievements and express gratitude.
4. Instruct each person to write as many things that they have achieved or are grateful for, one per single strip of paper.
5. Frame your group’s reflection as appropriate, eg the most recent group experience.
6. Encourage your group to identify those things that they have control over, eg not the weather.
7. When ready, invite everyone to place these strips of paper into their jar.
8. If desired, invite one or more volunteers to share some of what they contributed to their jar.
9. To conclude, invite your group to reflect on their experience of being grateful.