“He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” -Epictetus
Gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving. It’s a lifelong feeling of being appreciative for all you have in your life. Over the years and through various studies, gratitude has been linked to us having more joy, vitality, self-esteem and compassion. It’s like opening a door to let goodness flow into your life. We can’t always get what we want so we must vigorously choose a healthy perspective in the face of life’s many disappointments.
And it starts by saying “thank you.”
Weaving gratitude into your day takes a little practice. It may feel fake and ‘unlike you’ in the beginning, but over time, it will begin to feel good.
Here are some ideas:
- Write it down. Share your thanks with a family member or friend who touched your life.
- See the good. Find the silver lining in your personal struggle.
- Bite your tongue. Make a commitment to not criticize for 10 days and watch your energy bloom elsewhere.
- Count blessings, not burdens. List three positive experiences or three positive people who crossed your path.
- Start a gratitude journal. Before going to sleep, write down three things that went well for you that day and provide an explanation for why they went well.
Good things follow gratitude.
The best way to reap the benefits of gratitude is to notice new things you’re grateful for every day. Opening your eyes to more of the world around you can deeply enhance your practice of being grateful for what you have. When you let the light of gratitude pour into your life, there’s a bounce-back effect. It opens the door to more relationships, reduces a multitude of toxic emotions such as envy, resentment, frustration and regret, enhances empathy and increases mental strength.
Press the “pause” button.
Our lives are filled with glorious times. Of course, we can’t freeze time but we can appreciate the moment. Instead of letting them fly by, slow down and take the time to savor their greatness. Every act of gratitude counts, and it can be as small as saying thank you or telling someone important how much they mean to you. Make a game out of noticing new things each day. You’ll be grateful that you made the change and you’ll sleep better for it.
“Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer. And let faith be the bridge you build to overcome evil and welcome good.” – Maya Angelou
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To Your Success,
Althea
Althea A. McLeish Wilson, RN, MSN
Promoting inner health & outer beauty!
Helping you thrive, not just survive!!
PS. Inner Health & Outer Beauty Store: Health & Wellness with Althea♦
PPS. Did You Find This Helpful? If so, please feel free to share!! Leave a comment or contact me at althea@altheamcleish.com.
Reference/Resource
- The healthiest attitude is one of gratitude – Aetna♦
- 7 Scientifically Proven Benefits of Gratitude – Psychology Today♦
