When I’m having a bad day, the quickest way I know to turn it around is to think of what’s working, what’s going well, and what I’m grateful for. When we think of gratitude, we think of counting our blessings, noticing the simple pleasures, acknowledging the joy in our lives, and being aware on a continuous basis of just how lucky we are and how much we’ve been given.
What we don't often think about is how gratitude can completely change our outlooks for the better. Gratitude has the unique ability to shift our focus from what our lives lack…to the abundance that is already present.
Gratitude is an essential key to getting unstuck and out of a funk. Gratitude has been proven time and time again to help people feel more positive emotions, enjoy good experiences more deeply, improve their health, overcome challenges, and build resilience.
The practice of gratitude has been shown through behavioral and psychological research to make us not only happier, but more resilient overall. It strengthens relationships, improves health, and reduces our stress levels. Here are some of my favorite ways to practice:
Keeping a gratitude journal
Including an act of kindness in your day
Focusing on your strengths
Turning challenges into opportunities
Practicing mindfulness
Appreciating each day’s gifts
Taking action by saying thank you, bringing a treat, holding the door, and showing appreciation
Things aren’t ever going to go our way all the time. But it helps me to remember that every difficulty carries within it the chance of something more. Today I encourage everyone to use life’s challenges, annoyances, and inconveniences as a reminder to pause and start bringing gratitude to your experiences. You’ll be amazed at how much better you’ll start feeling. I promise.
