Adding Gratitude
Here we are in the season of thanks! Have you ever read articles about how people like Oprah or Tony Robbins start their day? They claim the practice of gratitude is one of the most powerful ways to change your life, and they are living proof. I also have a daily gratitude practice and can attest that keeping a gratitude journal is an excellent way to start noticing and counting your blessings. It’s simple, yet significant.
And it doesn't need to stop there!
There are many ways to add the practice of gratitude into your life so that you stay focused on appreciating all the amazing things you have in your life. Here are a few simple ways to add more feelings of gratitude in your life, starting now.
Compliment a stranger—how many times have you admired someone’s haircut or shoes, but not complimented them on it? Start today!
Let someone ahead of you in line—remember how it feels when you have one item, and all the people in front of you have a shopping cart full? Guess what? Everyone feels that way. The next time you get the opportunity, let that person go in front of you.
Avoid negative media—it’s tough to stay focused on all the goodness around you when you allow all the negative news in the world to play in front of you every day. Find positive TV, movies and my motivational minutes to watch instead:)
Cherish your friends—when was the last time you told your Bestie how much you appreciate them being in your life? Not because of anything they’ve done, but just for loving and supporting you throughout your life’s journey.
Listen deeply—so often, when we listen to someone talk we are rehearsing what we want to say next. Notice how often you do that and practice listening intently to the person, even if they are telling you about something that doesn’t interest you.
Go outside and soak it up—most of us don’t get out into nature as much as we should being everything being in the palm of our hand (you're probably reading this on your phone now). And that’s a shame because we miss out on so many wonders! Take time to go outside more. Go to the park and listen to the kids laugh with happiness. Watch the clouds roll across the sky or listen for the birds tweeting. Enjoy the beauty of the natural world.
Practice not complaining—this is such an impactful one. When you start to notice how often you complain, you’ll be amazed! One day a week, practice not complaining, and instead reframe everything to put a positive, grateful spin on it. And mean it!
I hope you really give at least one of these a try and take notice of the positive effects a grateful heart can have your life. It will even spill over to those around you. Here's to thankfulness and an attitude of gratitude. I'm rooting for YOU!
