Gratitude – It’s a Powerful Thing (By Angell Berry)
When was your last gratitude moment? Has it been a while? If so, I get it! With all the demands pulling, distractions on every hand, and a fast-paced life that seems to be increasing in speed by the minute, it's easy to overlook the importance of pausing and reflecting on the blessings in your life. However, what if I told you that pausing to reflect and take inventory of all the good could hugely impact the quality and longevity of your life? Interested in hearing how? Please read on.
Robert Proctor, an influential author and businessman, once said that an attitude of gratitude changes everything. Willie Nelson, a well-known country singer, also shared that when he started counting his blessings, his entire life turned around. Both Mr. Proctor and Mr. Nelson likely spoke from personal experience when describing the transformational power of gratitude. However, Dr. Martin E.P. Seligman, the founder of positive psychology, provides scientific evidence to support their claims. Dr. Seligman suggests that individuals who regularly count their blessings and express gratitude toward others experience lower levels of depression, greater optimism, and stronger relationships. Additional studies conducted by Harvard Health, Psychology Today, and PositivePsychology.com show that the simple act of gratitude not only contributes to better physical health and positive emotions but can also aid in healing by reminding individuals of past challenges they have overcome.
If you find that moments of gratitude are fleeting or non-existent and you're ready to cultivate more gratitude for a healthier, happier you, here are a few tips to help:
Keep a gratitude notepad or journal.
Take five minutes at the end of your day to reflect on the past 24 hours. Write down five things you're grateful for that happened during your day. Keeping a gratitude notepad or journal helps to reinforce a positive mindset and reframe challenges.
Write gratitude notes
For one month, commit to writing at least four thank you cards (you can write more if you'd like). These can be addressed to someone influential in your life or even someone you’ve just met who helped you in some small way. After sending or delivering the card, take a moment to notice your emotions. Are you feeling more peaceful, joyful, excited, or pleased? Perhaps a combination of these feelings. Just notice and savor the emotions.
Write a letter of appreciation
Think of someone who has had a significant impact on your life and write them a letter of appreciation. You can send it to them or, for extra feel-good points, take the opportunity to read it to them in person. Not only will this be a gratitude boost for you, but it will also be deeply gratifying for them.
These are just a few ways to help you fill your happiness bucket, boost your immune system, and lead a well-balanced, productive life. The more you practice these habits, the easier it will become to manage stress. Soon, you'll notice yourself smiling and laughing more.
In a world that constantly demands more of us, gratitude offers a powerful reset. It offers a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the goodness woven into our everyday lives. Whether through journaling, writing thank you notes, or expressing appreciation to those who’ve made a difference, practicing gratitude is a simple way to embrace joy, strengthen relationships, and enhance our overall well-being. So, why not start today? Take a moment, count your blessings one by one, and watch how a grateful heart transforms your mindset and entire life.