Like a lot of other people, my word for the month of November is always gratitude. This time of year with the holiday season quickly approaching and Thanksgiving on everyone’s mind, I am always reminded how much I have to be grateful for. Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful. It is the readiness to show appreciation for and return the kindness of others. A very wise person once said, “It’s not the happy people who are thankful. It’s the thankful people who are happy.” Adding a little bit of gratitude to each day is a sure fire way to improve your mood and, in turn, improve your life.
It is scientifically proven that people who express gratitude daily instead of only when something grand happens experience more positive emotions, sleep better, are more empathetic and kind to others, and have stronger immune systems. Of course, we are all extremely grateful when we are able to make a big deposit into our bank account or go on a trip we’ve been dreaming of, but also being grateful for the little things makes a huge difference. Express gratitude for the food you have to eat and the roof you have over your head. Be thankful for the car you have to drive and the job you have to go to (even though some days you may not want to). More than anything, make sure that the people in your life know that you are grateful for them and express gratitude for your relationships, your health, and your sound mind.
Adding gratitude to your day involves making small changes that make a big difference. It puts things into perspective, helps you to be thankful for what you already have as opposed to always wanting more, strengthens relationships, and reduce stress. This November, let’s commit to expressing gratitude daily instead of only on Thanksgiving. Here are a few simple ways that you can add gratitude to each day:
Be mindful. Mindfulness involves really being present in each moment. You will find that when you are truly present instead of constantly worrying about your to-do list and the hustle and bustle of the world, you will realize the beauty of the things around you.
Keep a gratitude journal. Either with pen and paper or using the notes app on your smart phone, every night before bed, write at least one thing that you are thankful.
Compliment something or someone everyday. Whether it’s a meal that your significant other prepares or an amazing book that you are reading, compliment it out loud. You can also compliment yourself.
Each time you find yourself complaining about something or someone, look for a positive trait about that person or thing to change your mindset. For example, you may find yourself complaining abut your friend who is always late. Instead, try to change your thinking to appreciate your friend who always takes her time to make sure she is at her best.
Whenever you find yourself in an awful situation, look for the lesson. Although it may be hard to express gratitude for the experience itself, we can always find the lesson and be thankful for that.
How are you adding gratitude to your daily life?
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