The simple sage practice of gratitude can cultivate our happiness and satisfaction in life.
Long-term studies support the effectiveness of a gratitude practice, suggesting that a positive and appreciative attitude contributes to higher success in the workplace. Additionally, these studies indicate gratitude improves health, peak performance in athletes, accelerates healing after surgery, and deepens our sense of well-being.
While we acknowledge the benefits of gratitude, the practice can be challenging to sustain. So many of us focus on the broken, undone, or what is lacking in our lives. And for gratitude to meet its full healing potential in our lives, it needs to become more than just a Thanksgiving word. First, we can begin by looking at life with fresh eyes and then put the word gratitude into practice.
A daily practice of gratitude makes so much sense. When we practice giving thanks for all we have, instead of complaining about what we lack, we give ourselves the chance to see all of life as an opportunity and a blessing.
Gratitude offers balance and hope.
Remember that gratitude is not blind optimism, in which the bad things in life are whitewashed or ignored. It's a simple matter of refocusing our attention. Pain and injustice exist in this world, but when we focus on the gifts of life, we gain a feeling of balance and hope. By doing so, we naturally uplift others.
There are many things to be grateful for: the color and crunch of autumn leaves, good health, friends who listen and hear us, dark chocolate, fresh eggs with homemade bread, the warmth of down jackets, a deep belly-laugh with your best friend, reading a treasured book, a pet that snuggles up when you need it most, and butterflies that remind us to stop to appreciate the gift of life and the awe of nature. What might be on your list?
7 Ways to Practice Gratitude
1) High-five practice: Upon waking, think of five things that make you grateful. Do the same when you go to bed at night. This simple practice is a positive way to start and end your day.
2) Journal: Keep a gratitude journal. Place the journal in view to remind you to think gratefully. Consistency creates a new habit.
3) Make a collage: Make a gratitude collage by drawing or pasting pictures. Add the people you love and people that inspire you.
4) Say Grace: Use the practice of gratitude around the dinner table, or make it part of your nighttime routine.
5) Look for the positive: When a situation seems challenging, look for a hidden blessing.
6) Redirect your thoughts: When you feel like complaining, make a gratitude list instead. You'll be amazed at how much better you feel.
7) Express yourself: Notice how gratitude is impacting your life. Write about it, sing about it, express thanks.
As you practice gratitude, notice the inner shift begins to occur. You may be delighted to discover how content and hopeful you feel. Remember that the sense of fulfillment and joy you feel is gratitude at work.:)
