Whether you subscribe to the “Law of Attraction” or you just want to appreciate the world, gratitude is a life-changing philosophy. Taking the time to appreciate what you have in the world is key. It is monumentally important to express thankfulness for the things we have.
Every day I take the time to write down 5 things that I am grateful for. They range daily from exact instances to very broad subjects such as my community or state. I do this because it causes my brain to shift its focus from the crap that is wrong to the things that are right. Allowing your brain to see the positive helps you tackle the negative.
Generally, my gratitude list consists of the following 5 things:
- My family
- My health
- My pets
- My job
- My community
Doing this daily allows me to clear out the negativity and see what a blessing in my life is. It is so very easy to get distracted by the horrible things going on in the world. The news is depressing. You read reviews about your business and get frustrated that people do not see your sacrifice to bring that business to the public. The key to dealing with those negative moments is shifting your focus to what is right. Having gratitude for what you do have even when things are crappy.
Taking the time daily to practice gratitude will change your life. Sometimes it is hard. Sometimes it is as simple as “I am grateful for my shirt” But expressing thanks to the universe causes a positive shift in your brain. It allows you to see past the negativity and restructure your thought process.
So today I am grateful for:
- You reading this blog.
- PostBack.com
- My shirt
- My family
- My community
5 Gratitude exercises you can start today:
Practice “Three Good Things”
At the end of each day, identify three things that went well. You can keep track of these in a journal, or just make a mental note. Bonus points – note why these things happened.
Keep a Gratitude Journal
Spend a few minutes each day documenting 3-5 things you’re grateful for. This exercise helps train your attention towards the positive.
Express Gratitude to Others
Thank people. In conversation, text message, email, or a handwritten note. Gratitude is best shared. Aim to give out one genuine thank you each week.
Gratitude, the Perfect Pairing
Attach a gratitude practice to something you already do regularly. For example, while brushing your teeth, think of one thing you’re grateful for. Before you go to sleep you can recall one person who help you recently. Habit stacking makes it easy to fold in a little something more.
Reframe Challenges
Ah, the good ol’ silver lining. In a difficult situation you can refocus your attention to things like “What can I learn from this?” or “Who has supported me through this?” or even take a step back and think “Is there anything in this situation I can appreciate?” You’re not trying to be delusional… you’re just. not dismissing the fact there is a challenge. However, you can feel more resilient by looking at challenges differently.
