Put Appreciation and Gratitude to work for you.
1. GIVE AT LEAST ONE COMPLIMENT A DAY
Having gratitude is all about slowing down and taking time to appreciate the little things. What better way to show this than by complimenting others? You’re
practicing your observational skills as well as making someone else feel a little bit better (not to mention the residual good feelings you’ll get). Win win win. Maybe
complimenting others isn’t exactly your forte. You could start by inviting someone to appreciate something with you, for example, “I love rainy days like today, don’t
you?” Or for those with even less tolerance for others, try a simple, “hello.”
2. ASK YOURSELF THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
Instead of “why is this happening,” ask, “what can I learn?” or, “When I look back on this, what will I be thankful for?” It’s not easy, I know. Seeing my mom battle
cancer and get brain surgery seemed like a no-win situation. But, even in the midst of the struggle, I see how family has stepped up, and friends have stepped in. What
are you learning, right now?
3. GET RID OF THE NEGATIVE THOUGHTS
It’s amazing how much or our minds, words, and emotions are grounded in negativity. Spend one whole week without complaining, gossiping or criticizing. Instead, use
that space for kind words, uplifting thoughts, and positive emotions.
4. CHOOSE YOUR WORDS WISELY
According to Andrew Newberg, M.D. and Mark Robert Waldman, words literally can change your brain. In their book, Words Can Change Your Brain, “a single word has the
power to influence the expression of genes that regulate physical and emotional stress.” So think about what you’re saying, take note of the words you use most often,
and work towards incorporating positive language into your life!
5. REMEMBER
Going through a rough patch, and feeling like you don’t have anything to be thankful for right now? Look back and remember all of the people who shaped your life, or
the little things that you enjoy. Who has influenced you, or given you a word of encouragement at the right time? Maybe you had an amazing teacher, or a coach that
really believed in you and pushed you to be better. Have you had an amazing cup of coffee, or a life changing piece of cheesecake? Go back there and get another one,
and be thankful for the hand that prepared your food for you!
6. WRITE THANK YOU NOTES
Still thinking about all those people and things that shaped your life? Go ahead, write them a thank you note! According to a recent study, writing thank you notes
improve our mood and general happiness. This study shows that you have two “selves,” the experiencing self, and the remembering self. Thank you notes address both of
these selves, and contribute to over all life-satisfaction.
7. GIVE BACK
Sometimes when thinking about all the people who have made us stronger, better people, we get overwhelmed. No amount of cards or good deeds could possibly repay the
debt we owe them. The best way to show someone who was a positive influence in your life, is to be a positive influence in someone else’s life. Not sure where to
start? Check out this awesome page of ideas!
