We live in a world where abundance is all around us to the extent that we often expect our wants and needs to be supplied – automatically made manifest. If and when we take for granted that abundance – either through a sense of entitlement or habit – we literally deprive ourselves of living a full life. On the other hand, the acknowledgement of the good that is in our life, is the foundation of all the abundance we have.
The benefits of fostering an attitude of gratitude cannot be overstated. According to Oprah: “Gratitude can transform any situation. It alters your vibration, moving you from negative energy to positive. It’s the quickest, easiest, most powerful way to effect change in your life.”
Beyond the attitude of gratitude, lies the practice of expressing gratitude.This is where the rubber meets the road. Our daily routines and patterns should not stand in the way to prevent us from realizing that each day we’re alive is a ‘one-off’ that delivers new opportunities for us to express our gratitude. Gratitude journaling, where you write on a daily or regular basis what you are grateful for, is one way to develop a practice of gratitude.
Whether verbal or written, our expressions of gratitude should focus on the people we are thankful for, rather than circumstances or material things. By doing so, we lift others up, bring joy and laughter into our life and the lives of everyone around us. Scientists studying positive psychology concluded that even one act of gratitude gave an immediate 10% increase in happiness and 35% reduction in depressive symptoms.
Every expression of gratitude counts, and should be repeated often.
- Express gratitude whenever someone does something for you and be specific. “Thank you for the lovely meal”, can elevate a daily task into a culinary experience.
- Lookout for the little things every day. When something out of the ordinary happens or appears, take notice.
- Write thank you notes. They can be as simple as: “Thank you for . . . . I really appreciate your kindness.”
Expressing gratitude is a total win-win. The giver and receiver both:
- Appreciate the contributions of others to their well being
- Feel a sense of abundance in their lives
- Recognize and enjoy life’s small pleasures
- Acknowledge the importance of experiencing and expressing gratitude
Know this: . . .
Showing people gratitude for their presence in our lives, never gets old or can be overdone.
Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more.
– Melody Beattiere.
Be Simply Thankful!
Happily yours,
Arnette Travis
