Simple pleasures happen every day, but do you appreciate them? Having an attitude of gratitude for the good things in life can make your world a much better place.
Research suggests that those who show appreciation for the little things in life are more optimistic and make time for healthier behaviours such as exercise, eating well and regular health care. Expressing gratitude offers other health benefits as well, such as reducing stress, anxiety and depression.
Choosing to see the bright side of things and expressing gratitude runs counter to social tendencies; therefore, it involves a big shift in the way we think. But it’s simple to create. Here are three easy tips:
Show Gratitude
Give more attention to the positives. Focus on what’s right, not what’s wrong. Try to find something positive in any situation. I have always said that if you cannot find the positive in a situation you are not thinking hard enough. Even the most troublesome circumstances can have something that you can be thankful for.
Give of Yourself
What can you do to make the world, or your community, a better place? Acts of gratitude are humbling and heart warming for the giver. Why not start with volunteering, picking up litter, or just taking the time to tell someone why you are grateful for them? These acts can be enlightening and make you aware of the gratitude you have for the world around you.
Give Thanks
Before getting into or out of bed, spend a few minutes giving thanks. Think of five things that you are thankful for and offer your sincere gratitude for them. Learning to savour the good things in life improves your mood and your energy. Can you imagine the impact that this could have on your sleep or your day? A profound impact!
These three techniques of practicing your Attitude of Gratitude work exceptionally well in ones career as well. Rather than focusing on what’s not right at your workplace, consider how showing gratitude, giving of yourself and giving thanks can improve your attitude, your service, and your workplace in general.
You’ll be surprised to see how contagious a positive change in attitude can be to those around you.
Positively,
Penny Tremblay
I would like to acknowledge a local hero, Barry Spilchuk, who has launched a company to encourage gratitude, acknowledgement, and recognition of every day heroes.
