Can you imagine a living a life without gratitude?
Let’s not. Instead let’s rejoice in all the beauty and good in the world.
Gratitude not only gives you a positive and healthy perspective on life, it boosts your happiness and that is a proven fact.
People who are optimistic, spiritual, and successful often consider gratitude to be their top value. So instead of spending your day feeling down or complaining about what you don’t have, just practice these 3 simple steps to get you out of your funk, feel uplifted and motivated.
Step 1: Verbally speak your appreciation.
“Saying thank you is more than good manners. It is good spirituality.” – Alfred Painter
This quote could not be truer. We often associate saying thank you with etiquette, but in reality, this simple act, even if it is subconscious, will increase your happiness level.
By saying thank you frequently, you are reminding yourself of all the amazing things you have. But let’s take it to the next level.
Don’t rely on your subconscious to do all the work. In order to really reap the benefits of gratitude you need to do it on a conscious level too. So speak up and let those you love feel loved and express your gratitude for them.
It can be something as easy as, “Thank you for listening to me,” or “I appreciate your friendship.” These simple statements work wonders for both you and the recipient.
But don’t stop there. Show your appreciation for the small, everyday things in life too. If you’re having your favorite ice cream, say it out loud.
Step 2: Start a gratitude journal.
“The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings.” - Eric Hoffer.
It can be hard to remember all our blessings and even harder to show gratitude for them. That is why, in addition to speaking gratitude, it is also important to write down what you are grateful for.
Start a gratitude journal, a journal you can be proud of. It will be filled with all your blessings, gifts, joys, happy moments, and your appreciation for what you have in your life and in this world.
At times of sadness or doubt, you can easily and instantly give yourself a boost by flipping through the pages of your journal and be instantly reminded of how wonderful your life is.
Buy yourself a beautiful notebook or log your gratitude online. The point is to give yourself a written affirmation.
Step 3: Feel the joys of your life through meditation.
“I feel a very unusual sensation - if it is not indigestion, I think it must be gratitude.” - Benjamin Disraeli
The last step is to feel gratitude. I highly recommend a reflective meditation but you can also feel it through other forms of quiet contemplation, reflection, or even in hugging someone.
Meditating on all that you have and all that makes your life beautiful and joyous will increase your energy, let your vibrations circulate throughout your body, and most importantly gain a positive and healthy perspective on your life.
Through meditating on your achievements, joys, and whatever else that makes you feel good about yourself, you are reaffirming your accomplishments and will feel a stronger sense of power within yourself.
But my favorite way, by far, to show gratitude is in the hug. Hug as many people as you can everyday. How can one possibly feel sad when they are embraced by another human being?
These 3 steps are key to leading a happy and successful life. And it all comes down to gratitude. By practicing these steps everyday, you will notice a positive shift in your attitude almost immediately.
