It is November and we cannot neglect to talk about gratitude! As we have learned from previous blogs (here’s the link in case you missed it), gratitude has many benefits to our overall well being. Practicing gratitude can have numerous benefits for mental health. However, cultivating an attitude of gratitude entails engaging in intentionality on a daily basis.
Here are some habits you can incorporate into your routine to cultivate a sense of gratitude:
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- Engage in gratitude journaling: Establish a time each day to write down things, people or experiences you are grateful for. It could be as simple as three things every morning or night, having sticky notes around your house full of things you are grateful for or having a note on your phone full of things you are grateful for. Make sure to be specific and detailed about why you are grateful for each item on your list.
- Make a list of your accomplishments: It is very easy to focus more on what we didn’t do than what we have accomplished. I challenge you to look back at every month this year and list at least one thing you have accomplished during that month. It could be something as simple as saving $5 dollars, getting up early for a week straight or drinking more water than usual. What’s important is that you are able to find evidence of success to give you a boost of energy when difficulties arise.
- Express Gratitude to Others: This one may seem like the most obvious one. However, when we are caught in the day to day responsibilities, it can be very easy to forget to express gratitude to others. I encourage you to take the time to thank people around you for their kindness or support. Whether it is family, friends or strangers, be intentional about saying the simple phrase “thank you”. A great habit is to write thank-you notes or express your gratitude verbally. This not only benefits you but also strengthens your relationships.
Thanksgiving Day does not have to be the only day in the year that we engage in gratitude. In summary, gratitude plays a crucial role in promoting overall well-being, building positive relationships, and fostering personal growth. It is a mindset and a practice that can have lasting effects on various aspects of life. Taking time to reflect on and express gratitude for the positive elements in one’s life can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying existence as well as improving our overall mental health.
Resources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier
https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-appreciation/
