Gratitude n. warm and friendly feeling towards a benefactor: thankfulness.
A wise person once said that to be grateful is to have a great attitude—which I interpret as assuming a positive stance or position toward the present moment. The Latin root, gratus, implies pleasure or something pleasing. So, to be grateful is to be full of pleasure
Often times people share what they are thankful for grateful for around the holidays or when something good happens, I am not sure why this is a trend or seems to be the norm. I for one try to let people know I am grateful and appreciative of them, their support, and their actions all year round. I try to be aware of the things that are important that that we so often take for granted in life. It can be extremely difficult, many of us work so hard, often beyond a forty hour work week, sometimes multiple jobs, while also trying to run a household and balance some sort of social life as well.
It has been shown however, that those who regularly practice gratitude by taking time to notice and reflect upon the things they're thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, have better sleep, therefore less fatigue, are able to express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems.
Let’s stop reserving gratitude for significant occasions, while it’s normal to express gratitude when you receive a promotion, or when something monuments happens, it’s also equally as important and okay to express gratitude for great service if you are out to dinner or if your barista hands you’re your morning coffee that you are so looking forward to before you start your day.
Perhaps try keeping a gratitude journal, and write down the positive things about your day and what you are thankful and grateful for each day. You may also try letting someone know each day when they have done something that you are appreciative, grateful, or thankful for, or simply remember to say thank you. Who doesn’t want to be recognized for a job well done or making a difference in someone else’s day? This will not only make you feel great, but they will also feel great and appreciated and recognized as well.
My gratitude list:
I woke up.
I have a roof over my head.
I have heat and running water.
I have clothes to keep me warm.
I have a job that I love and am passionate about where I get to help others.
I have a family who love me unconditionally and support me.
I am grateful for what I have, and the path that’s gotten me here.
(Share your gratitude list in the comments below!)