Gratitude

It is easy to get lost in time and mindlessly run through the motions of a daily routine just trying to make it to the next day. In doing this we often lose focus on everything we are grateful for. Gratitude is a very powerful tool that is often overlooked but contributes to living a happier life. Taking a moment out of each day to reflect on what you are grateful for can lighten your day. My grandma has a sign in her house that says, “What if I woke up today with everything I thanked God for yesterday”.

I think most of us would wake up with a whole lot of nothing. This past year I’ve really started to take the time to focus more on gratitude, and I’ve noticed a positive change in my perspective and attitude. By focusing on gratitude, it allows me to see all the amazing people and things I am so blessed to have in my life. Every morning, I think of 3 things I am grateful for, and it instantly brings a smile to my face. Life is not easy, but we are given the opportunity to make it fun and exciting through our perspective. Focusing more on gratitude encourages our minds to think more positively about things, contributing to a more joyous perspective on life.  

Gratitude can also be used as a stress reliever. When I get worked up or overwhelmed, I close my eyes and think of something I am grateful for. If I am at my house feeling stressed or overwhelmed, I will look at my dog and pet her. I have so much love and gratitude for her, so taking a minute to be with her and recognize how grateful I am for her puts me in a happy mood. When life isn’t going according to how we plan and it feels like bad things won’t stop happening, it can be challenging to practice gratitude. However, this is when practicing gratitude is most important.

When practicing gratitude there is no rule on what you can and can’t be grateful for. It can be something as small as your water bottle. There have been mornings where I have thanked God for things like peanut butter and hair ties. It sounds silly but they both serve a purpose in my life and contribute to my happiness.  

I believe gratitude is a key to living a happier life. It’s easy to take for granted the things we are grateful for. If you catch yourself in a bad mood or feeling stressed out, I recommend taking a moment to think of something or someone you are grateful for in your life. It sounds silly, but it will fill your mind with positive emotions.