Spring is a time of great weather for most, but many of us may be struggling with allergies. Nurturing an attitude of gratitude can create positive energy for you and those around you. An attitude of gratitude fosters a more positive outlook, and bolsters your overall mood even on the worst of days. The first time I embraced the 'attitude of gratitude' I embarked on a 30-day journey to embrace a more positive outlook during a difficult personal time. Since then, some of these have become a part of my every day routine, while others I have revisited from time to time. Whether you are smiling every day or need a little boost, fostering gratitude can have a significant impact on you and those around you. I invite you to take the journey too. Here's a few tips to start you on your journey:
Keep a gratitude journal and add to it everyday.
Call or send a handwritten note (or email) to someone special every day to tell them how much you care and appreciate them. Do it unexpectedly.
Start your day by acknowledging a personal gratitude.
Gratitude Jar or Tree. This is also a great exercise for children too. Decorate an old jar or break out the construction paper and make a tree. Use slips of papers to write on and write three gratitude throughout the day (no matter how small). For example, this morning I was very grateful for a hot cup of coffee. If it s a tree, cut out leaves and have the kids write down what they are grateful for on each leaf and glue it to the tree. You can decorate each of these as much as you like. At the end of a month (jar) or the end of the activity (tree, if you do it in one day) you have a beautiful reminder of how much you have to be grateful for.
Volunteer! Volunteering is such an amazing way to give back and remind yourself that you have so much to be thankful for.
Smile. Smiling is known to improve your mood, and the mood of those around you. Your smile may be the pick me up someone needed that day.
Be kind and inquire. Many times life is moving fast and so our we. Remember to slow down, inquire about the well-being of those around you and exercise an act of kindness when you can.
Meditation. Positivepsychology.com says it best..."gratitude meditations are a double-whammy for your well-being. You are performing two of the most impactful happiness practices at the same time."
As I mentioned, earlier. These are just a few tips and suggestions to start you are your journey. Don't wait. Start today. For more tips and benefits on gratitude check out positive psychology.com.
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