Learning how to find the "happy for no reason" feelings, and why it is so beneficial.
I'll admit it; sometimes, it's hard not to get burdened down by day-to-day life and situations. Sometimes, it's easy to forget to appreciate things in life. In fact, here's a truth bomb for you... I originally planned on writing a blog about "If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all" because last week, I was feeling REALLY overwhelmed by the not-so-great situations in my life. Yet when I re-read what I was writing, I talked about looking for the little things you are grateful for each day. And I pulled out my gratitude journal and got back on track with find my daily blessings I am thankful for. As a result, I may have produced a lot of positive tips for you, and it prompted me to gift you the same worksheet I use to do my daily appreciations on!
In today's blog, I will discuss what gratitude is and why it is important, offer some amazing tips for creating that attitude of gratitude, and finally, leave you with the free gratitude worksheet to begin your own Gratefulness Journey!
DEFINING GRATITUDE AND ITS IMPORTANCE!
Let's first define gratitude. What is it? It's a word that means thankful, pleasing. When you feel gratitude, you are pleased by something or someone, which results in feelings of happiness. Gratitude is often expressed as an emotion; however, the more we cultivate that emotion, the more it becomes a part of our mood and disposition.
Gratitude is more than just saying "Thank you." As an emotion, it holds a lot of power. This power can change your perspective on things, profoundly impact your mindset, improve your mental health, and helps in relationships. A study done by the University of California, Berkley states, " that people who consciously count their blessings tend to be happier and less depressed." Additionally, research has shown that by practicing gratitude on a daily basis, you will have increased happiness, reduced stress, and better overall physical health!
Tip #1- START A GRATITUDE JOURNAL
I truly believe the most effective way to discover your daily blessings in life, you know, the things you are grateful for, is by using a daily gratitude journal. The free worksheet I am gifting you today (which can be used as your daily prompts) asks you to write down the things/people/situations you immediately think of first thing in the morning. Reflect on those throughout the day. Then set aside some time in the evening to follow the remaining questions on the worksheet. By focusing on the positive aspects of your day and going to bed each evening with this on your mind, you will begin to retrain your brain to notice and appreciate the good things in life.
Tip #2- PRACTICE MINDFULNESS
Mindfulness promotes you to experience "being in the moment." This is crucial for creating that attitude of gratitude. You can take a few moments daily to do a mindfulness meditation (fun fact- I had my high school students do this throughout the school year, and it was overwhelmingly the favorite part of their day or class time.) Many guided mindfulness meditations can be found online, in apps, or even on your Apple Fitness App!!! Or you can simply sit quietly and focus on your breathing or go out and take a walk in nature!
Tip #3- SHOW GRATITUDE TO OTHERS
When you express your gratitude towards others, it not only makes others feel good, but it also increases your sense of well-being as well. Try to get in the habit of thanking people- maybe someone held the door open for you or a colleague offered help on a project, or perhaps a loved one went out of their way to do something special for you...whatever it may be, offer a heartfelt thank you. Taking it one step further, why not even write a handwritten note to show your gratitude, which shows extra thoughtfulness. You'll be surprised at how good it makes you feel.
Tip #4- FOCUS ON THE GOOD, NOT THE BAD
Easier said than done! Remember the beginning of this blog when I told you I was going to name this "If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all?" Well, here's the tip that I, myself, had to reflect on and remember. During difficult times, it's good to look at it from a different perspective. What can you learn from it? What are the good things surrounding it? Instead of focusing on what went wrong or what hurt you, try seeing it as an opportunity for growth, learning, or a new experience. By changing your perspective, you are finding happiness through adversity and resilience!
Tip #5- GIVE THANKS TO GOD
"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5. NIV) The Bible tells us time and time again to have gratitude, and that "No word from God will ever fail." (Luke 1:37. NIV.) Throughout life, we will have mountain-top times and low valley times. I have learned through the years to be grateful for all of these times, and to know that no matter what the circumstances are, God will be there with you, and HE never fails!
Gratitude is like growing a garden. You cultivate the ground and plant a seed. (You prepare your heart and reflect on things you are thankful for.) You water that seed daily and weed. (You use your attitude journal, meditate on mindfulness, show gratitude to others, change your perspective, and keep God in the center.) And you reap your harvest. (You improve your well-being, create a positive mindset, and experience the many benefits this gratitude brings you!) Embrace the attitude of gratitude and watch as your life transforms into this powerful amount of happiness!
Thank you so much for reading and being here with The Sisterhood Coaching today! Without further ado, here is our free gift to you! Also, don't forget to follow us if you have not already, as we get ready to share more great free resources and courses coming out soon!
Remember, Coach Stacie and Coach Francie are always here for you, ready to help you with your attitude of gratitude or to answer any questions you have!
We are thankful for YOU!
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