“Gratitude” is not a word that you think about on a daily basis. In fact, it may only be a word that you think about around the holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.
What exactly is gratitude?
The Oxford Dictionary explains gratitude with the following,
The quality or condition of being thankful, the appreciation of an inclination to return kindness.
Going with this definition, do you have gratitude in your daily life? Are you thankful for what you have, for what is good in your life, or for what others have done for you?
These are powerful questions, and if you are not mindful, you may find yourself feeling depressed if the answer to these questions are no.
I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder. -G.K. Chesterton
If you answered no to any of the above questions, continue reading to see how you can learn mindfulness gratitude in your daily life.
Daily Challenge!
On a personal note, the daily attitude of thankfulness is a challenge. Not that I am a narcissist or self-centered person, but because I have so much. I have an awesome family, a good education, a nice home, a loving cat, and a bright future. The daily challenge then, is being able to slow down, take a deep breath, and be mindful of the abundance in my life.
What I have found that helps me slow down and be mindful of who I am and what I have is journaling.
Journaling is Easy
A simple way to begin to have an attitude of gratitude is to keep a daily journal.
To start, you will need a journal. Find one that fits your style.
He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has. – Epictetus
Then at the end of your day, plan for just 5 minutes before you go to sleep and write down 5 positive things that you are grateful for that day.
Write in your journal every day for at least 22 days. By writing in your journal for 22 days will help create the habit of writing. If you find yourself making excuses not to write, you should write and let those feelings and negative thoughts pass by.
After the 22 days of journaling, you will notice that, journaling is now an activity that gives yourself a time of mindful reflection of your daily life activities.
Journaling daily positive experiences, valued relationships, and daily positive behaviors, will help you be thankful and be mindful of gratitude in your daily life.
Next Steps:
What are your thoughts? Comment below
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