“Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity…it makes sense of our past, brings peace into today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie
One of my major fears is going into the grave with my gifts and talents still intact. Bitterness and anger will never motivate you to unleash your power and greatness, but having the attitude of gratitude will help you do this.
A moment of gratitude makes a huge difference in your attitude. Gratitude is a way to appreciate what you have instead of always reaching for something new in the hope that it will make you happier. Research has shown that the practice of gratitude helps us cope better with stress, improves our health and increases positive feelings such as hope and peace, increasing happiness by 25 per cent.
Here are some ways to cultivate gratitude on a regular basis:
1. Be thankful for who you are instead of criticising yourself, which erodes your self-confidence.
2. Make a gratitude list. Get comfortable, find a quiet place, and write ten things that you are thankful for in life. Read your gratitude list often to remind you of all the good in your life.
3. Recognise each day as a gift.
4. Thank people for their service. There are people who make a positive impact in your life. However small this may be, thank them and appreciate them.
5. Forgive someone.
6. Start a gratitude group where you can get together weekly or monthly to focus on gratefulness.
The world has long been waiting for your light to shine. Now is the time, my friend, to respond and shine even brighter.
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