Not Just a Season of Gratitude
A couple weeks ago I flew off to Florida to handle a family emergency. As these things tend to unfold, there’s always uncertainty and emotional upheaval. But when things get rough, sometimes the best thing you can do is recognize – and appreciate – the little things.
“If I didn’t have bad luck, I’d have no luck at all!” Mom cried. Shaking my head, I said, “That’s simply untrue.” Then I started listing her “Wins”:
“In recent years you’ve recovered from a stroke, open heart surgery, a hip replacement and a car accident – to name a few (not so small) things. You have a roof over your head, food on the table and enough money in the bank to know your immediate bills are paid.”
When she heard these things out loud, she dried her eyes and nodded her head. Yes, bad times happen and we feel like crawling into a hole, never to emerge. Naturally, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be upset when tragedy strikes, or that we should minimize our feelings working through it. But it’s easy to go down a rabbit hole of negativity. As I sat with Mom reminding her of these positive events, it dawned on me that life is full of impactful moments of gratitude. We just need to know where to look!
Not to mention, practicing gratitude can pay dividends. We simply feel better when doing it.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, practicing gratitude “helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity and build strong relationships.” Especially when we’re feeling the crunch of deadlines, managing responsibilities, dealing with ill health (ours or of a loved one) or other hardships, practicing gratitude allows people to acknowledge the goodness in their lives.
Psychological studies on this topic support an association between gratitude and an individual’s well-being. It’s true; pausing to reflect on that which you’re grateful improves your mood, which can improve your overall health (though admittedly, this effect tends to impact individuals who are more emotionally mature).
How do you practice gratitude?
When my husband and I travel, at the end of each day I ask him, “What was your high point/favorite part of today?” It offers the opportunity to pause and reflect on the day’s activities. We get to relive all the good things. Sometimes it helps the memories burn in deeper, allowing you to cherish them even more. Now, not all the things that fill a day will be winners, but you may be amazed at the things you do find bring you happiness (even if you’re not away somewhere on vacation). Practicing gratitude allows you to appreciate what you have rather than what you don’t have.
So, as we enter this holiday season I challenge you to look at the things you’re grateful for; big and small. You’ll be amazed at all the things you have and cherish.
Ways to practice gratitude
Keep a journal and add 1-3 things you’re grateful for each day (ie: the sun in the sky, health, spending quality time with your friends or family, etc.).
Call a loved one.
Notice the beauty in nature.
Smile.
Do an act of kindness for someone,
Tell someone what they mean to you.
Avoid gossip.
Your items can be anything you choose that warms your heart and feeds your soul. Practice gratitude this holiday season and be open to the abundance you deserve!
