This subject is probably the most OVERWORKED subject on the internet today, ‘Thankfulness,’ ‘Gratitude,’ ‘Mindfulness.’ I had reservations about this subject and wondered is I shouldn’t have chosen ‘Throwback Thursday’ instead of Thankful Thursday. But that would not be keeping inline with my blog, though I do share some personal aspects on here, my blog is not to be a complete chronicle of my life. So I’ll continue on the band wagon…….
The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context). In some ways gratitude encompasses all of these meanings. Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. In the process, people will recognize that the source of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a result, gratitude also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals — whether to other people, nature, or a higher power. When you are grateful, others like to be around you. Your appreciation includes and supports them. You help them see the positive elements inherent in daily life, and to feel more hopeful about the possibility of future success.
It’s easy to get so wrapped up in what we’re doing that we forget to take time to acknowledge the people who support us and our endeavor. The more we fail to express our gratitude, the more we take for granted those around us. By sacrificing the simple courtesy of thanking someone for their time or energy, for sharing their thoughts, for completing a task whether great or small, for offering support during a difficult time, or for just being a fantastic human in the world, we sacrifice much more in the long run. We risk weakening relationships, disengaging our community—or simply failing to make an impression.
Here are some ways to cultivate gratitude
Write a thank-you note- It will make you happier and nurture your relationship with others, email it, send it by post, or hand deliver it, which every makes you comfortable. Don’t leave yourself out, every now and then write one to yourself.
Keep a gratitude journal-Make it a habit to write down or share with a loved one thoughts about the gifts you’ve received each day.
Count your blessings- Each day, week……Reflect on what went right or what you are grateful for. As you write, be specific and think about how you felt when something good happened to you.
Praying- Mindfulness meditation helps to keep you focused on the present moment without judgment.
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