When the crisp air of fall initiates a pageant of color or the crunch of fallen leaves grabs our attention, we feel a burst of energy. It’s good to be alive! It’s also a good time to be thankful for our blessings.
I am all about having an Attitude of Gratitude through the month of November. I don’t participate in any of the daily postings on Facebook, but I do think about all the things I am thankful that I enjoy. What do you do to cultivate those happy feelings of gratitude? Let me share some ideas to prompt our discussion:
- A gratitude journal is a great way to record lists of things you appreciate.
- Donating to food pantries is a tangible way of expressing gratitude.
- Helping out with a community Thankgiving dinner for the less fortunate is personally rewarding.
- Contributing to your family’s celebration adds meaning to the holiday.
Why should we do any of these things? The Greater Good Magazine cited a Berkley study in which 300 respondents seeking mental health counseling were instructed to journal about their experiences. One group wrote about things they were thankful for, the other cited the things that were wrong about their lives. Not surprisingly, the positive group reported better mental health at both the four and twelve week check-ins. A focus on gratitude resulted in better mental health.
Forbes reported several benefits of an attitude of gratitude:
- People who express appreciation have more friends.
- An attitude of gratitude is strongly linked with improved physical and emotional health.
- Grateful people sleep better.
- Gratitude enhances the way you see yourself, with improved self-esteem.
- Gratitude is strongly linked with personal resilience.
I think the evidence is overwhelming. Whether you feel thankful or not, express appreciation and enjoy a happier life. Your feelings will probably fall into line with your actions. Give gratitude a chance.
