The Power of Gratitude.
In my opinion this is the easiest, quickest and most efficient exercise you can undertake to increase happiness in your life. It is a way of reprogramming your brain and creating an all round positive mindset.
This is one of the rare places where everyone from scientists, to self-help coaches, to New Age teachers agree. It's an essential part of being happy and also one of the areas where those who aren't happy are most likely to have neglected.
It's also easy to cultivate.
If you're having a problem feeling grateful keep these things in mind. They are sure to help.
Start a Gratitude Journal.
Pick up a notebook and keep it next to your bed. Every morning as soon as you open your eyes write a few sentences about what you feel grateful for. Be creative.
Just before you tuck yourself in for bed review your morning's notes and write some more about the things that you've experienced throughout the day that you also feel grateful for. Do this for at least thirty days without taking a break. Many choose to continue this exercise way beyond the thirty day mark, since it brings them such a better outlook on life.
Out of all of the exercises and techniques I teach this is the one that I recommend you start with today no matter what! It takes very little time to start and maintain and the results are extraordinary. If you find it hard to think of things to be grateful for then start small. You could be grateful that you had a nice meal or you had a good conversation with a friend. It could be that you have somewhere comfortable to sleep or that you have a home to live in. You may be grateful that you can drive or if not then you could be grateful that you are able to walk. You may be grateful for your health or if you have family that you love and care for, and they love and care for you. There are many things to be grateful for in life, you just need to start noticing them. And do not think these things are not worthy of gratitude. Some people are not fortunate enough to have many of these simple things in life. Just think about that. Your life would be much different if you didn’t have the things you take for granted.
Start this exercise today, just try it and see what you think.
Help The Less Fortunate.
Let's face it though we may have it tough at times, there's always someone who is doing much worse. A sure way to cultivate gratefulness for our own situation is to lend a hand when we can. This may mean volunteering a day at the homeless shelter, visiting the old age home or even adopting a rescue cat or dog. There's a real mysterious wonder about acts like these. The universe seems to recognise this type of act and often responds with unexpected rewards!
It should also be noted that human nature is to help each other. You may feel that these things will not benefit you as you are giving to others but giving can be the most rewarding thing at times and it can build your feeling of self worth and purpose. The power of helping others and the good feelings it gives to us when we do it are impossible to deny.
Connect With Friends And Loved Ones.
Sometimes we fall into the trap of taking those closest to us for granted. In reality, these are the people who we should show the MOST appreciation towards. They're the ones who we can turn to when the going gets tough and you need a shoulder to lean on. Make a point of showing your inner circle how important they are and how grateful you are for their support. They deserve it don't they? Even if they aren't perfect.
Regularly reach out to the people in your life who you are close to. Even if it is only for a quick chat to catch up. And be grateful that you have these people in your life now. Life is short and nobody lives forever.
Remember To Say Thank You.
The simple "thank you" falls into our short list of magic words and phrases you're learning here in our Guide. Saying it often will inspire responses that are sure to set off chain reactions that will lead you to happier experiences.
Fewer and fewer people seem to share even basic manners and courtesy, with each other. When you show this respect, especially with older people, you create a loop of positive energy that can be rejuvenating. All just from saying "thank you" with an open smile. I've not seen anyone who put this suggestion to the test and not found themselves to be happier in a week's time or less.
Another powerful thing about saying thank you is that it is a acknowledgement that something good has happened for you. The more you say thank you the more you will realise that good things happen to you more than you think.
What may seem like small adjustments to how we act, how we speak or how we think are really anything but minor. They all add up and when we get enough of them on our side the scale will shift in the favor of happiness. After this don't be shocked when your dream life quickly manifests. Cultivating gratitude is an important part of the equation. I'm grateful you're taking the time to work on it. The results will be amazing!
As I stated earlier in this post, I really believe in the power of gratitude and the way it can rewire your brain for a positive mindset. I really do hope you take the time to try these suggestions because they really do work.
Please also take the time to look through the rest of the content on this site to help you find more techniques and exercises which can help you in your journey to greater happiness.
Alternatively you can get in touch with me and see how I can help you personally and get you results fast like I have done with all my other clients.
I wish you all the happiness you can possibly get! Take care of yourself!