A new car. A big job promotion. Or a fancy vacation. Sure, those all seem like things to be grateful about. But are they really the moments that bring us the most happiness in life? As we look more at the research, we often find that it’s not the grand moments of life that bring us the most fulfillment or meaning.
In fact, science tells us that it’s actually gratitude that can bring a better sense of happiness, well-being, and help strengthen our social relationships. It can literally change the way our brain works and make us happier and more productive in the long run.
Taking time to notice the small moments can really transform your day. Maybe it’s a great cup of coffee, or talking to a friend, or the way the sunlight hits your patio in the morning. Gratitude rooted in the simplest areas of life oftentimes has the power to change our perspective and allows us to appreciate all of the small moments in life.
Starting your day with a gratitude practice can help you slow down and notice all of the good around you, instead of rushing through your day or getting caught up in what’s not going right.
Here’s the good news. Starting your daily gratitude practice doesn’t cost anything and it can be done in just five minutes a day. Grab a journal that you have lying around (or you can even use your phone if you’re on the go) to jot down three things you’re grateful for every morning. A simple pen and piece of paper are all you need to get started.
Really take a minute to think through your gratitude list and experience why these things make you feel grateful. Allow yourself to feel the joy that they create for you. For example, if you’re grateful for taking a sunny walk outside, write about how the sun feels on you...how the fresh air felt, and how energized you felt after.
Not only does this practice help you live in the moment, it’ll inspire you to look for things all around you to be grateful for throughout the day, therefore focusing less on the negative.
Try it out and let us know what you think on Twitter @gratefulapp. We can’t wait to hear from you!
September 28, 2023
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