2 Ways to Maintain a Heart of Gratitude

So often in life, we’re bogged down by negative thoughts or caught up in unhealthy comparisons. How often do you take the time to stop and recognize all the good in your life? Grateful people are happier people! They acknowledge the good and the positive, with massive benefits for their happiness and wellbeing. Gratitude helps you see what’s there instead of what isn’t.

Here are two ways to maintain a heart of gratitude.

Keep a gratitude journal.

This is by far the most popular way to cultivate gratitude. Even Oprah keeps a gratitude journal! Every day, take a moment to write down something you’re grateful for. These can be brief reflections on moments, things, or people you’re thankful for. By doing this every day, you’re not only creating a beautiful habit but developing a new way of thinking. We can train our brains to keep positivity top of mind.

Another alternative to journaling is a ‘gratitude jar.’ Write little notes of gratitude and put them in a jar. When you’re feeling down, pull out a note, and remind yourself of the positive things in your life. Gratitude has a funny way of turning what we have into enough.

Share appreciation.

A great way to nurture gratitude within ourselves is to show it towards other people. William Arthur Ward said, “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” Expressing appreciation, whether through a letter, a visit, a phone call, or a text, can brighten someone’s day and make us purposefully focus on the positive.

Negativity and positivity use up the same amount of energy. The difference is that one will drain you, and the other will fill you up. Take time to notice the beauty in life, even in its purest form. It could be a sunset, the sound of the breeze in the trees, a stranger’s smile, or a song you love. You’ll soon notice that cultivating an attitude of gratitude has far-reaching benefits for your happiness and wellbeing.

Gratitude is an intentional act. Let’s be intentional together, and let us know your tips for staying grateful!