It’s important to be grateful every day, not just on Thanksgiving. The science of gratitude shows that giving thanks consistently can improve general well-being, increase resilience, strengthen social relationships, and reduce stress and depression. Basically, the more grateful people are, the greater their overall well-being and life satisfaction.
Be grateful every day by being in the present moment
We take a lot for granted on a daily basis. For most of us, we are constantly on the go, juggling a million things at once. Our days are sometimes almost a blur, and we can’t necessarily register it all or appreciate the little things throughout our day because we are always on to the next thing. We don’t realize how often we miss the magic or the lessons right in front of us.
Quiet reflection is the key to being grateful everyday. If we allow ourselves to slow down, even for a few minutes, and write down a few things on a daily basis, we can begin to appreciate the madness that sometimes takes over. Nothing is permanent. Things inevitably change. When we can stop and appreciate this day, this week, and this season, fully knowing that at some point it will shift into the next, we find peace.
The science of gratitude: 3 aspects of expressing thankfulness
Gratitude can be divided into three categories:
- Express gratitude for the people who have made your life better, and express it directly to them.
- Express your gratitude out loud. There is so much power to be found when we speak things out loud.
- Adopt new behaviors as a result of interacting with those who have helped you in your life and along your journey.
No one gets anywhere alone in life. We all need somebody, not something, to get us through the tough times. We all need somebody to remind us to take up space, to remind us that we deserve to be heard, seen, appreciated, and applauded. Find out who those people are in your life and tell them the impact they have made.
Conclusion: Be grateful everyday
Remember to love yourself unapologetically. Teach your kids the practice of daily gratitude; they’re never too young or old to be taught the practice of giving thanks for all things small and big. Dig deeper into what you are grateful for, not just the surface-level things like your house and wealth. Be as specific as possible while expressing your gratitude.
