It’s almost that time of year to go around the table say what we’re thankful for at Thanksgiving dinner. For some, it’s an easy task. For others, it can be dreadful. Studies actually show practicing gratefulness can have many positive benefits to your life, including getting better sleep, having greater mental clarity, and feeling happier.
So why just limit this practice to once a year? Try implementing gratefulness into your everyday routine with these tips and tricks.
1. Start a gratefulness group chat
Sounds silly, but it works. Start a group chat with your closest friends or family that is dedicated to listing what you are grateful for each day. Once a day, each of you can list one or as many things you are grateful for that day. This will help keep each other accountable and also a fun way to learn more about each other.
2. Keep a gratitude journal
This one is just for you. Write down things you are grateful for as a reminder of the good things in your life. Whether it’s simply a list or a full page of your thoughts, journaling is such a powerful exercise.
3. Practice meditation
Meditation can be done anytime and anywhere that is best for you. Instead of trying to clear your mind like normal meditation, try reflecting on what brings you joy, peace, comfort, etc. Explore 3 Gratitude Meditations To Bring Your Happiness Harmony and Success.
4. Create visual reminders
Visual reminders are a great way to not only forget about things, but they are also easier to interpret and connect with. Keep a photo of your family on your desk at work or keep a note from a loved one on your bathroom mirror. These little reminders can help us to take a moment during our busy day to reflect on what means most to us.
5. Write a note to someone you appreciate
Take 5 minutes out of your busy schedule to write someone a note of appreciation. Are you grateful that they listened to you when you needed to vent? Or that they helped you move recently? Send a note of thanks to them. A handwritten note goes a long way.
6. Take up volunteering
Find a cause you are passionate about and set aside time to help volunteer. Not only will you learn to appreciate all that you have, but by helping others in need, you will begin to see what really matters in life.
7. Enjoy nature’s beauty
Take a different path than you normally take when walking your dog. Find a new hiking spot. Adventure around the national parks. Whatever your preferred method of getting outdoors looks like, make it a point to really soak it all in. Take the time to notice some of things you wouldn’t normally notice in your busy day to day life. There is so much to explore in this world and it will be sure to make you feel more grounded.
8. Spend time with loved ones
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but often times we forget how much value comes with being surrounded by our loved ones. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and where you can be your authentic self around.
9. Create affirmations
One of the simplest ways to practice gratitude is affirmations. An affirmation is a way to start and end your day with a positive note. Here are are 45 Gratitude Affirmations for a Daily Dose of Thankfulness.
10. Surround yourself with resources
Learn more about how to practice gratitude with podcasts and books. Engaging in these resources will help to keep it top of mind and give you even more advice on how to implement in your daily life.