Practicing gratitude has so many incredible effects, from improving our mental health to strengthening relationships with people in our lives. Believe it or not but this can truly be an amazing game changer. Let’s explore some simple ways how you too can practice gratitude on a daily basis.
5 Simple Ways You Can Practice Gratitude In Your Everyday Life
Keep A Gratitude Journal
One of the best ways to practice gratitude is to write. Take time at the start of the end of the day to write down at least three that you are grateful for. For people who are not into journaling so much, this may be quite challenging at the beginning. However, once you do this on a daily basis, you will get the hang of it in no time and really enjoy it! Over time, you will then be able to go back and look at how things have changed over the months and years — through the lens of gratitude. Many studies have even suggested that this is truly one of the most effective ways to practice gratitude. So get journaling today!
Fill A Jar
Personally, this is one of our favorites! All you need is a small jar and some paper. Now, this next one can be done at the end of each week, simply write down something positive, a small thing you are thankful for, or if you want to acknowledge something. Fold up the note and place it in the jar. Even if you feel you are going through a rough time or don’t have something to be grateful for, it’s important to find at least one thing in your life. Once your gratitude jar is filled, time at the end of the year to reflect on all the good things you were grateful for.
Gratitude Text
This next one is pretty simple, as it doesn’t have to be too detailed. Think of someone who makes your life great, someone without whom your life would be less fun or warm or wonderful. It could be a family member, colleague, friend, or even the barista at your local coffee shop. Take a few minutes out of your day to send a short text telling them how you appreciate or thank them for something they may have done for you. It’s also important to tell them why you are expressing gratitude, they should know why you value them. This is a really special gesture which we can assure you they will appreciate.
Write Thank-You Notes
Did you know that when you express gratitude towards others, it can do a lot more than just improve your mood? Research has shown that thanking others for even the most minor things is excellent for your mental health and can help you have a more positive outlook on life. Furthermore, we often underestimate how good the recipients of a thank-you note actually feel when they receive it. Think about all the people in your life, specifically those who have helped you out or made a positive impact on your life. Really, it could be anyone, a waiter at the restaurant, your child’s teacher, or even your mother-in-law. Write them a thank-you note expressing how thankful you are for them. This is not a must but sending it off with a small gift will definitely brighten up their day.
Meditate
Studies have shown that meditation can positively change your brain chemistry, making you more compassionate toward others. In addition, it has been proven to help deal with stress. This is why so many experts recommend meditation. Simply, take 5 to 10 minutes out of your day and find a quiet space without distractions. This is a perfect way to clear your mind and truly focus on things that you are grateful for.