3 ways I practice gratitude

When someone asks me how I stay positive or motivated, this is the first thing that pops into my mind. 

Gratitude plays a huge role in my practice of positivity and is an essential part of my life. 

Learning to be grateful for everything around you is easier said than done, even though the benefits are endless!

If you ask anyone about gratitude, their face lights up and it evokes positive emotions. 

We think of those who helped us along the way and for things we take for granted like our homes, cars, careers and family. 

We even give thanks for simple things such as sunshine, rainbows or children's giggles.

I like to keep a gratitude journal where I write down 4 things I’m grateful for every day. 

Here are 4 ways I practice gratitude. 

 

1. I wake up and start the day with gratitude.

Each day is a gift...nurture it with gratitude and enthusiasm.

 Every day when I wake up, the first thing I do is write down 3 things that I'm grateful for. When I finish writing, I sit and just breathe for a few moments while reflecting on the things that happened yesterday and the people who helped make my life better.

2. I notice what is working in my life, big and small.

I have a habit of noticing what is working in my life and writing it down, and this habit is one that I plan to keep. 

The benefits of this habit are great and a pretty interesting thing happens when you pay attention to the process instead of how it feels.

3. I talk to others about what I appreciate.

Like a lot of people, I like to talk about what I enjoy doing.

What makes you happy? What puts a smile on your face? Is it chocolate? The beach? Music? I ask my friends and family about what makes them happy to understand what makes them feel fulfilled. I recommend you do the same.

I believe that practicing gratitude is an essential part of enjoying a healthy and fulfilling life. 

The three suggestions above are great ways to get started, but you may find that it takes some time to recreate the feeling of gratitude.

In fact, the most important thing is to just get out there and try—you never know what you will come up with until you start actually trying and experimenting for yourself.