As Thanksgiving approaches, thoughts turn to gratitude. For some, it’s the once-a-year holiday ritual around the dinner table as each person proclaims what they’re most thankful for. Family. Health. My job. This meal.
Cultivating an attitude of gratitude throughout the year, however, is nothing short of transformative. That’s because of the universal law that states: What you focus on expands. In other words, what you appreciate appreciates. And, where attention goes, energy flows.
Here are three ways to demonstrate the power of gratitude.
1) Feeling fearful? Who isn’t these days? The good news is that fear and gratitude cannot coexist. The next time you’re worrying about money, your business or your children, stop and take a moment to count your blessings. One of the best ways to get a good night’s sleep is to write in a gratitude journal before bedtime.
2) Dealing with challenging relationships? It might be your boss, client, spouse or teenager. Refrain from criticism (what you think, as well as what you say) for one week. Instead, focus on the qualities you most appreciate about that person–even if it’s just that they teach you to be more patient. You’ll begin to notice that the energy will shift and the relationship will be more positive and productive.
3) Turbocharge your goals. As you begin to plan for the New Year and list your resolutions, be thankful for what is and what will be in anticipation of your success.
For more inspiration, check out my friend Vanessa Lowry’s “Days of Gratitude” blog.