Who doesn't want a life that isn't characterized by deep joy and fulfillment? I think all of us do. Have you considered just how vital gratitude is in that process?
For the next seven days, we've decided to send out a series of posts -- each one focusing on an important principle related to this core discipline of gratitude. Hopefully, this will allow you to reflect on and recommit yourself to this important practice.
When is the last time you took a moment to reflect on all the good in your life? If you can't remember, you're not alone.
Between jam-packed schedules, caring for others, and the never-ending daily list of chores, we tend to forget to create time to take a breather. Unlike other beneficial health practices, cultivating a gratitude practice can be done in very little time with no costly devices, memberships, or equipment.
Gratitude is a strong and deeply-rooted emotion of appreciation. The positive feeling of gratitude can inspire us to show appreciation, which will, in turn, make others more likely to help us again in the future. This is perhaps why today we feel the most grateful when we give or receive an act of kindness.
According to psychology research, gratitude is "a social emotion that signals our recognition of the things others have done for us."
Another definition provided by The Harvard Medical School, refers to gratitude as "a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives … As a result, gratitude also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals–whether to other people, nature, or a higher power."
So if it's been a while since you've evaluated the good in your life, a simple way to start is to think of three things that have gone well for you and identify the cause. Go a step further by imagining what your life would be like if these positive events had not occurred.
Hope this helps,
Bill
Going Beyond Words to Define Gratitude
