Gratitude turns what we have into enough.
Ingratitude, defined as a discernible lack of gratitude, can happen for many reasons.
As an emotion, gratitude is so powerful because it generates positivity that both reaches inward and extends outward. For some, the expression and feeling of gratitude come easy. However, for others, the act of practicing gratitude can be a little more difficult. This is because we're all wired differently due to genetics, brain structure, and personality traits. For example, envy, materialism, narcissism, and cynicism can act as barriers to gratitude.
One of the greatest thieves of thankfulness is dwelling on what we do not have. It's a great challenge to be both grateful and envious or materialistic at the same time. Have you ever felt both at the same time?
Feelings of entitlement is also a powerful inhibitor of gratitude. For example, narcissistic individuals may not even notice that a gift has occurred because they believe they are entitled to the benefit.
However, there is good news. No matter where you land on the spectrum of gratitude, there are exercises you can do to increase your level of gratefulness. In fact, neuroscience research has even shown a gratitude practice can change your brain activity.
One of the most profound and powerful ways to deepen your gratitude is through written words. Gratitude journaling only takes a few minutes a day, but it can give you a lasting mood boost that can take you from feeling "okay" to feeling "great" on a more regular basis.
Regularly journaling about the good things in your life can help prepare and strengthen you to deal with the rough patches when they pop up. All you have to do is spend a few minutes each day writing down (or typing) the things you are grateful for.
To learn more about the amazing benefits of writing, check out hits article: https://positivepsychology.com/writing-therapy/
Additionally, here are some writing prompts to help you start your gratitude journal:
List five small ways that you can share your gratitude today.
Write about a person in your life that you're especially grateful for and why.
What are you grateful for about the city or town you live in?
Write about the music you're thankful to be able to listen to and why.
Write a letter to someone who has positively impacted your life, however big or small.
Hope this helps,
Bill
