An Attitude of Gratitude
Copyright 2006, Paula Gregorowicz and The Paula G Company, All
Rights Reserved.
Anymore, it seems we all run hither and yon searching for the
right toys to buy and ways to attempt to hold ourselves to the
same standards as our foremothers who didn't work outside the
home. Oftentimes each week becomes something to get ready for,
survive, and finish much like a college entrance exam. Does this
sound at all familiar?
If it does, consider adding an attitude of gratitude to your
to-do list each day so the real joys of life don't just pass you
by. Taking one moment each day to practice gratitude can shift
your whole perspective. Even when everything around you seems to
be going wrong and Murphy's Law is in full swing, a practice of
gratitude will anchor you back to a more conscious place where
you can feel blessed for what you do have in your life instead
of stuck on the merry-go-round of daily crisis.
What do I mean by a practice of gratitude? It can be as large or
as small as you like. You might consider lighting a candle for a
few quiet moments of reflection at the beginning or end of the
day. Maybe, you tell one person that is important to you or has
helped you that you are thankful for their presence in your
life. Perhaps you send a note of appreciation or return an act
of kindness to someone who has helped you. Whatever you choose,
it is the mindset and conscious intention that counts.
The greatest part about expressing your gratitude to another
person is that it not only makes you feel better but can also
lift another person's spirit. We never know what hardships
someone might be carrying or even if they had a lousy day. A
kind word, smile, or even a random act of kindness can be very
powerful and have a huge impact on another person's life even if
we never know it.
Consider the following questions: - Who in my life do I really
care about? Have I told them that lately?
- Who are the everyday people I am really thankful for because
they make my world a better place (perhaps the doorman, coffee
server, your doctor, or paper carrier)?
- How do I show myself gratitude for just being me? Am I
practicing self-care and taking good care of the most precious
commodity I have - myself?
- What things am I glad I have in my life?
Once you answer these questions, make it a point to acknowledge
and share some gratitude with yourself and others and make it a
truly special day.