Gratitude is really important in life. It is just an expression of being grateful for the good things in life. When we are busy or stressing out we tend to forget to be thankful. However when we sit down and take the time to appreciate what we have we are so much better off, so much happier and so much healthier.
It is so sunny outside and I am really grateful when I wake up in the morning. In my head I keep reminding myself how fortunate I am to have a bed and shelter. Not everyone has these things. Feeling thankful for these simple comforts makes me start my day with a positive attitude.
Being grateful can change how we see the world. Instead of always wanting more, we learn to be happy with what we have. Such as when I used to wish that I had a larger house. Then I realized how nice my small apartment is because it is small and cozy and easy to clean. So I'm greatfull for it now instead of wishing for something different.
Gratitude also helps us in tough times. However, when things turn sour, it is very easy to find the bad. But if we try to find something to be grateful for then we will feel somewhat better.
Showing gratitude can make our relationships stronger too. It's a great feeling when we let a person know that we appreciate him. It even makes us realize the things people do for us. I make sure I give my partner some sort of thanks everyday, even if its just for something little. This has made our relationship happier and closer.
However, appreciation is not looking past the problems or acting as though everything is wonderful. It's okay to feel sad or angry sometimes. But finding things to be thankful for can help balance out negative feelings. Kind of like forcing ourselves to believe that there are good things in life, as if life is trying to beat the crap out of us.
Practicing gratitude takes effort. It's not always easy to feel thankful, especially when we're having a bad day. But like any habit, it gets easier with practice. Some people write in a gratitude journal every night. Others just do it for 3 minutes in the morning and say "thank you" out loud for 3 things. I like having some time at the end of the day just to sit in silence and think about how blessed I am.
The best part about it is that it is free and anyone can do it, that is gratitude. It doesn't take a genius or a lot of money to be appreciative. It's really just paying attention to the positive aspects of your life, no matter how big or small they are. Could be something as simple as a good meal, or a random person complimenting you, even a sunset.
Gratitude helps us live fuller, happier lives. It makes us realize the good things in life. It helps us connect with others. And it reminds us that even on those days that seem really bad, there is always something to be greatful for.
This is my entry for day 5 of the #septemberinleo prompt. I'm inviting you to join.
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