The noun, Gratitude is defined as [the state of being grateful; thankfulness] 1
To me “Gratitude” is so much more – it is an emotion, a habit and perhaps you could say a way of life. I started practicing Gratitude when I became interested in Positive Psychology. I started to focus on the positive aspects of my life, and gradually the negative aspects faded away.
I am NOT saying this was easy – trying to see any positive when you are emotionally defeated is not an easy thing to do. Whenever I had a negative experience, I consciously had to think of ONE positive thing about it. And gradually, over the years, I began to get better at noticing the positive side of life and appreciating the small things. I am not sure when I stopped focusing on the negative – I gradually just felt more optimistic about my life and the world. Life is SO much better when you focus on the positive.
I do believe that when people think the world is “all bad” and have a “negative view” of the world, they only notice the negative. Seeing only the negative validates their original opinion, and the cycle continues. Practicing gratitude stops the cycle. More positive thoughts, lead to more positive thoughts which is a much better cycle!.
Practicing Gratitude has other benefits which have been proven in numerous studies completed by Psychologists. These benefits include improving mental health, becoming more optimistic, and having a greater sense of well-being (which leads to lower stress and depression).2 I found an article posted by Berkley called “How Gratitude Changes You and your Brain” (link below and on the Facebook page). It is a quick read but does a good job of explaining the benefits of Gratitude.
In our materialistic culture, where many people believe “things” make you happy, it is refreshing to know that people are starting to wake up and show appreciation for what they have in their lives.
Remember: It is not joy that make you grateful – it is gratitude that makes you joyful!
Wishing you JOY always!
With loving gratitude,
Susan
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1Merriam-webster Dictionary
2Psychology Today
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