“The single greatest thing you can do to change your life today would be to start being grateful for what you have right now.” ~ Oprah Winfrey

As we enter the time of Thanksgiving in America, it reminds us to be thankful for everything we have. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can be tough, especially when facing challenges. However, gratitude is an ongoing practice that can improve our lives. 

“Being thankful is not always experienced as a natural state of existence, we must work at it, akin to a type of strength training for the heart.” ~ Larissa Gomez

My life was a mess during the summer of 2016. Then, during an angelic reading, I received a suggestion from my angels to start a gratitude journal. Soon after, I got into it and dedicated an entire page to “Today I am grateful for.” It became my diary. 

At first, during challenging times, I skipped dates without writing. But I encouraged myself at least to squeeze words of appreciation out of me and kept writing. “I’m grateful for a sunny day, walking outside, honoring my feelings, talking to a friend, eating a nourishing breakfast, spending quality time with cats, etc.” 

Writing in my gratitude journal is one of my daily, non-negotiable practices. 

There is always something to be grateful for, no matter what outside circumstances or hardships we face. 

I invite you to challenge yourself to open your heart to blessings in your daily life and write them down.

There is always something to be grateful for

Benefits of Gratitude

Gratitude raises a lower vibration to a higher one. The appreciation practice reminds us to focus on positivity and stay present. As a result, we feel more abundant, happier, and productive, with a desire to move forward. It also shifts our mindset, lowers stress, and improves sleep. 

The benefits list is long—many studies have been made on gratitude, for example, how our emotions affect our health by Gregg Braden.

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” ~ Melody Beattie

How to Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude? 

1. Make an effort to notice the goodness in yourself, others, your day, and your activities. 
2. Keep a gratitude journal. Write at least three things you are thankful for in your daily life.
3. Tell people you appreciate how much you value them. 
4. Do something kind to other people. For example, help a friend or a family member in need. Volunteer.
5. Take a walk outside and notice the beauty around you. Keep your phone in your pocket or leave it at home.
6. Pause before each meal or sip of water. Say “thank you” or create a special prayer.
7. Celebrate the small things. Give yourself credit. 

“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.” ~ Brene Brown

Thank YOU, dear reader, for being in my life. I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog posts and leave comments. Thank you for your loyalty, support, and kindness. I love you and look forward to being of service.