A Practical Guide To Gratitude

………(so you can see and think differently)

In a stuck moment, it’s hard to see positive forces when obstacles are blaring and fears are looming. This is a good time to be grateful. Not grateful for what has us stuck, but appreciating what doesn’t. Gratitude helps us see our situation in a way that can lessen panic and open up our thinking to new solutions.

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Here are 9 ways to cultivate happiness

1. Notice your day-to-day world from a point of gratitude and be amazed at all the goodness we take for granted.

2. Keep a gratitude journal. All it requires is noting one or more things you are grateful for on a daily basis. No fancy notebook, no computer program required.

3. If you identify something or someone with a negative trait (the cold conference room), switch it in your mind to a positive trait (the conference room with a great view).

4. Gratitude requires humility, which the dictionary defines as being “modest and respectful.” Explore where it fits in your life.

5. Give at least one compliment daily, whether directly to a person or by sharing your appreciation of something (“I love how quiet it is in the morning, don’t you?”).

6. When you find yourself in a bad situation ask: What can I learn? When I look back on this, without emotion, what will I be grateful for?

7. Vow to not complain, criticise, or gossip for a week. If you slip, rally your willpower and keep going. Notice how much energy you were spending on negative thoughts.

8. Sound genuinely happy to hear from the people who call you on the phone. Whether they respond with surprise or delight, they’ll feel valued.

9. Join a cause that’s important to you. Donate money, time, or talent. By getting involved, you’ll better appreciate the organisation — and it will appreciate you more, too.