CULTIVATING AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

In September of last year, I heard about a woman who fell into the gap between a train and a platform somewhere in London and lost her right arm and leg. After scaling Kilimanjaro a month earlier. This incident made me reflect on how unpredictable life can be; one moment you have your life planned, and the next, something completely unexpected happens.

This made me reflect on how grateful I am to have ended last year unscathed and in peace. Despite some things not going according to plan, I still ended the year strong.

Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can have a transformative impact on your life. By focusing on the things you are thankful for, you can cultivate a sense of positivity and happiness. This can help you navigate even the most difficult challenges.

How to Cultivate and Attitude of Gratitude

Here are 4 ways to cultivate an attitude of gratitude:

Appreciate the Little Things

Our needs as humans are insatiable. We often overlook the little things that sustain us daily, such as having meals, spending time with loved ones, enjoying our favourite shows, receiving help from kind individuals when we need it most, arriving home safely, receiving gifts from friends, and the list goes on. If we take the time to reflect on these daily occurrences, we will have ample reason to be grateful. This is a great place to start.

Focus on Being Grateful for the Good in Your Life and Avoid Toxic Envy Towards Others

It’s easy to become so fixated on other people’s lives that we lose sight of ours, and this often results in envy and unfavourable comparisons, where we feel we deserve what they have out of entitlement. Instead of this, having a positive outlook is crucial. While it’s okay to desire others’ success, we shouldn’t let it consume us.

Recognising and being thankful for what you have is the first step toward cultivating a grateful attitude. Make it a priority to focus on your achievements this year and be grateful. No matter how little, it counts. Celebrate people’s wins with them, and be kind.

Reflect on Past Experiences and Achievements With an Attitude of Gratitude

A few years ago, I felt discouraged because I felt I hadn’t accomplished much in life. But after taking a step back and reflecting on my past experiences, I realised I had achieved much more than I initially thought.

This is a common experience, but if we take the time to reflect with gratitude in our hearts, we will see that we’ve had a great life, not just in terms of accomplishments, but also in the life experiences, relationships, and opportunities that have come our way. I now express gratitude for my past, and it gives me a sense of fulfilment every time I do. Take time to reflect on your past and show gratitude for it.

Slow Down, Breathe and Be Present

By taking charge of the present moment, you choose a grateful and positive attitude towards it. We often get so caught up in the rat race that we forget to stop and be present and notice the things money cannot buy- life, the air we breathe, good health, a sound mind, the beautiful skies, and the sounds of birds chirping. Because before you know it you are old and grey, and then you realise you never really lived. Being present helps you appreciate life more. Waking up to each new day is a blessing often taken for granted, especially in these uncertain times. Be grateful for it.

The Gratitude Challenge: 30 Days of Thankfulness

Embrace the 30-day gratitude challenge!
I’ve been using a gratitude app on my phone for the past three years, and I list what I’m grateful for almost every night. When I go back through my entries, I’m always astounded by the small details that meant so much on that particular day.

It’s been a fantastic journey. Give it a try for 30 days, and cultivate an attitude of gratitude; you’ll be surprised at how much lighter your heart will feel.

Wishing you a gratitude-filled year!!!