Happy Endeavors

a how to guide
Get Started

Gratefulness

Gratefulness is an appreciation for something received - physical or non-tangible. Read on to find out how you can become a more grateful person.

Published on: August 30, 2021
Topics included: appreciative | gratitude | kindness | thoughful
family at christmas

How to Be Grateful

Gratefulness is an appreciation for something received either physically or non-tangible. Here are some activities that can lead to gratefulness.

 

  1. Observe.
    Start paying attention to little things. Once you start to marvel at what you see, hear, smell, taste and/or touch, you are on your way.
  2. Meditate.
    Pay close attention to your thougths, emotions or sensations of the present moment.
  3. Journal.
    Write down what you are feeling grateful for. It can be one word on a post-it, one sentence or one paragraph.
  4. Pray.
    Talk to a spiritial being about what you are thankful for.
  5. Volunteer.
    Helping others less fortunate than you are, can make you appreciate your situation.
  6. Share.
    Give a toast before dinner, write a thank-you note, or call someone. Tell them why you appreciate them and what they have done for you.

Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.

Voltaire

French Enlightenment Writer and Historian

man praying outside

Benefits to Being Grateful

Health

  • Reduces anxiety/stress
  • Improves immunity
  • Enhances sleep quality

Mental

  • Increases empathy
  • Boosts self-esteem
  • Raises optimism

Social

  • Improves relationships
  • Makes you more outgoing
  • Relishes good times

You may also like

Give Positive Reviews

Give Positive Reviews

When you do criticize, give a suggestion of how to improve along with the opportunity to do so.

Be the Best Friend You Can

Be the Best Friend You Can

Best friends has a sixth sense of when to listen. When to give advice. When to mirror outrage. When to give a hug. When to tell you to stop obsessing already!

Nurturing Relationships

Nurturing Relationships

Take time to nurture relationships by being supportive and affectionate. Substitute listening and encouraging for nagging and criticising. Try adding a 6s hug to a loved one every day. Expect nothing in return. Watch how these nurturing behaviors will reflect back on you leaving you with a feeling of contentment.