The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness. It is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives. Gratitude helps people to appreciate what they have instead of always reaching for something new in the hopes it will make them happier. Below are some ways to cultivate gratitude;
1. Write a thank-you note. Make a habit of sending at least one gratitude letter or email a month. It could be to someone who has had a positive influence on your life.
2. Thank someone mentally. If you don’t feel like writing a thank-you note, you can think of someone who has done something nice for you and mentally thank the individual.
3. Count your blessings. Pick a time every week to sit down and write about your blessings – reflecting on what went right or what you are grateful for. Never forget, no matter how difficult your life’s journey, you can always count your blessings – past, present, and future!
4. Pray. Praying is an important tool to cultivate gratitude. There is no way you won’t have an attitude of gratitude and praise if you pray always. You will realize there is plenty to praise God for – His forgiveness, healing, redemption, loving-kindness, tender mercies, providence, righteousness, justice, grace and patience.
5. Meditate. Apart from mindfulness meditation helping you to focus on a word or phrase (such as “peace”), it also assists in focusing on what you’re grateful for.
Recently, I explain why we should be happy and thankful.
I also shared a very inspiring song – Thankful!
Do have a great day ahead.
Blessings!
Credit (Cultivating gratitude): LASB, Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School
