Expressing gratitude on a regular basis has many health benefits and is a proven mood booster that leads to a happier life. It seems easy enough, but as we get caught up in a million other moments each day, being thankful often slips off our list of daily do’s. To ensure that doesn’t happen, here are ways to harness a grateful attitude and live a fuller, more positive life.
- Keep a Gratitude Journal: It doesn’t matter if you’re the next Hemingway or not, anyone can journal. Grab a notebook, your favorite pen and spend five minutes each day jotting down what or who you are thankful for. Or, go digital and start a list on your phone for an easy way to capture your happy in one place.
- Give Positive Customer Service Feedback: So often people take to customer service channels to angrily vent frustrations and negative experiences. Flip the switch and write a positive review for a company or person who deserves recognition. Perhaps you encountered an especially patient pharmacist at your local drug store or a flight attendant who went the extra mile – a simple gesture of gratitude goes a long way and makes others feel appreciated.
- Hand Write Thank You Notes: Ahh, a handwritten note. A meaningful form of communication that has faded out of practice, making it that much more special. A physically written note can serve as an unexpected way to show someone you care. Try ditching the digital DMs for a day and write thank you letters for people who have impacted your life in ways they may not even be aware. It’ll be cathartic for you and a heartwarming surprise for them.
- Track Compliments: A scorecard of people complimenting you sounds a bit conceited, right? Wrong. We accept the love we think we deserve, and you deserve it! In the spirit of getting intentional about kindness, track when people praise you for something good so that you may do it in return for others. It’s simple: when you receive praise – on anything, whether it’s what you’re wearing, your work or about your kids – make it your goal to dish out TWO compliments to other people. It’s paying it forward in the name of kindness.
- Thank Your Things: According to Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method, thanking your items for their service helps you express gratitude for the goods that once sparked joy. Sure, your battered old t-shirt isn’t going to physically feel the love, but this habit helps you to be grateful for what you have, and all you have had.