Benefits of Being Grateful
Having just celebrated Thanksgiving in Canada, many of have begun reflecting on what we are most thankful for in our lives. While reflecting on what we are thankful for is important, it is also vital to keep in mind that showing gratitude and expressing thanks to those around you is a habit that should be practiced all year round. There are many physical and mental benefits of gratitude. The best part is that it is easy to do, doesn’t cost a penny, and its impact is priceless. Here are just a few reasons why you should be grateful not just during the holiday season, but also throughout the year.
Elevates Happiness
Being grateful makes us feel good. Imagine a time when someone thanked you for something you did and how it made you feel. I imagine you were left feeling satisfied both emotionally and physically. Even better, regularly acknowledging what you are grateful for helps you to focus on the positive aspects of yourself and your life. Being grateful not only makes you feel better, but will boost the moods of those around you as well. And, who doesn’t need a little more happiness in their life?
Increases Self-Esteem
Gratitude helps make you more aware of the amazing things people in your life do for you. The more often you practice gratitude, the more likely you are to feel loved and appreciated. Both of these elevate how you feel about yourself, which, in return, boosts your self-esteem.
Helps Relationships
It’s no surprise that being grateful aids in improving the relationships you share with others. Acknowledging the good deeds that others do for you and for those around you can make both parties feel good. Gratitude also helps improve communication, which helps strengthen relationships with friends, family, co-workers and the many other people we come into contact with on a daily basis.
Gratitude Encourages More Gratitude
Treat others how you would like to be treated. The kinder you are to others and the more often you express gratitude, the more likely you are to encourage others to do the same. It is also likely that as you practice gratitude in your every day life, it will become a habit. Soon you will be spreading the love without even thinking about it.
Expressing gratitude doesn’t take much time and effort. It does, however, take some reflection. You want to ensure that you are showing people in your life that you are thankful for the things that they do. One easy step to increasing gratitude in your life is to say “thank you” more often. Thanking those you might otherwise overlook enhances your relationships and opens you up to others. Another tip is to keep a gratitude journal. Doing this helps promote happiness and also allows you to keep track of all that you are thankful for. You might even surprise yourself with how full the pages become! Lastly, make sure to pay it forward. Random acts of kindness or supporting a cause you believe in will help you further spread gratitude into the world.
These are just a few benefits of gratitude. How do you find ways to express gratitude in your life? Make sure that you take some extra time this weekend – and the ones that follow – to do something for someone else. Not only will it make someone’s day brighter, but it will also add some extra light to yours as well.