WHAT IS GRATITUDE AND HOW DOES IT HELP US?

I often see that many people have the upside-down perspective when it comes to the relationship between gratitude and happiness. Happiness does not beget gratitude. Instead showcasing appreciation alleviates the feeling of joy and contentment, which is the direct pathway to ultimate abundance.

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.”

Eckhart Tolle

I often see that many people have the upside-down perspective when it comes to the relationship between gratitude and happiness. Happiness does not beget gratitude. Instead showcasing appreciation alleviates the feeling of joy and contentment, which is the direct pathway to ultimate abundance.

Moreover, gratitude is not merely an action, or just saying thanks to people who have helped us or presented us with something. It is an emotion that radiates positivity and denotes a deep appreciation.

There are many things and people around us that warrant this deep appreciation: it could be as big as a huge promotion at work, or as simple as a well-made cup of coffee. But when we take these matters for granted and slip into thanklessness, it derives us of the positivity of the act. By doing so we block ourselves from receiving all the goods our heart desires. Truly, the state of appreciation is the key to kingdom of blessings.

Can you think of a time when you did not thank someone or were not thanked by someone for doing something? How did it make you feel? A bit deprived, or unpleasant even? This goes to show that gratitude as an emotion affects us on a neurological and psychological level, thereby giving us the power to choose how our day and life will turn out to be.

Try to cultivate this simple habit: Wake up and write down 10 things you are grateful for in your life. Repeat it everyday for 30 days, and see the results. It’s magical. You’ll notice how you let go of resistance and build a connection with your inner being. Your mind is open to guidance and sharper to observe smaller things that you’d otherwise pass over as ordinary facets of your life.

WHY DOES GRATITUDE WORK?

Gratitude works because it is a selfless act: when you thank someone who is having a bad day, watch the effects carefully. By doing that you will have an amazing day! Period! But ensure that your words or actions are meaningful, not baseless. Precisely, your words and actions should be aligned with your emotions. You do not expect anything in return, but the ripple effect that your small action causes ensures both you and the person you have reached out to feel lighter and happier. It’s a universal law: Give and Receive. Whatever you put out it comes back to you in multiple folds.

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 When was the last time you thanked someone even if they let you down? Did you do it to assuage their guilt or convey your appreciation despite a disappointment? Gratitude works during all times, not for others but to elevate you and your energy.

HOW DOES GRATITUDE HELP?

It cannot be denied that there is a direct relationship between gratitude and well-being. Selfless appreciation results in contentment, and contentment results into happiness. A happy person is bound to sleep better, attain more confidence to tackle tough situations, have healthy harmonious relationships and up mental strength.

“Adults who feel grateful have more energy, more optimism, more social connections and more happiness than those who do not, according to studies conducted over the past decade. They’re also less likely to be depressed, envious, greedy or alcoholics,” Melinda Beck, WSJ

Constantly living with an attitude of gratitude is a practice, which reaps some incredible results. Here are some ways that gratitude can help you develop: 

–         Stronger relationships

Expressing gratitude is an effective form of communication that strengthens relationships. An expression of appreciation between people forges a bond where each person is more willing to listen, forgive and communicate effectively.

–         Physical and mental well- being

The bubble of positivity that surrounds a more grateful individual makes him/her more agreeable and open, and less susceptible to giving in to negative emotions. They are faster to welcome suggestions and find solutions – this upward spiral alleviates stress and other negative emotions.

 Gratitude reduces levels of stress. It goes a long way in decreasing levels of stress hormones and anxiety. Any degree of appreciation helps promote healthier minds, and alongside that healthier bodies. 

–         More will power

Being thankful allows for a more accepting state of mind that is favorable to strengthen our resolve and stronger mental ability to dictate choices that work for us.

–         Increased happiness

Joy is the by-product of gratitude. A grateful individual is a happy individual. A happy heart is the magnet for more happiness, which transcends in our choices we make to live an abundantly happy life.

The optimism generated in making the right choices in life makes us the hub of positive creation. This is not only good for the individuals themselves, but also for anyone they come in contact with.

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