While gratitude is something we often reflect on in November, it is a great habit to practice all year long! Being grateful and helping others can have a positive impact on well-being, as both may increase feelings of happiness and reduce stress and negative emotions. After a difficult 2020, it is even more important to express gratitude. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude with the help of these tips!
Make gratitude a daily habit. Every day, write down three things you are grateful for and one thing that you’ll do for someone else. Making this a daily habit yields great results!
Mind your manners. “Please” and “thank you” can go a long way when interacting with others. It demonstrates respect and appreciation.
Write a note. If there is someone in your life that has had a significant positive impact on you, tell them in a handwritten note. It will make them feel good, and you’ll feel good sending it.
Keep a gratitude journal. Whether handwritten or digital, keeping a journal of all of the positives in your life can help foster a strong sense of gratitude.
Give to those in need. Volunteer at a soup kitchen, donate food, or send care packages to hospital patients. You’ll improve someone else’s day and your own!
Take turns sharing what you’re thankful for. While waiting for dinner or sitting down to eat, go around the table and have everyone share three things they are thankful for. Make it even more interesting by setting a “no repeat” rule to get everyone really thinking.
Share favorite memories from previous holidays. Talking about years past is a great way to bond with family and friends.
Send “throwback” pictures to your family members or friends from previous Thanksgivings. It can help stimulate happy memories and encourage people to catch up with one another.
Write notes of gratitude to the people you’d normally spend Thanksgiving with and send through the mail or email. Showing your appreciation for others can boost the mood of others as well as your own!
From all of us at Health Advocate, we wish you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving!
