People think gratitude follows happiness. But, actually it’s the opposite – being thankful makes you happy. Here are three ways to become more grateful.
- Keep a gratitude journal. Every day, write down three things you are grateful for. Research shows the one small practice can make you feel more optimistic and better about your life.
- Write a thank you note. Once a month, send a handwritten card to someone who has not been properly thanked for their kindness. You’ll get a huge happiness boost, and so will the lucky recipient.
- Fill a gratitude jar. Every time you feel overcome with gratitude for something, jot it down on scrap piece of paper and put it in a jar. Empty the jar on New Year’s Eve, and relive all those wonderful moments.
Adulting is important, but you could spend your whole life on your to-do list. Do these three things, and keep on smiling.
- Take inventory. Get a piece of paper and write – yes, handwrite – a list of everything that makes you happy, from the little (like a popsicle on a hot summer day) to the large (like cuddling with your child, partner, pet).
- Be honest. What you love might be different or quirky, but what matter is that it makes you smile. So if you love collecting bugs, own it!
- Seek your happiness. Every day, make room for one thing off your list. Gaze at the night sky. Catch up with a friend. Plant a herb garden. These are the moments that make life sweet.
Feeling Stuck? Do something about it!
- Get rid of excess stuff. All that physical clutter in your house create mental clutter in your mind. Getting rid of the junk can free up the mental space you need to focus on bigger horizons.
- Let go of unhealthy relationships. Ask yourself this simple question: Is this relationship bringing me more grief than happiness? If the answer is yes, give yourself permission to lovingly let go.
- Make that change. Scared of taking that big leap – whether it’s switching jobs, moving to a new city, or having a baby? Typically, it’s the things we don’t do that we regret the most. So be bold and go for it!