Making a Shift Towards Gratitude

In a period of time that for many is plagued with fear and uncertainty it is difficult to stay focused on gratitude.  Many of us may fear for our health or for those we support and feel a generalized instability. But is there a way to push that fear into a different direction? Is it really possible to shift our perspective on life?

I know even for myself looking at all the unknowns has definitely touched an anxiety cord for me. What will the world look like when this is all over? How do I keep those I love safe? The what if’s can be all consuming. But then I have to slow down and ask myself “what do I have control over?” and “what do I not have control over?”. This leads me to conclude: I have control over my own thoughts, actions, and emotions. Perhaps, this leads us also to the concept that you or I have the ability to change how we interact and respond to our world. In a world of fast paced thoughts, communication, and sometimes even faster actions, we have this time to make a shift.

So why gratitude? Is it really just a mumbo jumbo flowery word? Does it really make a difference? According to several studies over the years there just may be some benefits to focusing on gratitude. So, what do they say? Some studies indicate that being grateful for those little things in life can help us to be more patient. It can also help us to have better relationships. Particularly at this time when we may not get to see the people in our lives. Gratitude may also lead us to take better care for ourselves physically and emotionally. Are we getting enough exercise? Are we sleeping enough? Are we eating foods that support a healthy body? Or are we snacking on peanut butter cups and pizza?

Okay so maybe you, like I, have heard this all before. But have we ever done the work to shift our outlook? I can say for myself I haven’t done the “work” in the past. It is much easier to grumble about how we want things to be different than to actually make the changes. So, what is an easy concrete way to make a change? You can start by every night before bed identifying three good things that you are grateful for that day. This doesn’t take a ton of effort, but the positive benefits can be outstanding. Can you join me in making a shift?