How to Cultivate a Habit of Thankfulness
When you see people in your life who radiate positivity and gratitude, it’s easy to assume that they are that way naturally. However, the truth is that anyone who is truly committed to these traits knows that exemplifying them on a regular basis is a matter of practice. Just like any other habit, being thankful is one that you must intentionally build over time. As you progress it may become easier, but it takes effort. One thing is for sure though, having gratitude become a part of your daily habit is an effort most certainly worth extending. If you’ve been wanting to learn how to include more thankfulness in your day-to-day life, you’re in the right place. Stick with us for a few tangible ways to get started.
Document reasons to be thankful
A common phrase we love is, “The best tool for you is the one you’ll stick to.” If writing in a journal is your thing, great! Journaling is a very powerful mindfulness tool and it helps us organize our thoughts. However, if you’re not in a place yet where journaling feels right for you, find other ways to take regular notice of all the reasons you have for being thankful. This might look like keeping a running list in the notes on your phone, taking photos of things that you’re thankful for and putting them in a special album, or leaving yourself reminder notes on your bathroom mirror. This is a great resource in times when the world feels overwhelming or frightening. While we can’t always control what’s happening around us, we can always control the way we appreciate the good things in our lives. This doesn’t negate the severity of life’s challenges, but it does help us cope in healthier ways. For more tips related to that, check out our blog on Coping with Current Events. Whatever way works best for you, challenge yourself to add to, and reflect on, your list several times a week.
Practice kindness
Something cool about thankfulness is that it’s not only an inside job. Kindness is like the match that lights the candle of thankfulness. When you take the time to be intentional about spreading kindness, you’ll notice that the gratitude you receive often always multiplies your own. While it’s important to be kind without placing expectations on the reactions of others, the likelihood is high that if you’re spreading kindness you’ll receive kindness and thanks in return. Building gratitude among community is a powerful way to create a ripple effect of thankfulness that improves everyone’s lives, not just your own.
Don’t keep gratitude to yourself
Feeling thankful for someone or something? Make it known! As we mentioned above, gratitude is contagious, and sharing it is a beautiful way to give love and recognition to others. Let the people in your life know when you are feeling thankful for them. Not only will it make them feel loved and appreciated, it will amplify those feelings within yourself when you take the time to share them. It also may remind you how important it is to conduct yourself in ways that make others thankful for you! Reciprocity is a beautiful thing and it’s important to have relationships with people who are as thankful for you as you are for them. In friendships and relationships like this, feeling safe and supported is much easier when you know that love and thankfulness exist in abundance.
Be generous with your time and energy
The secret to thankfulness is simple. When you give, thankfulness grows. The key is to make sure that you’re giving from a place of integrity and in ways that don’t cross your boundaries. Helping a friend, spending time with loved ones, and making yourself present for the moments that matter can greatly contribute to your reasons to be thankful and grateful at all times. When you give from a place of expectation or when you don’t have much to give, you may feel resentful or irritated. That’s a great indicator that you might need some time to pour into yourself for a little while and that’s ok! Once you’ve taken a little time to yourself and returned to some of your other thankfulness skills like journaling, being kind in the small moments, and simply showing love, you’ll find yourself reenergized to give more time and energy to those around you.
If you’re struggling with finding the balance, you’re not alone! Professional support through online counseling is a great way to address the challenge and improve your wellness and thankfulness habits. If you’re ready to seek support, we’re here for you at Genesis Counseling of South Tampa. Contact us today to book an appointment!
