It seems like this is one of the most popular catch phrases being used right now. But, actually it is something so much more!

So, what exactly is gratitude? According to Webster’s Dictionary, gratitude is “The state of being grateful; warm and friendly feeling toward a benefactor; kindness awakened by a favor received; thankfulness”.

Demonstrating and experiencing an act of gratitude is an important key to healthy living. I have to admit that having an attitude of gratitude is not always simple. You have to practice it despite the circumstances that you are in or what is going on in your environment. Gratitude comes from the heart!

Think about all the things that you are grateful in your life. It can be looking at nature, being thankful for a positive mind and healthy body; taking a walk in the park, or loving glances at your loved ones. Once you recall your moments of gratitude, you will be amazed at how many blessings you have in your life!When you do this on a day that is particularly trying, it actually has the power to change the course of your entire day!

Journaling is a great tool to use to record all of your gratitude moments. You can review them at any time. Sometimes, looking back over the course of the day can bring a great awareness of how it started and how it finished.

Life presents numerous challenges, ups and downs. Either, we are constantly living with a challenge, getting past a challenge or starting a challenge.  Our character and strength are constantly being tested. However, take hold of these opportunities as chances to grow!

No matter how bad things get in our lives, there is always a reason to be grateful. By focusing on our purpose and blessings, we are able to put the negativity in its place.  When the negative becomes our sole focus, we become self-consumed and overtaken by our problems.

By focusing on what is good and right in our life, the bad things recede and become smaller!

Here is an affirmation of gratitude. Recite and meditate on a daily basis.

Be Thankful

• Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire, If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
• Be thankful when you don’t know something. For it gives you the opportunity to learn.
• Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow.
• Be thankful for your limitations. Because they give you opportunities for improvement.
• Be thankful for each new challenge. Because it will build your strength and character.
• Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.
• Be thankful when you’re tired and weary. Because it means you’ve made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.

“Find a way to be thankful for your troubles and they can become your blessings.”

    ~ Author Unknown ~

Make a daily gratitude list…

Today….

• I am grateful to God for a healthy mind, body & spirit
• Loving family
• Supportive friends
• Great career
• New opportunities
• Grateful for sunshine
• Plants & flowers are about to bloom

So, what is your Gratitude list for the day?

I’d love to hear how gratitude has shifted from a negative to a positive day for you? Share with me below.