Do you remember your parents nagging about sending thank you cards after each birthday?
We were all taught how to be gracious growing up, and now that we’re men, it is time to focus on what being thankful truly means in more ways than one.
Exercising gratitude can lead to numerous health benefits, including better sleep, stronger immunity, a happier mental state and satisfaction in life
Scientifically speaking, exercising gratitude can lead to numerous health benefits, including better sleep, stronger immunity to illness, a happier mental state and satisfaction in life, according to UC Davis psychologist Robert Emmons.
In his book, “Thanks!: How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier,” moments of genuine thanks can improve your outlook on everything.
Are you ready to look at life with a glass-half-full perspective? Here are just a few ways to get started:
Open Your Eyes
We can say “thanks” when someone opens the door for us, and that is fantastic! However, you can always broaden your horizons by seeing even the simplest of things as a gift.
Consider journaling the things you are thankful for; maybe start with your family and friends, your job or even a pet. As the weeks go on, you will adjust your attention to smaller things that make your life pleasurable–string-less shoes, forks or perhaps dental floss.
Even the most abstract of items, like creativity and ingenuity count!
Get Pumped
Part of becoming more gracious is being excited for the change. However, jumping the gun and quickly realizing the daunting task of changing the way you live your life could be a buzzkill for some.
Plan ahead to keep a steady pace toward a better life
It is important to plan ahead to keep a steady pace toward a better life. Get a schedule going and continually update your gratitude journal. You’ll be able to stay optimistic longer without wearing yourself out.
Make It Enjoyable
Keeping track of gratitude moments in a journal may not be for everyone. If you find yourself becoming tired, try a more unique tactic.
For instance, for every gracious moment you have, write the name of a restaurant on a sticky note and put it in a box. At the end of the week, randomly take out a note, and treat yourself!
There are infinite ways to have fun while becoming more and more aware of things around you that make life better.
Talk It Up
Humans are social animals, and we find the most happiness among others. As you continue on your gratitude journey, you’ll notice the things that make you the most content may have something to do with those that surround you.
Consider expressing thanks to the people
that have impacted you the most.
To enhance your gratitude, consider expressing thanks to the people that have impacted you the most. Try writing letters or taking someone out to dinner to let them know how much they mean to you.
Whether you thank someone for making you smile, for bringing back bright, nostalgic memories, or for just being there when you needed them, you always have the opportunity to exercise gratitude to a friend.
Your journey for an optimistic lifestyle can start right now–enjoy life, be thankful and smile on.