We live in a society where value and status
are placed on material things like cars, homes, and clothes and we all dream
about having more – more money, bigger homes, more cars – yet collectively so
many of us just never seem to be consistently happy. In fact, instead of
feeling deeply and truly grateful for what we do have, we feel envious of the
people who have more than us.
Being in constant competition with neighbors,
coworkers, or family members is exhausting. It causes us to lose
sight of the important things in life, such as children, relationships and
health. Placing a strong value on things causes us to feel unfulfilled
and creates an inner tension that drives us away from happiness.
Happiness isn’t defined by the amount of stuff we can collect.
Remember What You’re
Grateful For
If you had to list what’s good in your life,
right now, and you weren’t allowed to mention any material possessions, would
you have a hard time coming up with the list? Do you have a hard time just
being happy and grateful because you’re always longing for something bigger or
better?
We all have big dreams for ourselves, but we
can’t begin to work toward our goals until we accept who we are and where we’re
at right now. That acceptance begins with a sincere appreciation for the life
lesson’s of yesterday and the talents and skills we have today.
Sure, we all want a big house, nice furniture,
big-screen TVs, better paying jobs, luxury cars, gourmet food, fancy jewelry,
and designer clothes – but how can we appreciate the finer things in life if we
can’t be thankful for the simple things?
After all, a big-screen TV won’t matter if you
didn’t have your eyes to see and your ears to hear! Of course, desiring good
quality items isn’t wrong, but your focus should be on living and enjoying your
life, not things.
·
Expressing your
gratitude doesn’t have to be reserved for Thanksgiving dinner. Share with your
family why you’re grateful today and really listen to what your family says in
return.
·
Encourage your kids to
dig deep in their souls to find their gratitude. Kids need to learn how to take
their focus off of material items and onto influential people, positive
experiences, and quality of life.
Refocus Your Thoughts with a Gratitude Journal
A gratitude journal is simply a notebook where you write
down everything in life you’re thankful for. It doesn’t have to take more than
5 minutes in the early morning or before bed each night. The idea is to clear
your mind, reflect on what you have to be thankful for and see the
goodness in life.
Here are some tips to help you get started:
·
Buy or make yourself a
nice, attractive journal so you’ll take care of it and will look forward to
journaling everyday.
·
Reflect on anything
new that came your way: new friends, clients, or opportunities.
·
Don’t be shy about
repeating things from previous days; praising your good health and loving
family never tires.
·
Did a friend do
something nice for you today? Did you find a lost item? Did you handle a
difficult situation well? Gratitude isn’t reserved for really big things; you
can be grateful for the small things, too.
·
Periodically, go back
over your journal and read all that you’re grateful for. It’ll be a great
pick-me-up on especially difficult days.
The more you add to your journal, the more
you’ll teach your mind a new way of thinking. Your outlook on life will become
more positive and you’ll feel a deeper sense of connection with those around
you. And you’ll discover the sheer beauty that already exists in your life.
thepowerofhappy.com
