When you start to become used to performing at a high level, you begin to overlook the small things in life that make it worth living. You end up failing to appreciate the blessings in your life, and you forget to soak up the precious moments with those you love. Practicing gratitude can not only help you feel more grounded and peaceful, but it can also improve your ability to share your love with others. Here are some simple gratitude exercises that can make you feel happier.
Exercise #1 Identify Three Things You Appreciate
Take a moment to identify three things in your life that you appreciate and feel grateful for. These things can be based on the present moment, in the past, or in the future. While no category or thing is too big or small, it is essential that you are specific in your gratitude.
Exercise #2 Identify Three Things You Take for Granted
We all take things for granted in our lives. Take some time to reflect on these things and discover which of these things you value the most. This can be anything. You may take for granted that you are in good physical health, or that you have a good paying job.
Exercise #3 Identify Three Things you Appreciate About Yourself
With our constant need to compare ourselves to others, this one can be a challenge. Take some time to think about the things that you appreciate about yourself. It could involve your personality, your daily actions, your qualities, or anything else that is directly related to yourself.
Exercise #4 Identify Three Things You Feel Grateful For Right Now
To cultivate gratitude, it is essential to be in the here-and-now. Take the time to think about what you can appreciate about your current situation. Think about the time you're taking for your health, think about the environment, think about anything that relates to the present moment.
Exercise #5 Identify Three People Who are Significant in Your Life
Think about all the people you have had in your life. These can be coaches, teachers, mentors, family members, friends. Call those people to mind and take the time to think about how they made a difference in your life.
Exercise #6 Create Thank You Notes
Create thank you notes for those three individuals that made an impact on our lives. You don't have to send them, just the act of writing down your gratitude will be beneficial.
Practicing these six exercises regularly will help you to cultivate gratitude and lead you to a healthier and happier life.