In a world that is constantly on the lookout for the next big thing it’s easy to miss the simple pleasures right in our face. What if I told that spending 15 minutes each day reflecting on what you are grateful for can transform your life? This isn’t a fluffy idea. It’s backed up by science and proven to work by countless people who have harnessed the power of gratitude.
When was the last moment you took to appreciate all that is good in your life. We are often so focused on what we lack that we forget to appreciate what is already there. But gratitude isn’t just about feeling better; it can rewire the brain to be more positive. According to Ernesto Lira de la Rosa a licensed clinical psychology, “Gratitude helps us lower stress and anxiety, and connect more deeply with others and ourselves.” This is not just a holiday practice, but a year-round one that can yield benefits for life.
Science is clear: gratitude boosts dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that are responsible for happiness and pleasure. Regular gratitude can improve sleep and heart health. Mike Laauwe, founder of PositiveThinkingMind.com, notes that expressing gratitude creates new neural pathways, making your brain more attuned to positivity over time. This shift leads to improved self-care, from eating healthy to exercising regularly.
How do you begin? Start a gratitude journal. Spend a few moments each day writing down the things you are grateful for, whether it is a supportive friend or a roof above your head. Verbal affirmations are a great way to reinforce your gratitude. By saying out loud what you’re thankful for, it will help the feeling sink in. Take a mindful walk and take in the details around you.
Laura Haver, author of the book Gratitude: A Powerful Transformational Tool, has experienced gratitude’s transformative powers first-hand. She plays “Gratitude detectives” with her children, finding creative things each night to be grateful for. She shares, “We’ve laughed about gratefulness for clean linens, water bottles, or even birds.” This practice not only strengthened family bonds, but also taught her kids to view the world with a lens of gratitude.
For Lira de la Rosa, gratitude is a grounding force. “Gratitude helps me stay connected with my purpose and privileges, despite daily stress,” he says. This attitude allows him to be more present in his work and personal relationships.
Why wait? Gratitude is accessible, free, and fast. Haver says, “Why don’t you try it and see how it can change your life?” Start now and watch gratitude transform your outlook and your whole approach to life.
