Attitude of Gratitude

Most of our success comes down to our unique perspectives of the world and how we see things. Always looking on the bright side and expressing thankfulness for what we do have makes an enormous difference in our personal fulfillment.   

So, how can you exercise a positive attitude and express gratitude in your daily life? Read on to learn more from the GermSanity team on how you can have an attitude of gratitude

Just Say “Yes”

To demonstrate an attitude of gratitude, just say “yes.” Sometimes showing a positive attitude begins with something as simple as saying “yes”. Demonstrate your openness to take on new challenges whether you are at home or at work—because once you do, you’ll naturally adopt a growth mindset that fuels your journey to self-progression and, ultimately, success.   

When people ask you to go somewhere or do something courageous, it’s because they believe you can do it, and you can.  Life is constantly pressing us with new chances to do incredible things before we think we are ready—but the truth is, there is never really a ‘perfect’ time for anything. Start before you are ready, because simply saying “yes” is the quickest way you can excel as a human being.

Start a Gratitude Journal

One of the best ways to develop an attitude of gratitude is by turning the page in your notebook and writing down what it is you are grateful for. Frequent journaling is proven to reduce stress, boost your mood, sharpen your memory and improve your general wellbeing, even if you take as little as 5 minutes per day to jot down the things you are grateful for that day.   

Keeping a journal is a very personal activity, allowing you to express your vulnerability and spend time connecting with your private thoughts and feelings. Be honest—this is your safe space; a place to record your triumphs and victories, but also a place to confess your struggles and fears without punishment or judgment. Expressing your feelings (even if it’s to yourself) and clearing your mind can also lead to a better night's rest.   

I am sure you know the feeling well—finally collapsing into bed after a stressful day with twenty-thousand thoughts hindering you from falling asleep. It can be extremely overwhelming, which is why many resort to gratitude journaling. Go ahead . . . write down those failed plans and dashed hopes and then reflect on what could have gone wrong but did not and write that down as well. These are the things you can be grateful for. Doing this activity right before bed renders a clear mind and a quality night’s sleep and helps generate a positive mindset. 

Gratitude Meditation

With the rise of holistic healthcare in America, many health professionals have sought secondary ways for their patients to seek internal happiness and wellbeing. Like journaling, several studies show that people tend to feel happier and less stress when practicing internal reflections such as counting blessings (the things you are grateful for). A gratitude meditation practice not only brings about increased levels of well-being, it also increases your levels of gratitude. Gratitude meditation is very easily implemented and can be practiced anywhere, even in the midst of a hectic work schedule. You can focus on a kind gesture bestowed upon you or your ability to see or hear or something intangible such as an important lesson learned through an unpleasant situation.   

A recent study of meditation gurus stated: “the purpose of meditation is to stop the mind rushing about in aimless stream of thoughts”. This explanation shows that gratitude meditation yields high results on the mind and body, with a powerful ability to clear the head of unwanted thoughts and promote internal tranquility, which we will expound upon in an upcoming post.   

Gratitude meditation is scientifically proven to actually re-wire the brain. When you experience an upsetting event in life, strong neural pathways are sent to your brain, making you feel afraid and, perhaps, under attack. Meditation promotes positive connectivity between your body and your neural pathways, weakening the connection between your body and fearful thoughts.

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It is evident: an attitude of gratitude is cultivated in diverse forms, helping us attract abundance, strengthen relationships, radiate positivity, and experience greater well-being which, in turn, results in an even greater sense of gratefulness each and every day. When we find gratitude, we find freedom, love, and a more abundant life.   

Don’t forget to check out our mind, body and soul collection to take your meditation sessions to even greater heights.