Gratitude

Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

Most of us go through life constantly asking what the universe can do for us and how we can fast track to what we want. As nice of a thought that it is that the universe has our backs and wants what's best for us, that is only true when we show the universe that we are ready and willing to receive. And how do we do that? By showing we are grateful for what we already have. Only when you take the small everyday blessings that usually go unnoticed and thank the universe or higher power for them are you able to make room and show you are ready to receive other blessings. Developing a gratitude practice can greatly change your life and the way you view things. Perspective is a two sided coin. You can spend your time asking “Why is this happening to me?” or you can replace it with “What is this trying to teach me?”

Take 5 minutes in the morning when you wake up or before bed and either make a mental list or you can write it down but think of at least 3-5 things that you are grateful for in that moment and watch how shifting to positive things you already have can change your whole day. There are a ton of gratitude journals on the market to make it a little easier. My personal favorite and the one I use daily is the Start Today gratitude journal originally made by the Hollis Company. Today I am grateful for all of you.