#57: Count Your Blessings: How Gratitude Changes Everything
Have you ever found yourself grumbling about what you don’t have, only to realize later how blessed you really are? This is me more often then I want to admit. In fact, just last week, as my neighbors made big updates to their homes and backyards, I caught myself wishing for new things too.
But then, I turned my focus back to gratitude. I started appreciating my life and all the blessings…like a peaceful vacation instead of the stress of renovations. That’s what makes gratitude so powerful, it changes our focus.
In this episode, I’m sharing how to harness the power of gratitude to shift your perspective and find peace right where you are.
Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast player or read a summary below.
Introduction
In this episode, I’m diving into three key ways that gratitude transforms our lives. We’ll explore what gratitude really is, how to make it a daily habit, and how to keep going even when it’s tough. If you’re looking to bring more peace and happiness into your life, these ideas will show you exactly how to make gratitude your secret superpower.
Download your free daily gratitude list.
Writing down just one gratitude each day can change your year…and even your life!
Understanding Gratitude and Its Impact
Gratitude is more than saying “thank you” or feeling a little bit of appreciation. It’s a deep acknowledgment of life’s blessings, even in the midst of challenges.
When we focus on gratitude, we’re training our minds to see abundance rather than scarcity, which can make a profound difference in our happiness and overall well-being. In fact, research shows that those who practice gratitude feel less stress, sleep better, and have stronger relationships.
Gratitude is a mindset that can transform our lives. I shared an example of my neighbors and their home improvements, and how I got sucked into focusing on what I didn’t have. But then I remembered the power of gratitude and when I shifted my focus, I began to see the simple blessings in my life—and that brought me peace.
Practical Ways to Practice Gratitude Daily
If you’re wondering how to start a gratitude practice, it’s really pretty simple.
One of the easiest ways is by keeping a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for; they don’t have to be big things, and honestly, it’s even better if they are the simple things in your life like a warm cup of coffee, a good friend’s call, or a sunset.
Another way is to share your gratitude with others and with God. A quick “I appreciate you” text can brighten someone’s day and strengthen your connection. A quick prayer of thanksgiving can be super powerful.
Making gratitude part of your daily routine will change your life. For me it’s things like saying a prayer of thanks before meals or pausing in the morning to appreciate a new day. These small practices add up and keep our focus on the positive.
Start your Prayer and Gratitude journaling today.
Overcoming Challenges to Gratitude
Gratitude isn’t always easy, especially when life gets hard. When you’re stressed or going through a difficult time, finding things to be grateful for may feel nearly impossible. But that’s when gratitude can help the most.
I’ll be honest; I’ve been there too. It’s easy to compare ourselves to others and feel “less than,” but that mindset only steals our joy. Instead, I encourage you to avoid the comparison trap and focus on your unique journey.
Gratitude isn’t about ignoring struggles; it’s about acknowledging them while also recognizing the good that can come from them. Start small, like finding one thing to be grateful for each day. Over time, these moments will build resilience and bring a sense of peace, even during tough times.
Wrapping it Up
Gratitude is a powerful practice that can bring more peace, joy, and authentic happiness into your life. By understanding what gratitude is, finding simple ways to practice it daily, and embracing it even during tough times, we start to see just how transformative this mindset can be.
If you’re ready to build a life focused on abundance rather than lack, gratitude is the path forward. Try starting your gratitude journey today by writing down three things you’re thankful for and sharing your appreciation with others. And if you want to dive deeper, listen to this episode of the Make Happiness Happen podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
Next Steps
I’d love to hear your insights and ahas! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram or Facebook, or drop me an email at shelly@makehappinesshappen.com. And if you haven’t joined our community yet, be sure to request to join The Happiness Vibe Tribe on Facebook. Most importantly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss any future episodes!
Episode Resources:
- Daily Prayer and Gratitude Journal by Shelly Covert
- What is Gratitude and Why Is It So Important by Positive Psychology
- How to Practice Gratitude by Very Well Mind
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