gratitude

How to Find More Joy and Happiness in your Day

I am sure you will agree with me on this, we have good days and we have bad days, and sometimes, really really bad days…

Lets look at one example: for instance, you are very upset with your spouse for whatever reason, so you are in a state of negative spiral. In this spiral all you can process in your mind is about why you are so angry, and all your reasoning supports what you are feeling, then you feel that your anger and resentments are justified…

Every thoughts triggers the emotions… you feel so angry, only lashing out could justify your feelings. Yet deep down, you need to find another way to process the anger… but how?

Going for a walk?

Talking to a friend?

Or full blown anger towards your spouse?

I am sharing with you a simple trick to manage negatives emotions – the “gratitude” trick.

Instead of thinking what and why you are so angry, switch your mind into the “gratitude” mode. For example, look at what  it is that you love about your spouse, what  it is about him/her that makes you smile or laugh. Think of the journey and experiences that you and your spouse shared together, how you laughed or cried together, the fun moments together… Think about that and start noticing how your mood changes, and your anger will lessen…

When you are in a “grateful” state of mind, your thoughts will be guided to focus on what you HAVE rather than what you don’t have. Gratitude means knowing how blessed you are with where you are at this moment in time.

So what is gratitude?

In the dictionary, gratitude is stated as a feeling of thankfulness or appreciation, as for gifts or favours.

So what are you grateful for today?

Think about where you were yesterday and what you have today, or what you had a year ago and what you have right now, at this present moment.

Steps: appreciate 5 things in the last 24 hours, such as

  • Family and friends
  • Peace
  • Opportunities in your life
  • Health
  • Jobs
  • Spending quality time with your family
  • Wonderful educational and health facilities
  • A beautiful sunset
  • And so much more

How to start?

Every night before you head to bed, think of one thing that you are grateful for. Use that opportunity to remind yourself about the many beautiful things in your life, your work, home, family… And every morning before you get out of bed, think about something that you are grateful for.

Gratitude will turn everyday into more joy and happiness, and turn challenges in life into opportunities for growth and blessings. Gratitude grounds you in the present and provides an opportunity to be in touch with your core.

I am leaving you with this phrase:

“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”
– Oprah Winfrey

Have a happy, joyful and connected day with your family.