It can (in my opinion) accurately be stated that gratitude is *the* trait that makes happiness possible.
After all…
Key Point: You can have tons and tons of blessings/reasons to be happy, but if you don’t have gratitude for them, it’s like not having them at all. And you simply cannot be happy.
And when I say “blessings,” I’m not talking about fancy cars, boats, or private jets (though there is certainly nothing wrong with any of them; if you desire them and can easily afford them, then purchase and fully enjoy them).
I’m talking about those simple but immensely important things we often take for granted, such as the ability to see, hear, touch, taste, and smell, as well as the ability to walk and to talk. It includes having a mind that is sound and able. It’s having friends and family we love; having a roof over our heads and food to nourish us and enjoy. It’s having work we find fulfilling. It’s being able to enjoy a simple cup of hot coffee or tea or our beverage of choice. It’s the ability to breathe in and breathe out without having to struggle to do so…and so, so much more!
Yes, there are many things for which to be grateful — most of which we don’t even think about…until we no longer have them. (Think: Internet Connection. Only sort of kidding.) 😉
Important Question: Where are you currently in terms of an attitude of gratitude? Is it something you feel you need to work on?
What steps do you actively take to ensure that you live “in gratitude”…as opposed to ingratitude?
Comment: This was a huge discovery for me personally. For the first 35 years of my life, I truly lacked a sense of gratitude, both overall and specific. When I finally began to understand this concept — and take action on it, making the choice to live with a focus on gratitude — my life quickly changed for the better.
Gratitude really is *that* important when it comes to happiness!
Exercise: Do a “Gratitude Check” and rate yourself on a scale of 1-10. Please don’t judge, just notice. Begin to make Gratitude a focus of your life, constantly noticing what you’re grateful for. Rate your “Gratitude Level” every night before going to sleep. And watch how your score begins to improve! Then, let the momentum take hold!
Bob,
Excellent article on Gratitude.
I once read that the best prayer we can say is only two words. I think it may be a great way to end each day.
The prayer is:
Thank You.
Thank you, Coach Sullivan! Indeed, a wonderful and powerful two-word prayer!