By now, you should be noticing some changes in your life, and hopefully they are for the better. And for those changes, you should be grateful. Yes, grateful. Gratitude is an often-overlooked habit and one that can be developed.
My good friend and coach (and Olympic torch bearer), Chris Janzen (www.triathletemind.com), introduced me to the daily habit of thinking about five things for which I should be grateful. At first, it took a little work and practice. But I soon learned there is plenty in life for which to give thanks. Simple things like food, breathing, and health came easily to mind. Then I expanded it to what I had learned in life, what friends had given me, and how blessed I have been with a wonderful, caring, and loving family. Now, every night before I fall asleep, I easily think upon the good things given to me by God that day.
Why is being grateful important in habit building? Because it builds a feeling of happiness and contentment; it can give a sense of pride and comfort. It helps maintain feelings of calm when you think the odds are stacked against you. Reminding yourself of how fortunate you are with the little or big victories in life is inspiring. And most importantly, that reminder comes from within and is not dependent upon the external world.
So, this week, take my friend Chris' advice, and start thinking of how you have been blessed; before you fall asleep at night, write down in your journal, or simple recall, five things for which you are grateful. Give blessing to God for the wonderful things in your life. Think on the positive and uplifting, and congratulate yourself for the progress you have made so far.
"I am grateful for what I am and have.
My thanksgiving is perpetual...
O how I laugh when I think of my vague indefinite riches.
No run on my bank can drain it
for my wealth is not possession but enjoyment."
-Henry David Thoreau
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