Gratitude Is the Attitude

Are you expressing your gratitude? That term is frequently mentioned, yet many individuals struggle to genuinely understand what it means to be grateful.

Well, what does gratitude mean? and why does it matter? According to Oxford, gratitude is a positive emotion that involves feeling thankful and appreciative for something or someone. It can begin with being grateful for the small things, such as clean air, water, a home, your job, and the list goes on indefinitely, like the square root of pi.

The American Heart Association states that showing gratitude is essential for well-being as it positively impacts both physical and mental health. Showing appreciation can lead to better sleep, reduced stress and anxiety, improved cardiovascular health, and a stronger immune system. It also fosters positive emotions, enhances social connections, and promotes a more optimistic outlook on life.

So, how often are you showing gratitude? Like love, is it conditional or unconditional? If you're not, how can you become more grateful? What type of things are you grateful for? We all share this fault, not expressing enough gratitude; as humans, we become so focused on desiring and pursuing more that we overlook appreciating even the tiniest and easiest things. Even during difficult times, and as life can be uplifting, since life encompasses both the good and the bad, the ability to find some positivity amidst negativity. Perhaps it was a lesson you needed, a realization to awaken, a reminder of what truly matters and what doesn’t, what you can control versus what you cannot. Gratitude is essential as it improves general well-being, fosters relationships, and encourages a positive perspective on life. It can enhance mental and physical well-being, increase resilience, and alleviate stress. Engaging in gratitude entails concentrating on the positive elements of life, valuing what you possess, and recognizing the beneficial aspects of your connections.

2025 had a rocky start, but every year does; it's part of life and the human experience. Yes, some years, or even seasons, are more turbulent than others, but still being grateful for the opportunity that is present to you, which is a chance to start over. Every year brings fresh obstacles and some suffering; certain individuals have lost their lives under terrible conditions. Employees who lose their lives while working, as well as children and adults who have perished due to natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, and destructive fires. The capacity to go away and come back home peacefully is a valuable blessing often overlooked. We must never assume these things are guaranteed. Learn to appreciate what you possess, not because you shouldn't desire more, but because there are always others facing tougher situations.

According to positive psychology, some examples of gratitude are:

• Be grateful to the person who prepared your meal.

• Gratitude for your good health.

• Take the time to thank the person who cleans your house or watches your kids.

• Recognize your coworker for taking the initiative to lighten your load.

• Being grateful for the independence you provide to yourself.

• Being grateful for the growth you have made.

Happy Self-Care Sunday!