Ever notice how from time to time a theme tends to pop up in multiple places? Lately I’ve struggled with remaining positive. With all the political bickering, which I freely admit I participate in all too often, and the constant drone of negative nonsense in the media, both news and entertainment, it’s became overwhelming. I realized I wasn’t happy.
I decided to make some changes and asked God for some guidance. Next thing I knew I kept coming across the advice that being grateful is the key to happiness. Somewhere along the line this concept penetrated my dense skull and sunk in deep enough that I became aware of how true it is. Next thing I know, I’m seeing it everywhere. It’s like when you buy a new car, ever notice how suddenly it seems like that exact make, model, and color is everywhere?So I’ve decided to do a few things to help remind me to be grateful. I thought I’d share some of these tips with you because I’m grateful you’ve taken time out of your busy schedule to read my ramblings.
1.) Keep a gratitude journal. Each evening before bed, write down 3 things you are grateful for that occurred that day. They don’t have to be huge things. Then review your journal on a weekly basis.
2.) Be intentional about being grateful. Don’t put things off. When someone does something nice or helpful for you, make sure and express gratitude then & there. When you have an opportunity to pay it forward, do so. Don’t keep it to yourself, because you never know how it may impact someone else’s life.
At a recent Power Lunch event, we convened a roundtable discussion with a group of local women who own businesses. Two different ladies expressed gratitude for others in the room because of how they had positively impacted their careers and/or lives. One woman told of how she met her husband through the efforts of another guest. Another participant shared her story of how a fellow woman business owner had encouraged her to never give up and lived the advice she gave. Both expressions of gratitude sent waves of inspiration throughout the meeting and I am grateful for being there to hear the stories and experience the moment.
3.) Find something bigger than yourself to be involved with. Give back to the community, or volunteer some resources. Contribute to someone else’s life. Share your gifts freely in some capacity, and be generous with your life. Each person’s life has a purpose, and it’s your duty to seek out your highest calling.
4.) Keep a realistic perspective. Don’t buy into the victim mentality. Take responsibility for yourself and look for ways to set yourself up to be self-reliant. The more you insist on depending on others for your basic needs, the more often you’re going to be disappointed. That DOES NOT mean you shouldn’t trust others or rely upon them. Relationships are where your true wealth resides. It’s important to understand a need versus a desire. No one can make you happy. It must come from within. Always strive to be the best you possible and look for ways to use your skills & gifts as often as possible. Smile more. Cry more. Love always.
I’m appreciative of the opportunity to share some advice with you. Here are a few people from the local community I’m grateful to because they’ve poured some of themselves into my life. My apologies if I miss anyone.
My clients, too numerous to name individually
Tony Richards
Cathy Atkins
Lynn Wobig
John Gage
Kat Cunningham
Debbie LaRue
Pastor Mike Burt
Michael & Nelly Roach
Tom Trabue
Ann Wilhelm
Kari Everly
Beth Steele
Closing quote: “You are constantly being shaped by what you appreciate in life. If you appreciate the most admirable people, the most beautiful things, and things that have the greatest value, then that is what you will become yourself.” — Dan Sullivan, author of The Gratitude Principle
Tags: appreciation, gratitudeCategories: Business, Marketing, Success.
