Gratitude and Ways to Show It
Thanksgiving is upon us! It’s time to eat large quantities of food. And the best part is that the calories don’t count. So, eat until you can’t stand and then eat some dessert. Especially some delicious hot apple pie with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side.
But that’s enough food talk. Time to address gratitude. Gratitude is the act of being thankful or expressing thankful. Gratitude can be shown in a multitude of ways. I’m going to talk about some of my favorite ways of showing gratitude.
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Writing a letter
If you’re like me, then whenever you get something in the mail your heart soars. I love getting mail. So, I love sending little letters of thanks to my family and friends. There’s something about handwriting a letter and then sending it in the mail that feels good. That’s not to say that texts and emails can’t have the same effect but letters feel more special.
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Keep a gratitude journal
A gratitude journal is a great way to keep track of all the things that you’re thankful for. The idea behind the journal is that if you ever feel down, then you can look back and remember those things that make you happy.
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Say Thank You More Often
Saying thank you when something is done for you seems obvious. However, many people fail to realize how great saying thank you can feel. Expressing gratitude through thanking others can not only make your day but the person you’re thanking. For example, when you’re getting off the bus say thank you to the driver as you leave. Not only does acknowledging acts of kindness boost your gratitude, but it also puts a smile on someone else’s face.
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Call Someone and Talk
When was the last time you called your parents or someone you haven’t seen in a while? You can call them just to say hello and check up on them. Showing someone you care about them can make you happier. Especially when those feelings of care are reciprocated. Sometimes taking the time to catch up with someone can be just want you needed. Not only do you get to talk to someone you care for, but you can have some surprisingly great conversations.
The best part about gratitude is that you can express it ALL YEAR ROUND! You’re not confined to just thanksgiving when everyone says something they’re grateful for. You can be thankful in all the little things in life and significantly increase your mood. So, this thanksgiving, I encourage you to really take time to be grateful for all the things life has blessed you with. Because if you try then I’m sure you’ll find, you have lots to be thankful for.