Cultivating Gratitude: A Guide to a Happier Life

Developing an attitude of gratitude is one of the best things you can do for yourself. The benefits are nearly endless. Suddenly you will find yourself surrounded by good things, good friends and living a good life. This may be because you start to notice those good things, or because a thankful attitude works to magnetically attract things to be thankful for.

Instructions

• 1

  Start small. Look for small things that you can be grateful for, like a perfect parking spot on a cold day, an unexpected dollar bill in your pocket or a favor from a friend or co-worker.

• 2

  Count your blessings. One good way to learn gratitude is to make a list of the things that you have to be thankful for.

• 3

  Say the words. Saying, "Thank you" is an effective way to learn gratitude. Speaking the words out loud--whether to another person or to your higher power-reinforces your feelings of thankfulness.

• 4

  Write it down. Send notes to your family and friends to say express your gratitude even for small favors. This is an excellent way to spread your thankfulness to those around you.

• 5

  Keep a journal. At the end of every day, take a few minutes to make a written list of the things that you were grateful for that day. Review your lists when you are having a hard day.

• 6

  Slow down. If you're ever having difficulty finding things to be thankful for, stop and consciously look for the good things in your life.