Why is Being Grateful so Powerful?

When you are down — try looking up

Being grateful is one of the most underrated approaches to dealing with hardships.

Why is gratefulness so important?

Being grateful gives us hope and faith that we will do more than survive — we will eventually thrive.

When you are down and anxious, try being grateful.

Lesson to Learn

Mental, and often, physical pain is a part of our lives. They certainly are a part of the world around us.

We will all feel hopeless and frustrated at times.

And yet, what is the best remedy?

Sages and ordinary people will say that finding something to be grateful for can lift our spirits and give us new hope to carry on.

Answer for Me

Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have found the need to dig deep to stay motivated and hopeful.

Honestly, who hasn’t had moments of fear, anxiety, and frustration?

What has been the best antidote?

Pausing each morning, and times throughout my day, to remember all the people and parts of my life for which I am grateful.

It brings a smile to my face. It gives joy to my heart.

Then, I can begin the journey again to serve and love someone else.

Action

It is essential to acknowledge our reality and feel the real pain in our lives and acknowledge the pain in those around us.

However, do not stay there.

Do something positive.

Be grateful for who you are, what you have, and what you can do to make a difference: gratefulness leads to hope and powerfulness.

When we can act to make a positive difference (even in small ways) we are powerful beyond our wildest dreams.

Daily Habits

Feel what you are feeling, but do not stay there.

Move on to being grateful for who is in your life and what you have.

Acknowledge what you can do today to help others.

Sometimes it’s as small as smiling and offering reassurance to others. Sometimes it is large.

Be grateful for what you can do — and proceed to do it.

If you can repeat this virtuous cycle, you have had a great day!

To learn more about leadership visit me at www.macny.org.

To get a copy of my book Present-Future Leader, go to www.amazon.com.