When things are going well for us, be it love, a promotion, or any other stroke of good fortune, we have a tendency to view the world with a halo atop it. When things aren’t going so hot – when plans fall through, when tragedy strikes – we have a tendency to view the world through a fog, sky full of dark rain clouds. Regardless of the current circumstances you’re faced with in life, there is always room for improvement and illumination…the following are ways to enhance the powerhouse otherwise known as gratitude:
1. Take stock of what you’ve got.
So, you may not have a winning lottery ticket…hell, you may not even be able to afford a lottery ticket. However, there is always something to be grateful for, no matter how big or small it may be. Taking stock of the positive things that you do have instead of noting the things that you don’t is an effective, logical way to remind yourself that everything will eventually be okay. Plus, the next time you do receive some good news, you’ll savor it that much more.
2. Make peace with your past and don’t turn back.
Sh*t happens; this is something we know to be true. However, it’s our reaction to unforeseen devastation that defines our character. That being said, living in the past will absolutely annihilate your spirit. You have to be able to pick yourself back up after tragedy and continue full-speed ahead into the next realm of your life. Rather than wallowing in the storm that has recently passed, bask in the sunshine that lies ahead. You will not be disappointed.
3. Focus on your gains rather than your losses.
Be it a person, an opportunity, or an object, you’re bound to experience some form of loss throughout this trippy life. Grief in regards to any of the aforementioned can be a debilitating experience. Once you’ve gone through that process, however, try to redirect your energy towards the gains you’ve made, instead what is gone. If you’ve got a phenomenal family, channel your energy into that. If your friends kick ass, choose to spend your time with them. Allowing yourself to be upset over loss is only fair and right, but there is much more power in goodness than malevolence, so once you’ve thoroughly grieved, kindly move the f*ck on and watch fresh opportunities unfold.
4. Be a nice person, dammit.
As with all of life’s affairs, you’ll get good out if you put good in. Simple things tend to make the people we love most the happiest, and simplicity just so happens to be easily accomplished. The more inclined you are to do nice things for others, the more inclined you are to treasure the little things you receive in turn. If you have the opportunity to make someone’s day, do it. Not being a douche has its perks. I promise.
Do good, feel good. Live a beautiful and bountiful life. Be thankful for it all, each and every day.
Featured image via RODNAE Productions on Pexels
You gotta be grateful, cuz just maybe you will have more to be grateful about!