14 Tips for Expressing Gratefulness

The word gratitude means something different to everyone.  It could mean having a sense of wonder, or appreciation; looking on the bright side of a setback, or being able to picture and fathom abundance.  It could mean thanking God or someone else in your life; or ‘counting your blessings.’ It may mean savoring; not taking things for granted.  It is coping, and it is present-oriented.

Studies have been done to show that maintaining a sense of gratefulness is beneficial for overall physical and mental health and well-being.   In this hustle and bustle world that we live in, you may think you don’t have time for one more thing.  On the contrary.  Expressing gratitude can take as little as 1 minute and the rewards could last a lifetime.  Being grateful and not expressing it is like wrapping a gift and not giving it.

 Here are several options to help you get started on expressing your gratefulness.

1. Write gratitude letters to people who mean the most to you.  Whether you send them or not is not important.

2. Express gratitude in person by visiting a friend or relative.

3. Devote one time a day to gratitude – at the beginning of meals, bedtime or when your loved one arrives home

4. Journal daily.  Many studies have shown the powerful and positive effects journaling can have on physical and mental health when done just a few times a week.

5. Be respectful of others’ space and possessions.    

6. Give a hug.  Human touch is one of the most powerful acts in the universe. Without it, we would not survive.

7. Provide encouragement and lift someone up when they need it.

8. Give a compliment.  Everyone needs to be praised from time to time.

9. Share your skills and knowledge.  We are all gifted in a different way. 

10. Perform random acts of kindness.  Maybe it will start a positive ripple effect.

11. BE FULLY PRESENT and listen intently to others.  Show them that what they have to say is important.

12. Be positive.

13. Smile often.  It will elevate your overall frequency.

14. Always remember: “THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING TO BE GRATEFUL FOR.”

Don’t limit your expressions of gratitude to November and Thanksgiving.  Instead, choose to be grateful year-round.  When you can find at least one thing to be grateful for each and every day, you will discover that your entire world will begin to change for the better.  Your outlook will become more positive as new opportunities begin to open up for you, simply by taking on an attitude of gratitude.