How can gratitude help us live a happier life?
Many people state that happiness or “being happy” is one of their greatest goals in life. But do we really know how to get there?
Happiness is often perceived as a state that we can reach by achieving certain goals. “I will be happy once I have created a successful business.” “I will be happy when I have a family who loves me.” “I would be happy if I won the lottery.”
Do you recognize thoughts like that from your own life?
Be careful, you might be wrong.
Research suggests that happiness is more related to being grateful for what we already have. Neuro-Scientists and positive psychology practitioners believe that practicing gratitude is an effective way to increase happiness in our lives.
“Gratitude is linked to a host of psychological, physical, and social benefits: stronger immune systems, lower blood pressure, more feelings of joy, and a greater sense of social connection, among many others.” ~ Robert Emmons
Sounds too simple to be true? It isn’t, try it for yourself. All you need is 2 minutes every day!
Create your very own “Book of Happiness” and write down 3 things you are grateful for every day.
Every night before you go to bed ask yourself the question:
What am I grateful for in my life?
Here some thought-helpers to get you started:
- Something good/great that happened today
- An person in your life that helped you
- An opportunity you will have tomorrow
- Something simple near you
Try to keep some variety by bringing in all of the topics above on a regular basis.
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Use myLifeCoach.me and its 2 Minute Journal – it really only takes 2 minutes per day.
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