An "Attitude of Gratitude". You may have heard that phrase before, but do you know that there are proven benefits to having a thankful attitude?
In his research into the positive effects of gratitude, Robert Emmons, University of California, discovered that those who practiced thankfulness had increased levels of the chemicals serotonin & dopamine, that are associated with pleasure & contentment. His study documents a plethora of benefits such as:
* Increased optimism
* Reduction of reported "ill health" physical symptoms
* Higher alertness, determination, enthusiasm & energy
* Improved sleep
* Lower levels of stress & depression
One simple way to increase your awareness of the good things happening in your life is to create a create a Gratitude Journal. Studies done by Martin Seligman, author of Authentic Happiness, show that a weekly recording of the good things happening in your life will bring about increased mental and physical well-being.
Expression your thanks or appreciation for a job well done can help improve the morale of the people around you. In our seminars on Interpersonal Communication, we teach folks how to give and receive Positive Feedback. Be specific when letting someone know they have done a great job or have provided a beneficial service. And, here's a hint when on the receiving end of someone's gratitude: say "Thank you!" and then, zip it!! You don't need to add qualifying phrases like "Oh, it was nothing" or "I'd do that for anyone". Let the person know you value their appreciation!
This is a great time of year to begin a new gratefulness habit. Begin your Gratitude Journal by taking a weekly break to ponder and record thoughts like:
*3 things I'm grateful for
*4 good things that happened this week
*2 things that made me smile
There is a proverb that says "A cheerful heart is good medicine." So take some good medicine today and, while you're at it....pass it around. |