Tips for Being Grateful and Mindful

November 11, 2020

With all that’s happening in the world today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by negativity. But don’t let it eclipse your ability to see the good in your life. These days, we all need to be deliberate about stoking positivity and practicing positive thinking. When you focus on being grateful and keeping a hopeful mindset, you give yourself the chance to feel calmer and more grounded.

So stop, take a moment, and remind yourself to be grateful for what you have and be mindful of your potential to radiate happiness. If you need a little help getting started, here are a few simple tips on gratitude to keep you calm, conscientious, and focused on positive thinking.

1.) Unplug

For starters, stop doomscrolling the never-ending cascade of bad news. Put your phone down, step away from your laptop, and give your brain a break. Bombarding yourself with catastrophes is depressing and disheartening. Unplug for a while and do something that sparks joy.

2.) Take A Walk

Endless to do lists and demands at home can make you feel trapped indoors. Set yourself free with a walk in the great outdoors. It doesn’t have to be an epic hike. Start with a walk around your neighborhood. You may think you’re strolling on that same-old familiar ground, but you’ll be surprised what new discoveries you’ll find if you’re receptive. 

3.) Be Aware of the Present Moment

While you’re on your walk, don’t just zone out. Be intentional, be aware, and be fully present in the moment. Don’t think about the past, the future, or your to-do list. Take deep breaths and notice your surroundings. Merely being grateful for what’s in front of you can really change your outlook. And if you catch yourself thinking about all the housework you need to do, gently remind yourself to come back to the present moment.

4.) Share Your Gratitude with Others

Reach out to friends, family, and mentors and tell them how grateful you are to have them in your life. You’d be surprised how sharing just a few simple words of gratitude can uplift not only the spirits of others, but yours as well. Paying compliments to important people in your life is a great way to start a chain reaction of appreciation that they may pass along to others. This is one of the most powerful tips on gratitude: when you express how you are being grateful out loud, you reinforce your own commitment to be grateful and strengthen your relationships at the same time.

5.) Being Grateful and Do Something Bigger Than Yourself

If you find yourself complaining about what you’re lacking, consider volunteering for a cause you believe in or donating to an organization like Mercy Home for Boys & Girls. Serving others in need is a selfless way to be the change you want to see in the world. Being aware of those less fortunate than you will give you a deeper appreciation of what you have. 
 
By following these simple practices and returning to them often, you’ll find that being grateful becomes more natural every day. Over time, you won’t have to remind yourself to be grateful – it will start to feel like second nature. Let these gentle tips on gratitude guide you toward a more mindful, hopeful life where positive thinking and the choice to be grateful shape how you see the world.