Gratitude. I love that word. I love that feeling. Did you know that you can NOT be in the state of gratitude and fear at the same time? That’s right, it’s just not possible. I once read that the attitude of gratitude opens the doors to miracles and multiplies your blessings. It’s so true. Practicing gratitude is an ancient art of improving all areas of your life, including abundance and actualizing your dreams.
The first homework I ever give a new client is a daily gratitude assignment. I tell them to get used to it because it should be practiced for the rest of their lives – that is, if they are interested in having a life that rocks!
When I work with couples, their first homework assignment is to share what they are grateful for about the other. Do you realize that you can be mad as hell at someone but still find something about them that you are grateful or thankful for? Go ahead, make a practice of telling your significant other what you are grateful for. As long as your gratitudes are authentic, then you will see their hearts of stone melt into a puddle of blissful mush. Awe, that feels so much better than holding on to resentment and anger, doesn’t it? Just this one simple little assignment has turned around failing relationships.
My beloved husband and I practice gratitude with each other all the time. On Sunday mornings, it’s not uncommon for us to go on very long walks and spend the entire time sharing what we are thankful for. It’s actually a deeply spiritual and meditative experience. I encourage you to do this with your special someone, too. But beware, you may find yourself developing a more emotionally intimate connection with one another J.
As we enter into the holiday season on Thanksgiving Day, I triple dare you to use this as an opportunity for choosing to blast family and friends with your gratitude. Go for it, they’ll be so happy you did – and more importantly, so will you.
Please enjoy my two favorite quotes on gratitude:
“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” – William Arthur Ward
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“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” – Albert Einstein
TIP:
Start a “Today, I Am Grateful For…..” Journal and fill it up with all that you are thankful for. Make sure you put your seat belt on because the miracles are coming!!! Enjoy the ride!
Happy Thanksgiving to my wonderful readers. I am deeply grateful to you for enriching my life – just by having you in it.
