Being Grateful

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we invite you to think about when you are likely to express thanks. Do you have to feel good to express it? Can you do it when you're upset? I know for me, it's easier to express gratitude when things are going my way.

When times are good, most people are generous in their gratitude. Yet, our most valuable lessons are frequently learned when faced with adversity and challenge. If we expressed thanks during these times, could we more easily overcome the next obstacles we face?

Several years ago my father was very ill , and it was a very difficult time for me. I left to run his business and look after my mother while having to care for my father. I didn't think I had much be grateful for. That's when a friend reminded that I should give thanks for everything I have as opposed to complaining about things. I started giving thanks for the people who were helping me for the extra time I had with my father before he died, and all the life lessons my father had taught me through his life. Things like learning not to take myself so seriously and lighten up, and to appreciate my friends who they are. In the end, being thankful helped me to see that even in the midst of such sadness, there were still good things in my life.

*Dr. Martin Seligman who is author of the best seller Learned Optimism and Authentic Happiness has conducted research on how people can increase their positive emotions.

Count Your Blessings...

My experience with this exercise was that it was easy at first.  Who can't think of three things to be grateful for?  But then it got harder.  I ran out of the obvious (e.g., my wife and mother, my friends, good health).  This forced me to become aware of the "smaller" things to be thankful for each day: hot showers in the morning, a flexible job, good Mexican food to eat in my town, watching movies at home, a warm sunny day in the middle of winter. 

By starting notice and appreciating the blessings in your life you will begin to notice the positive effects of this habit will become apparent in your mood, your relationships, and your perspective on life.