If there was ever a time to cultivate gratitude, it’s now. Focusing on what each of us has to be grateful for seems like a viable antidote to the daily news of lost jobs, increasing cost of living, chaos and war on many fronts around the world, and a general sense of uncertainty about the future. If you are worried about what’s happening in the world and how it’s impacting your life, try creating a gratitude list and leaving it somewhere prominent as a daily reminder to keep life in perspective. My point is not to make light of the challenges many of us are facing, but rather to balance our trials and pains with a healthy dose of appreciation.
Suggestions for a Gratitude List:
A positive significant relationship
Children to remind you what really matters
Close and loving family
Good and loyal friends
Good health
A sense of humor
Savings or a credit line to fall back on
A job, job prospects or prospective clients
Enough food to fill your belly
Exercise to relieve stress and keep you fit
Nature in all its beauty
Entertainment, sports and/or games to escape the gloom and doom
Moments of joy and delight to counter moments of anxiety
Love in all its forms
I encourage you to take the time to create your list and keep it close to calm your mind and warm your heart, especially when events around you seem overwhelming and almost unbearable.