The power of gratitude


While in hospital I was reintroduced to the idea of gratitude. It was a term I had heard before, but I'd never really adopted. I don't know why because I have so much to be grateful for; we all do, and when you have anxiety or depression, it is especially important to remember what you are grateful for, otherwise, we get lost in the endless negativity that is our minds.

Lisa Firestone from Psychology Today argues that gratitude is possibly the most important element to finding success and happiness in the modern day. As she says "Knowing what we appreciate in life means knowing who we are, what matters to us and what makes each day worthwhile. Paying attention to what we feel grateful for puts us in a positive frame of mind. It connects us to the world around us and to ourselves". 

In fact, research shows that being grateful is a universally rewarding method to feel more content and fulfilled. Scientific studies have shown that gratitude can create increased happiness and positive emotions, new and lasting relationships, improved health, more progress towards personal goals, less aches and pains, higher alertness and determination, increased generosity and empathy, improved sleep, and improved self-esteem (Firestone, Psychology Today). 

However, being grateful is easier said than done. To be truly grateful we need to slow down and really assess what is important to us. This brings with it a certain vulnerability. For instance, to love means we have something to lose. I adore my children and the thought of losing them brings me great sadness. This is why it is sometimes hard to acknowledge the things we are grateful for in life because we fear we don't deserve them or we may lose them. Recognising what we have can also bring up feelings of guilt, especially if we feel that we have what someone else wants or that we have more than someone else. 

For me, it really is about the belief of being undeserving of the things I have. There's a little voice inside my head that tells me I don't deserve my house, my husband, my children, my privileged life. It taunts me constantly, reminding me of the reasons I shouldn't have all these things. This is something I try to silence with positive affirmations. Statements such as "I don't need to be perfect" and "I only want to be me" help me to remind myself that I am a good person and that I am deserving of good things. 

So today I will be grateful for 

  • My children
  • My husband and my marriage
  • My health   

                                                                                                       

                                                                                                           

                                                      




        



What are three things you are grateful for? 

Comments

  1. cynthia7 April 2025 at 01:38

    I am writing to share my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Harry for the incredible results he achieved in treating me and my cousin's sister. I was cured of the herpes virus through his herbal remedy, and my cousin's sister also experienced a full recovery from the same condition. This is a truly remarkable testimony to Dr. Harry's dedication and the efficacy of his treatment. I feel compelled to share my story so that others can access his healing services. If you are seeking treatment, I urge you to contact Dr. Harry via email at drharryherbs@gmail.com for a chance at better health

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