Attitude of Gratitude – 5 Tips on How to be Grateful

It would be easy for many of us to end this year without gratitude, but that would be a mistake. There are so many things to be grateful for, we just have to notice what they are. Living a joyful life means learning to accept the things that we can't change and taking action to live the best life we can.  Here are some tips on how to be grateful now or at any time of the year.

Thank Your Clients. Create a list of your top twenty clients and send them a handwritten card thanking them for their business.  Add a personal message meant just for each person. Anyone can send a card with a pre-printed signature, but handwriting a card shows that you really care. Who do you know who would love to receive a handwritten card from you?

Thank Your Family and Loved Ones.  The whole point of the holidays is to spend meaningful time with those you love. Even though it may be difficult to convey your feelings, the joy you give others when you tell them what they mean to you is extremely gratifying. When was the last time you said to your brother, sister, mother, or father "I love you"? This point was brought home to me when I overheard my husband tell his mother that he loved her. I thought to myself, if my husband can express his feelings to his mom, so can I. To whom can you say "I love you"?

Make Gratitude a Daily Habit. If we make gratitude a part of our day, the negativity won't be so apparent. We may suddenly realize what a blessed life we lead.  At dinner each evening my husband and I tell each other three things we are grateful for that day. This shines a light on the many good things that happen to us daily. How can you make gratitude a daily habit?

Do Something For Someone Without Expectation. Yesterday at the grocery store I noticed a woman behind me with her arms full of Thanksgiving groceries. I asked her if she wanted to go ahead of me and the look of gratitude on her face was overwhelming.  What kind gesture can you bestow upon someone?

Realize How Wonderful Life Is.  Take stock of where you are and be grateful for what you have. There is always someone experiencing the pain of loss or rejection. This year my mother became very ill with a rare disease. She will be recovering for most of next year. I am very grateful she will be ok. My best friend lost her father last week. I feel her pain and have offered her my support.  Take stock of your life and be grateful!

I will end with a great quote by John Ruskin: "What we think or what we know or what we believe is, in the end, of little consequence. The only consequence is what we do."  Be grateful and show your gratitude this holiday season!