Last week I talked about the connection between gratitude and happiness, and I mentioned three important steps. Think-Say-and-ACT. Today is step 1: Thinking.
It all starts with thinking, because “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks”. This means what you continually “think about” comes out in your words and actions and changes your life for better or towards a more negative outcome.
The real benefit comes in changing how you experience the world. Look for things to be grateful for, and you’ll start seeing them. When you have and dwell on thoughts of gratitude, you will have more energy, more optimism, and more happiness.
Studies show that using negative, derogatory words — even as you talk to yourself — can darken your mood and dampen your spirit. Grateful student reported higher grades, more life satisfaction, and better social integration.
Gratefulness does not depend on your material possessions. It is a state of mind no matter what your circumstances are. So let’s start this week by thinking gratefully. More to come next week.