Power of Gratitude

As I’ve poured myself further into the world of self improvement, I keep coming across the concept of gratitude. No matter where you’re getting (if any) you’re self improvement lessons from, the message is consistently the same: Being grateful for where you are will make going where you want to go possible.

I have to admit that I have sort of blown off this concept as something of little importance. Sure I tried to consistently put aside 5 or 10 minutes a day (preferably in the morning) to think about what I have in my life, and what I’m grateful for. For the most part, I just go through the motions seeing this more or less as a chore that eventually will pay off with long term practicing. But lately I’ve begun incorporating pictures (mainly of loved ones) and music into my gratitude routine…it’s simply amazing. I get it now. I feel so rich and alive following 10 minutes of just realizing how lucky I am to have all the wonderful things I have that I can’t help but get out into my day full of energy and excitement.

It’s so interesting that my thoughts are naturally drawn to things I have perceived as “bad” in my life. I realize that I’m only weighing myself down and closing out opportunities to enjoy this life by doing so. I’ve even begun to be grateful for the event surrounding my mom’s illness and death. It’s amazing once I began to realize all the wonderful lessons and gifts that her passing brought into my life, the anger and all the“it’s not fair,” claims fell by the wayside. If you look closely, you’ll find everything “bad” that happened in your life presented you a treasure trove of lessons and opportunities. I’m a better person and can contribute to the world in a far more powerful way having been through this experience. I’m grateful for that.

I’ve always said that my life (and yours) is a direct reflection of perspective. Your income is a reflection of how you truly perceive your worth in the world. There’s a reason why very few people who make over say $100k a year ever make less than that once they cross it…they’ve now accepted the perspective that they are worth at least $100k a year, and expect that every year. There’s a reason why some people can never seem to find a long term relationship despite wanting one. It’s not because they’re not good looking enough, funny enough, personable enough, or good enough. It only has to do with their perception of their ability to have a successful relationship.

I believe strongly that your life is affected directly by your perception, so if you can ensure that you’re consistently building a happier and more open perspective you will begin to fill your world with even more to be grateful for. With this, I can truly see the power of gratitude. By starting your day or taking some time to realize just how lucky you are, you can instantly feel better. You can begin to improve your perspective on the world, and your life will begin to reflect that positive approach immediately.

I know it sounds cheesy, but give it a try. You’ll be surprised how good you feel.