Maintain An Attitude of Gratitude

There are many books out there that will help you attain better health and many others that claim to bring you the secret to happiness, as well as others on having better relationships. In this video, I will share with you one activity that can unlock many benefits without having to read a single book. 

Psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, have done a lot of research on gratitude. In one study, they asked all participants to write a few sentences each week, focusing on particular topics. One group wrote about things they were grateful for that had occurred during the week. A second group wrote about daily irritations or things that displeased them, and the third wrote about events that had affected them (either positively or negatively). After 10 weeks, those who wrote about gratitude were more optimistic and felt better about their lives. Surprisingly, they also exercised more and had fewer visits to physicians than those who focused on sources of aggravation. 

Such is the power of the attitude of gratitude. Besides feeling optimistic and having better health, gratitude also increases one’s mental strength and fosters resilience. It opens the door to more relationships. Showing appreciation can help you win new friends, according to one study.

Are you having trouble sleeping? Try this: Spend just 15 minutes jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed. It could help you sleep better and longer.

By Parcsen Loke, Family Life Coach, Centre for Fathering.

Food For Thought: List three things that you are grateful for this week