Gratitude: The Key To A Happy Life

Here in the States, we just passed the Thanksgiving holiday.  It truly is one of my favorite days of the year and not just for the food (although I really do love that). The major reason I love the holiday is the meaning behind it…gratitude.  Thanksgiving reminds us to be grateful for the many blessings we enjoy every day.

That’s a message that we would all do well to keep in our hearts, but it’s also a message that is all too easily lost in the hustle and bustle of daily life.  Thanksgiving serves as a great reminder.

I think most people, regardless of their religious beliefs, make an extra effort to “count their blessings” on that day and that’s great!  Experts have often said that gratitude is one of the most powerful emotions you can experience.  It is especially useful in fighting off discontent and the sadness that accompanies it.

When people focus on what is “right” with their life, it leaves very little time to lament what may be perceived as missing.  Just imagine how great life would be if we spent more time being thankful for what we have than we do stewing about what we want.  Great things would happen.

An “attitude of gratitude” can change discontent into excitement.

When you are thankful for the parts of your job that you enjoy, that dead-end position becomes enjoyable.  You’ll be amazed at the positive change you will perceive in those around you when your attitude improves.  It sounds funny, but give it a try.

When you count the things you love about your spouse or significant other, you remind yourself why you fell for them in the first place.  This can help light a passionate fire under a romance in a rut.

When you are truly thankful for those things you have, the latest fads don’t affect you as much.  Wouldn’t it be nice to live without a long list of “nagging wants?”

As we close out 2011 and open 2012, let’s adopt an attitude of gratitude.  Sure, it’s perfectly fine to seek out new mountains to climb, but be grateful for those you’ve already mastered.  Let’s make Thanksgiving a year-long celebration.

Be blessed,

Tim Hicks is an author, evangelist, success coach and home-based business owner. He is a former professional wrestling personality and he is also a self-professed computer geek. These days, he like to help other people achieve their dreams and live the life they deserve.

Tim Hicks

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