GRATITUDE – See the Good, not the Gap

Have you ever noticed the flower on a cactus plant?  Usually we are so focused on avoiding the prickles, we fail to take in the exquisite flower. Life can be like that too.  We are experts at seeing the gap. 

Gratitude helps us to focus on the good. 

Gratitude is a social emotion that helps us to feel more connected to one another. Regular gratitude practices can not only improve our relationships but also give us, and those around us a boost of much needed positive emotion. 

Feelings of gratitude cut through negative emotions and quieten ruminations. Experiencing gratitude fills our minds and bodies with oxytocin, the feel-good hormone designed to help us bond with others. Oxytocin also strengthens our immune system. 

Some people are naturally grateful. They can’t help but count their blessings every day. Others can build gratitude over time. Conscious awareness and a willingness to do something each day for at least 21 days will create a meaningful change. Here is something to try:

 Three Good Things: TGT (Seligman, 2005)

This activity is meant to be verbally shared but can also be completed as a journal activity. At the end of each day, highlight three moments across the day that went well. These can be the tiniest micro-moments or larger happenings. Share these with a family member or via text message with someone you love. You can also write them in a TGT journal. Reflecting on why you think they happened and how you might increase the likelihood of them happening again in the future is also very beneficial. This simple sharing activity builds not only gratitude but also happiness and resilience.  

Our wellbeing is deeply intertwined with gratitude. As we practise it in our daily lives, we can boost our own wellbeing and improve the wellbeing of others. 

Lisa Barker