Over the years, the word “hustle” has become a buzzword.
Many believe that to be happy and successful, you need to put your nose down and grind like there’s no tomorrow.
While hard work is undoubtedly an admirable trait, it is also over-glorified.
At times, in the pursuit of wealth and success, you tend to overlook how blessed you truly are.
Fortunately, there is a way you can effectively avoid falling into this common trap—by practicing gratitude.
The Importance of Gratitude
The science on gratitude is crystal clear: if you want to be happy, you start by being grateful.
One study even indicated that those who practice gratitude for three straight weeks experience more joy, better sleep, lower blood pressure, and even stronger immune systems.
Powerful Gratitude Practices
Boost your happiness dramatically by keeping in mind the following gratitude practices:
Gratitude Journal
Using a gratitude journal is the easiest way to practice gratitude.
To start this practice, you just need to get a gratitude journal and you’re good to go!
Walking
Go for a stroll and appreciate all the beauty around you.
Notice what you love about your surroundings.
Then start saying thank you for them.
Gratitude Meditation
Meditation has been known to improve focus and relieve stress.
However, it also encourages you to see your blessings clearly.
Nowadays, there’s no shortage of guided meditation videos you can find online so this should be an easy practice to start.
Bedtime Gratitude
You can also make gratitude a part of your bedtime routine.
Before sleeping, think of three amazing things you are thankful for that transpired during the day.
Write them all down and say thank you for them.
Gratitude Jar
This is something your entire family can get involved in.
Get a jar and put it on your dining table.
Have everyone in the family write what they are grateful for on a small piece of paper daily and have them drop it in the jar.
You can read the contents of the jar at the end of each week for more impact.
Thank Someone
Saying a simple thank you to your kids, significant other, mailman, or even strangers when they do something for you is another way to practice gratitude.
It would also be best to make it a goal to thank at least one person each day so you can easily make gratitude a part of your daily routine.
Social Media
Undeniably, social media has its downsides.
However, you can also use it to effectively practice gratitude.
Post one thing you are grateful about each day.
You can even invite your connections to also share what they are thankful for as well.
Gratitude List
Just like your gratitude journal, you can keep a massive list of things you are grateful for.
It is also a great way to see the wonderful things that are going on in your life.
Add to your list daily and go over them by the end of each year.
How to Make a Gratitude Practice Work for You
If you want gratitude to be a part of your day-to-day life, keep the following in mind:
Do It Your Way
Let’s be clear about one thing: there is no right or wrong way to do a gratitude practice.
Perhaps you prefer writing things down or maybe you like contemplating about them in silence.
Again, there is no right or wrong way to do it.
Experiment with different ways of practicing gratitude and go with whatever works for you.
Mix It Up
If you are the type who easily gets bored doing the same thing over and over, you can switch things up.
For instance, aside from writing in your gratitude journal, you can try a gratitude jar or creating a huge gratitude list.
Over to You
While hustling is a good thing, it should not hinder you from seeing the many blessings you have in your life. Start your gratitude practice as soon as you can so you won’t miss out on even the tiniest blessings that make life truly grand.