Practicing Gratitude in the New Year
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on the past and set new goals for the future. One of the most important things we can do is develop a consistent practice of gratitude. Gratitude is not only an attitude that can help us move forward, but it can also increase our happiness and overall wellbeing. This year, make it a goal to practice more gratitude. Here are some ways you can incorporate thankfulness into your life so that 2023 can be your best year yet.
Start off each day with a moment of gratitude. Before you even get out of bed, take a few seconds to think of something you’re thankful for. Maybe you’re grateful for your warm bed and cozy blankets, or maybe you’re thankful for all the amazing people in your life who have supported you through every challenge. Whatever it may be, letting yourself start off each day with a moment of thankfulness will put you in the right mindset to tackle anything that comes your way.
Make sure to give thanks throughout the day as well. Whether it’s expressing appreciation for someone holding the door open for you or thanking a coworker for their collaboration, always remember that small moments like these are worth acknowledging and appreciating. By taking time out of your day to recognize the little things in life, you will start seeing more positivity around you and within yourself as well.
Take time out of each week – or even daily – to write down three things that made you happy. It could be anything from finding joy after completing a difficult task at work or simply enjoying some quality time with friends over dinner. Taking stock of all the wonderful moments in life helps us stay positive and appreciate all we have instead of focusing on what we don’t have or haven’t achieved yet.
One thing my wife and I have begun with the new year is creating a “celebration jar”. We set a stack of small, blank notecards, and a large glass jar in our living room. Every time we experience something worth celebrating, accomplish a goal, or otherwise feel especially grateful or happy, we’ll be writing it down and tossing it into the jar. At the end of the year, we’ll be opening it up and reading through all our celebratory moments together. We’re so excited for what the new year will bring!
Lastly, remember to express gratitude to yourself. Showing yourself kindness by treating yourself with love is just as important as showing appreciation towards others around us. Whether it’s getting yourself something nice after achieving a goal or simply pampering yourself with an evening filled with self-care activities – don’t forget about how hardworking and resilient you are! Your hard work deserves recognition too.
By incorporating these practices into our lives the new year ahead, we can actively choose an attitude of thankfulness which will help us get through any tough times ahead while celebrating all the amazing moments along the way. Let’s kick off 2023 by being intentional about radiating love and gratitude!
To close out, I’ve created a 10-minute guided meditation to help bring a practical focus to experiencing gratitude. I’d invite you to pause, breathe, reflect, and contemplate what you feel grateful for as you look forward to a new year.
Tyler Scott | Marketing & Creative Coordinator
