Gratitude is More Than Just Saying "Thank You"

December 17, 2024

John Conway, LCSWA - Primary Therapist 

What is Gratitude?

Gratitude is a mindset that involves recognizing and appreciating the good in life, no matter how small. This simple practice can transform your outlook, improve your relationships, and boost your physical and mental health. It shifts focus away from what you lack and helps you see the abundance around you.

How to Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude can be simple. Start by keeping a gratitude journal where you jot down three things you’re thankful for each day. I often challenge clients to come up with new things to write in their gratitude journals to prevent the practice from becoming stale. Sometimes we can get into the habit of listing things like family, job, and health. Coming up with new ideas helps keep it fresh and opens our minds, and hearts, to small things we often overlook.

Mindfulness exercises, like pausing to savor joyful moments, also enhance gratitude. By intentionally focusing on what’s good in your life, you train your brain to notice positivity more often. Cultivating gratitude is a small habit with a big impact, paving the way for greater contentment and deeper connections with others.