The Power of Gratitude - Small Steps That Make A Big Difference

 “Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses” – Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr

With the second semester starting and the workload increasing, it can be natural to get stressed out and let the pity talk get to your head. 

I can’t do this.

I’m too tired. 

This is too difficult for me. 

I’m sure that we have all been a victim of these thoughts every now and then, but now more than ever. This is completely normal. There isn’t a way to completely erase these thoughts from coming into your mind but there is a way to change your perspective and how you approach this mindset. 

I am thankful for my ability to see extraordinary places with my own eyes

What is gratitude? 

The definition of gratitude is a positive emotion that involves being thankful and appreciative.

Gratitude is simply being grateful for what is given to you. It involves recognizing the good aspects and valuing the people in your life that make it good. Gratitude does not mean living a life simply where you only have positive thoughts and are always happy no matter what is thrown at you. That’s impossible and sometimes even unhealthy. It reminds you that it’s okay if not everything worked out and allows you to find light through adversities.

I am grateful that I have a family that supports every decision I make

How can you practice gratitude?

A common misconception that people have is that you need to spend money on a journal and spend at least 15-20 minutes each day writing. Although keeping a journal can be beneficial for practicing daily gratitude it is not necessary. Practicing gratitude can be as easy as saying one thing you are grateful for each morning, or feeling gratefulness in a specific moment.

I am grateful that I have friends that not only encourage me but push me to become better

Benefits 

You feel more fulfilled in most aspects of your life

Although it may sound extremely simple and to some pointless, as you implement these small things into your daily routine they become natural and lead your inner monologue to close off the negative self-degrading thoughts and welcome the positive more fulfilling ones.

Improves relationships 

Upon Implementing gratitude habits you slowly start to realize how fortunate you are to have the opportunities you are given, to have the people in your life that make it worth living. This in turn results in reduced aggression and neglect towards peers leading to better relationships with your friends and family

Improves physical and emotional health

Studies from the Mayo Clinic Health System show that there is a direct link between gratitude and physical and mental health stating that it results in increased sleep, mood, and immunity, as well as reduced depression and anxiety. It can also shift one's negative mindset to recognizing the more positive aspects of your life. 

Improves self-confidence

An article published by Psychology Today found that gratitude increased athletes' self esteem which allowed them to play better in games. It also states that it reduces social comparisons. They found that the need to compare yourself to others decreased due to people who expressed gratitude to be happy for others achievements. 

You become more observant

Gratitude enhances your brain's ability to notice the positive aspects of your life leading to a more fulfilling and enjoyable day. You start to notice the little things and become more aware of your surroundings and positive experiences. 

I am grateful that I have the ability to better myself every day

With its numerous benefits and easy quick implementation it has the ability to transform your life to see a more positive outlook on the world. Whether it may be buying a journal, telling someone you are grateful to have them, or simply even saying one thing you are grateful for in the morning, gratitude should be something that must be practiced by everyone. A small step today can lead to a big change in the coming years. It’s no ones choice but yours to take this step, so you yourself can choose whether to keep the negative mindset in your head or make a small change to better yourself tomorrow. 

The choice is yours.