Why on Earth would you say thank you when your life feels like a mess? Well, believe it or not, if you want to become happier or improve your life, learning to be grateful is the first step. It might seem tough, especially given your current situation, but starting small can lead to incredible results. Is there a coffee shop you love? How about the weather today? Did you listen to your favorite music or feel appreciated by your friends? There are countless little things to be grateful for, and believe it or not, focusing on them will lead to even bigger reasons for gratitude down the road.
Practicing gratitude has been shown to boost self-confidence, patience, and improve relationships, among other benefits. But how can you actively cultivate gratitude to experience these positive effects? The 21-Day Gratitude Challenge is designed to shift your mindset, helping you develop a daily habit of recognizing and appreciating the good in your life. Over the past 20 years, research has consistently shown that people who practice gratitude experience fewer symptoms of illness, including depression, along with increased optimism, happiness, and stronger relationships. They also tend to be more generous and enjoy numerous other positive outcomes. Gratitude helps individuals focus on the brighter aspects of life and fosters stronger connections with others, which leads to greater hope, life satisfaction, and proactive behaviors toward helping others.
While it might feel awkward at first, don't worry! Here's a simple text from us to help you get started:
Dear [God/Universe/Heavenly Father],
I come to You with a heart full of gratitude.Thank You for the little things that brighten my day, even when life feels challenging.
I’m thankful for … (the warmth of the sun, the sound of my favorite song, the kindness of friends, and the simple joys that surround me).
Help me to see these blessings more clearly and guide me in nurturing a grateful heart.
And even if you are in need of some ideas to be grateful for, not to worry, here's a list of where to start:
- The warmth of the sun on your skin
- A roof over your head
- The smell of fresh coffee or tea in the morning
- A good conversation with a friend
- Clean water to drink
- A comfortable place to rest
- A favorite book or show to enjoy
- The beauty of nature around you
- The feeling of being loved or appreciated
- Moments of peace and quiet
- Access to the internet and technology
- A delicious meal, no matter how simple
- Your health, even if it’s not perfect
- Laughter, whether shared or heard
- The ability to breathe and experience life
To further inspire your gratitude practice, here's a deeply meaningful prayer by Mother Teresa:
” Lord when I am hungry, give me someone needing food.
When I am thirsty, send me someone needing a drink.
When I am cold, send me someone to warm.
When I am grieved, send me someone to console.
When my cross grows heavy let me carry another’s cross too.
When I am poor, lend me someone in need.
When I have no time, give me someone I can help a little while.
When I am humiliated, let me have someone to praise.
When I am disheartened, send me someone to cheer.
When I need understanding give me someone who needs mine.
When I need to be looked after give me someone to care for.
When I think only of myself draw my thoughts to another.”
– Blessed Mother Teresa
