Every day, bad news fills our newsfeed. From pandemics and wars to inflation and heated political dialogue, a never-ending stream of stressors can do a number on your head and heart.
No matter where you turn—TV, social media, the Internet—there’s no escape.
Let’s not forget the difficulties we face in our daily lives—struggles in our relationships and careers, worries over finances, and concerns over our health and safety. These all have an immeasurable impact on mental (and physical) health.
So how is it possible to be grateful when it seems like the world is crumbling around us? How can we find reasons to celebrate and feel abundant when there are so many reasons to feel the opposite?
Here are five steps you can take to practice gratitude daily:
We often overlook the things that are part of our daily existence. It’s a beautiful sunny day; you can work out and care for your body; people love you. It’s easy to take these things for granted. By appreciating them, you will experience gratitude regardless of your circumstances.
Note your progress in your life.
It’s easy to dismiss our progress in our own lives—we tend to consider parts of our growth insignificant. Take a moment to consider where you have been versus where you are now. Look at the changes you have made to make your life better—reflect on these moments and record them so that you have an ongoing list reminding you.
Be in service to someone else.
Nothing helps with feelings of gratitude more than taking the time to help someone who is suffering. It redirects your mind from your own problems as you focus on giving to someone else. It enables you to appreciate and be grateful for your current life season.
Learn how to balance wants versus haves.
For everything you desire, write down something you once wanted that you now have. Maybe it’s a car, a beautiful home, a great partner, kids, or a fulfilling career. At one time, you dreamed of having something that you now have. When we constantly look at what we don’t have and want, it puts us in a state of lack and scarcity. By giving attention to what we currently have and what we want in the future, we experience a state of abundance. Wanting from a state of abundance and gratitude will position you to receive and continue to feel gratitude.
Every moment in our lives, there is an opportunity to succumb to the overwhelming emotions bad news and circumstances bring. Finding gratitude is a practice that must be intentional. At the end of each day, make it a habit to write down three things you are grateful for. When you wake up, review those things to set the tone for your day and put yourself into a state of gratitude.
Dr. Krystal Conner is a master life coach, host of the Dangerous Woman podcast, and a regular media expert who is passionate about helping people make simple shifts that can lead to big transformations.
Up next, be the first to know our weekly content and sign up for our Poosh newsletter.
