Have you ever encountered someone who seems to complain endlessly? No matter what happens in their life, they never appear happy. Have you ever found yourself in that same place? Life can feel like a relentless struggle, leaving you feeling defeated.

A few years back, I was caught in that cycle. I woke up every morning with a sour attitude, unable to appreciate the good around me. Constantly comparing myself to others only deepened my negativity, making me irritable and joyless. I didn’t like the person I had become, and I knew I needed to change.

That’s when I decided to start a small gratitude routine. What began as a simple practice gradually evolved into a daily habit. Over time, my gratitude expanded, and I rediscovered my happiness. I felt empowered to face whatever life threw my way.

Here’s how I initiated my gratitude journey:

Choose a Time: Pick a specific time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for, whether it’s in the morning or before bed.

Keep a Journal: Write down three to five things you’re grateful for each day. This can be as simple as a warm cup of coffee or a kind word from a friend.

Be Specific: Instead of general statements, focus on specific moments or experiences. For example, “I’m grateful for the beautiful sunset I saw today.”

Mix It Up: Include different aspects of your life—people, experiences, achievements, or even challenges that taught you something.

Visual Reminders: Place reminders around your space, like sticky notes or inspirational quotes, to prompt you to think of things you’re grateful for throughout the day.

Share Your Gratitude: Consider sharing your gratitude with others. This could be through a conversation, a note, or a message. It can deepen your connections.

Practice Mindfulness: Take a moment to really feel your gratitude. Close your eyes and reflect on why you’re grateful for each item on your list.

Be Consistent: Try to stick with your practice daily. Consistency helps it become a natural part of your routine.

Review Your Progress: Periodically look back at your entries. This can remind you of positive moments and help cultivate a more optimistic outlook.

Be Patient: Developing a gratitude practice is a journey. Allow yourself to grow into it, and don’t worry about perfection.

Enjoy the process!

~Shay