Lifestyle / Learning How To Be Thankful

Learning How To Be Thankful

Lifestyle Oct 09, 2014

by Yvonne Sinniah

Remember To Be Thankful As We Approach The Thanksgiving Holiday

Thanksgiving has its roots in Canadian history, tracing back to the 1578 voyage of Martin Frobisher, leaving England in search of the Northwest Passage. Years later, French settlers crossed the ocean, and arrived in Canada with explorer Samuel de Champlain: holding huge feasts of thanks and forming the Order of Good Cheer. Although the theme of Thanksgiving has changed with time, it has always been about reflection and gratitude.

I usually don’t take Thanksgiving very seriously, and like many Canadians, I look at it as a holiday where I can relax. This year, I want to reflect on what it really means, and how its goodness can be a reminder of how to live a more grateful life.
People with a strong sense of gratitude, love and appreciation in their lives don't necessarily have more than others; they aren't luckier. They simply recognize and see the potential in their lives. A 2003 study suggests that thankful people are generally happier and healthier.

Gratitude is a mindset that I believe sets the tone on how one receives the world. There are times we all get frustrated with life obligations, or with others; however it is when we are in a space of gratitude that we openly accept the gifts that life has to offer us. In honor of Thanksgiving approaching I've outlined some ways to help you shift into a gracious mindset, so you can experience more joy in your life.

Appreciate The Little Things

When we are in a state of gratefulness for the little things, we are able to truly enjoy the bigger things when they arrive. Take the time to notice what brightens your day and be thankful that it is in your life. This could be as little as your car starting that morning, or your child helping you with a home chore. Do this every day for a few minutes and your energy will begin shifting slowly, but surely, to a state of mindful appreciation.

Say Thank You

Whether it is family or friends, when you have a thought of gratefulness for something someone did, send a note or call them. Keep your act of thanks simple, a grand gesture can be overwhelming and may prevent follow through. If it has to start with a text, do that. Over time, it can grow to a card or a gift – follow your heart and be creative. Showing appreciation through human connection enables another to feel the positive effects of their love in action.

Cultivate The Habit Of Gratefulness

This can be in many forms, such as a gratitude journal, joining a gratitude challenge, or even writing down gratitude notes to yourself, and posting it in places you see. Make sure it is a practice that works for your lifestyle and implement it for 21 days to establish the habit of gratefulness.

Having an appreciation for the good things in life can be a game changer, and will be a key way in leading a happier and fulfilling life.

^{Featured Image courtesy of : hihealth.com}

Yvonne Sinniah

Author

Yvonne Sinniah (@YvonneSinniah) is a Relations Advisor and inspirational speaker focusing on helping individuals achieve success in personal and professional environments. focusing on helping individuals achieve success in personal and professional environments. She is on a mission to meet a nee...

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