What an Attitude of Gratitude Can Mean for the Holiday Season
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As Thanksgiving and many other holidays are coming up, appreciating the people we love and all the things we have in our lives goes a long way. An attitude of gratitude is a great way to train your mind to focus on and appreciate all the aspects of your life. It is about celebrating and being thankful for even the smallest aspects or achievements.
The concept of attitude of gratitude has been linked to elevated levels of happiness and a decrease in depression levels. An attitude of gratitude allows for you get some perspective on the things going on your life and can allow you to reframe any issues or situations you may be struggling with.
Ways to Exercise and Develop your Attitude of Gratitude
Developing an attitude of gratitude takes time and work, but it can benefit and strengthen your mental health and your relationships. Here are some simple strategies and steps that can be taken to help you develop an attitude of gratitude:
- Keep a gratitude journal (listing the things, no matter the size, that make you happy or you are grateful for)
- Express your gratitude (calling a loved one or someone who has made a difference in your life and express your thankfulness)
- Meditation (reflecting and focusing on what you are grateful for in a non-distracting setting)
- Reflect on lessons that can be learned from stressful or negative experiences, instead of just the negative aspects of the situations
Stress of the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a joyful time for many of us, but it can cause extra stress for others. The holiday season can be busy, with guests and high levels of travel. Many people maybe grieving loved ones during this time and others may feel lonely or isolated.
“Honor yourself so that you can honor others. When feeling overwhelmed take a walk, participate in exercise, call a friend, reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while, volunteer, take some time to step out of the environment. Always remember if I don’t take care of me then I am giving you what is left of me.”
Jean Gray, Behavioral Health Therapist at Health Services of North Texas
It is important to be realistic with the responsibilities you take on and your expectations for the holiday season. Being present in the moment and enjoying the time you have with your loved ones can allow you to appreciate the holiday season more. Reach out to others and seek out community if you are felling lonely or isolated.
We at Health Services of North Texas hope that you can find time for yourself and your loved ones this holiday season.
Extra Resources:
- https://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/pages/the-attitude-of-gratitude.aspx
- https://www.lifehack.org/867535/attitude-of-gratitude
- https://www.habitsofmindinstitute.org/with-an-attitude-of-gratitude/