10 Ways to Cultivate Gratitude

Cultivating an “attitude of gratitude” has been linked to better health, sounder sleep, less anxiety.

Gratitude is a way for people to appreciate what they have instead of always reaching for something new in the hopes it will make them happier, or thinking they can't feel satisfied until every physical and material need is met. Gratitude helps people refocus on what they have instead of what they lack. And, although it may feel contrived at first, this mental state grows stronger with use and practice. Here are some ways to cultivate gratitude on a regular basis.

• Count Your Blessings: List, say, or think about the various people, things, situations, ideas, etc that you appreciate.

• Write a Hand-Written Thank You Notes: When the opportunity rises, take time to write a thank you note to express appreciation.

• Keep a Gratitude Journal: Start by listing five things, once a week, you are grateful for in your life.

• Pray: Prayer is a great way to develop a grateful approach to life.

• Meditate: Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. Although people often focus on a word or phrase (such as "peace"), it is also possible to focus on what you're grateful for (the warmth of the sun, a pleasant sound, etc.).

• Share a specific example of something they did for you and how it made a difference in your life.Flowers. Give flowers to someone special in your life, for no reason.Cards. Send out hand-written birthday cards.

• Compliments. Everyday look in the mirror and give a compliment of gratitude to yourselfSay Thank You. Make a point to say thank you to people who serve you such as: cashiers, waitresses/waiters, store clerks, etc.