Gratitude

As we head into Thanksgiving, I feel it is important to reflect on what we are grateful for.  Sometimes, it is too easy to focus on i.e., obsess over, the negative. 

Sit down with pen and paper and begin to list the people in your life for which you are thankful. What comes to mind?  Can you specifically state why you have listed these people?  Now ask, what can you do for any of them. 

Taking the focus off of yourself and your own situation has a wonderful way of keeping things in perspective.  And really, what good is it to get angry, frustrated, discouraged over you current situation?  Does that help?  Do you feel better?  So, you have nothing to lose in trying this. 

Several people have mentioned a "Gratitude Journal" to me in the past year as a way to stay focused on the positive.  The idea is to record daily  what/who you are grateful for. Maybe it is time to begin keeping mine.

Our brains tend to first recall the trauma or negative experiences in our lives.  Reprogramming this thinking is said to be very benefitial.  

I've been thinking a lot about our economy, as I am sure you have too.  Things don't look good.  However, I am grateful for a loving husband, two healthy and active boys, all the friends in my life and of course, FAMILY.  No matter what happens: food lines, massive unemployment, or whatever "crash" needs to happen, these special people will be there for me.  I will be forced to reach out in ways I may never have been able to before based on my necessity to refocus on the positive. There's an old saying "that which does not kill us, makes us stronger".  Cheers, here's to strength!

Comments

[Career Sherpa]

Amen DD. I love the term correction. I agree with your thoughts 100%. I have been saying we need to "crash and crash hard" in order to really get back on track and value what is RIGHT.

[Deidre Dutcher]

These "crashes" in the market are often referred to as "corrections." I think it's a great word if we consider it. We were due for a major "correction." We need to correct our values - it was greed and excess that created this situation. I have been listening to NPR interview people who have stories about the Depression. They had little in the way of material things - even food - but found great value in family, friends, helping others, doing without and finding creative ways to survive, and appreciating little things. I think this time is here because we are so off track and need a "correction" to learn a lesson in gratitude.