Gratefully Yours: Ways to Incorporate Gratitude into your Life
Sometimes we have to reframe our minds to truly see what blessings are already with us. Whether it be our health, job, business, relationships, a sunny day, a cup of coffee, or tea- it’s a blessing. But we have to choose to be grateful. Traci, what do you mean? Well, we live in a culture that constantly seems to send the message that “we’re not enough” or “we don’t have enough.” We are enough. We’ve made it to this point in our life, and we can still choose how we move forward. Let's start by choosing to be grateful. As I discovered this practice, I found my belief in my abilities was accepted more, and my confidence increased.
3 ways that helped me build the habit of gratitude are as follows:
Gratitude Journaling Practice
Write 3 to 5 things for which you are grateful.
Focus on small things as well as big things.
Write out prayers or thoughts on what you expect for the outcome, like healing and encouragement.
Write out experiences that gave you peace or contentment.
2. Gratitude Talks/Vlogs/Lives
One way I have seen gratitude exercised more often is via videos such as reels and lives on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok! Take time to intentionally talk about or find a sound you can mimic or dance on what you’re thankful for in your life or what occurred in the day. Get all your frustrations out, but close with thanks.
Another great way gratitude is shown is within daily affirmations, or giving someone a shout-out on how they may be positively impacting you or your community.
Share how you incorporate gratitude in my community @melaninmogulmom!
3. Gratitude Board or Jar
Gratitude boards and jars are a great way to encourage others and yourself at home, at work, and within your business.
Gratitude boards may be easiest to use with a dry erase board with different colors to express all that you (and any coworkers, family, clients, or guests) can share on the board! It can be a great icebreaker and a pleasant reminder of how transformational gratitude can be in our lives.
Daily affirmations can be the header on your board weekly or monthly to facilitate the focus for that time. One of my favorite affirmations when working in teams is
“I AM HELPFUL.” It sets the tone for your project and the manner you desire to conduct business.
Gratitude Jars or boxes only require small pieces of brightly colored paper. Fold each piece of paper and place it in the jar or box. You can go back to that jar or box anytime you want to reflect on the good.
When we make space and time to reflect on what we have now in this life, more good things will come because we’re looking for the good.
“Be the good in your life. Be grateful for everything.”
