Gratitude in Action: Easy Practices for Uncertainty

Have you noticed that some people can maintain a relatively positive attitude regardless of what’s happening around them right now? They can appreciate the good times but also seem to be able to focus on the positive in the face of so much uncertainty and a string of adverse events, which seem almost daily.

Fortunately, a positive attitude can be cultivated with a bit of practice. Although we are born with specific temperamental tendencies, the brain is a muscle, and you can strengthen your mind’s natural tendency toward optimism if you work at it. And fortunately, working on building your gratitude muscle can be enjoyable. But the benefits you gain would make it worth the effort even if it were a dull, difficult task.

In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Here’s how:

Recognize

Your job this month is a simple one. Choose one person in your world who makes you feel genuinely thankful for their part in your life. It can be a spouse, a friend, a family member, or a co-worker. It doesn’t matter who they are. What’s more important are the feelings of gratitude…