If you're like most people, the COVID-19 pandemic has thrown off your usual routine. Instead of focusing on what you miss or the uncertainty of what's ahead, which often causes anxiety, it can help to shift your attention to the present—especially if you're able to acknowledge things that you're grateful for in the moment.
Research shows that practicing gratitude:
- Boosts physical and mental health
- Enhances empathy and reduces aggression
- Improves sleep
- Increases self-esteem
- Opens doors to more relationships
- Reduces stress
Not sure how to adopt an attitude of gratitude? Start small.
Simply reflecting every night on little moments that made you smile throughout the day can lead to big shifts in your mindset. For example, did you particularly enjoy your morning cup of coffee? How did you feel when your dog greeted you after work? Did the kids finally pick up their toys without you asking? Some people choose to write these happy moments down in a notebook to remember and look back at them.
Regardless, if we use our thoughts wisely, it's possible to find things to be grateful for in this challenging season and improve our outlook on life.
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