When I woke up this morning plagued with ideas buzzing in my mind and a “to do” list populating quicker than my social media feed, I had to press pause. Thinking of all the things I had to do started to make me feel overwhelmed and unprepared to face the day. I was tempted to get a head start and run as quickly as I could to start all the tasks lying before me. But before I got started, I chose to breath and take a moment to look at my life.
I’m breathing: check.
I’m healthy: check.
I have a roof over my head: check.
I have a beautiful daughter who is well: check.
I have running water and access to food: check.
I AM ALIVE: check.
And do you know what happened after me shifting my focus to acknowledge the gifts I have been given? My overwhelmed state of mind shifted to a more positive, grateful one.
Now I realize not everyone can check off the things I was able to acknowledge above. Although I bet if you are reading this, you at least have the first and last one checked off.
The point is there is always something in life to be grateful for even if the only thing to be grateful for is one more shot at this thing called life. Science has shown the practice of gratitude can create physiological benefits to improve mental health and well-being. Check out this article here if you want to read more.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to help shift your thinking and better approach the day ahead.
- What are the things I am grateful for today?
- Who am I most appreciative of in my life?
- What is something I wanted in the past and have in my life today?
- What or who makes me smile?
Today is a gift. Sometimes when life gets really crazy, it’s hard to remember that truth. The practice of gratitude can help you develop a sense of appreciation for what you have now instead of focusing on the things you don’t have or need.
So friend, wherever you are today, just know I am grateful for you. I hope the gift of today helps you draw closer to the dream you envision.
BE INSPIRED
What is the one thing you are most grateful for today? Comment below.
