As discussed in our previous posts, acts of kindness can improve happiness. Do you know that gratitude can also boost our happiness? It's another wonderful habit we can form!
What is gratitude?
Gratitude is being grateful and showing appreciation for the kindness we receive. It is a warm feeling of thankfulness. By being grateful, not only are we being polite, we can even boost our happiness!
How can gratitude boost our happiness?
According to Positive Psychology Research, gratitude can improve our happiness. Gratitude makes us see the goodness in our lives and appreciate what we have instead of always reaching out for something to make us happier. Being thankful helps us feel more positive emotions, treasure our good experiences and strengthen our relationships. It can make us feel more loved and resilient. Studies show that if we express gratitude, our happiness can be boosted by 25%! 25% is a lot!! When we have a heartfelt appreciation for our blessings, our love tank, and happiness tank will fill up!
Two psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons from US Davis and Dr. Michael E. McCullough from the University of Miami have conducted one study on gratitude and happiness. They split the volunteers into three groups. The first group needed to write down things they were grateful for. A second group wrote about daily complaints in life, and the third wrote about events that had a positive or negative effect on them. After ten weeks, the first group wrote about gratitude felt more optimistic and felt better about their lives, and healthier!
So let's all start to be a "Grateful heart" habit!!
How can we show gratitude?
There are a few simple ways we can show our gratitude and make gratitude a habit
Write a thank-you note
Pray
Thank someone mentally
Meditate
Keep a gratitude journal
Count your blessings
Be kind, be grateful & be happy!
Have a wonderful week!
Keaton & Kenson
Publishing, Harvard Health. "Giving Thanks Can Make You Happier." Harvard Health, www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier.
"The Science and Research on Gratitude and Happiness." PositivePsychology.com, 4 Dec. 2020, positivepsychology.com/gratitude-happiness-research/.
Bryan Robinson, Ph.D. "The Power Of Gratitude And How It Raises Your Happiness Level." Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 18 Nov. 2019, www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrobinson/2019/11/18/the-power-of-gratitude-and-how-it-raises-your-happiness-level/?sh=1ef6a7a5373e.
