Practice gratitude in the new year!
2020 has been a challenging year. Thankfully, it’s coming to an end. Hopefully, 2021 will be more positive, but in the meantime, practicing gratitude can help improve your outlook.
Here are eight ways to practice gratitude at home and work.
1. Practice gratitude by sending a handwritten note.
Handwritten notes are one of the best ways to show you care. Whether the note is to an old friend you haven’t seen in a while or is to congratulate your clients on closing on their new home, the recipient will appreciate it. Spending time writing a note will improve the relationships you have with your connections by building trust and familiarity.
Whoever you’re writing to will notice the time and effort you spent writing them a letter, and letter writing is also a great way to slow down and reflect on what you are grateful for.
"Practice gratitude by taking the time to send a coworker, friend, family member, or client a handwritten note saying 'thanks!'"
2. Say "thank you."
Gratitude is all about being grateful, and one of the easiest ways to be grateful is by saying, “thank you.” No matter how small the gesture, a thank you is always in order.
3. Celebrate your wins.
It’s important to celebrate your wins and accomplishments. When you close a deal, finish a new training, or start applying for a new certification, celebrate! Making strides in your professional life is certainly something to be thankful for.
4. Spend time with loved ones.
Catching up with relatives and visiting friends is a meaningful way to remind yourself about some of the more important things in life. That may not be possible right now, so consider scheduling weekly calls with family or catching up with friends over video chat.
"Meditation and mindfulness will help you practice gratitude by allowing you to recognize what you have to be thankful for."
5. Giving back to your community is a great way to practice gratitude.
Giving back to your community is a wonderful way to take stock of what you have to be thankful for while helping others at the same time.
Many local businesses and charities will organize toy, food, and clothing drives in the winter months. Do some research to find a cause that is meaningful for you and your family to donate to.
6. Practice mindfulness.
Try focusing on one task at a time and spending some time away from your phone. Go for a walk without any devices, or spend a few minutes in the morning setting your intention for the day.
You can also consider adding meditation into your daily routine! All of these activities can help you take a moment to slow down and refocus on what’s in front of you.
7. Practice gratitude through notetaking and journaling.
Start a gratitude journal. At the end of each day or week, write down everything you have to be thankful for. This practice will help you feel more gratitude overall and give you something to look back on when you feel stressed.
