I’ve been making a conscious effort to practice gratitude daily for the past few months. I feel it’s making a difference.
It’s difficult to have negative thoughts about anything when I’m constantly looking for ways to be grateful. It changes how I view the events that happen in my day. Sure, sh*t happens, but it doesn’t become the focus if I don’t dwell on it.
I’ve noticed it most in my work. Three months ago, I was giving thanks (to God, the Universe, whomever is listening) for allowing me to save enough money that I could make the switch from full-time work to freelance. I gave thanks when I signed my first contract. I gave thanks whenever someone in my network wanted to talk to me about work. I gave thanks when my second contract was signed. There seemed to be a direct correlation between the amount of gratitude I gave and the amount of work that found me. Now, I’m nearly at the point where I’m going to have to turn down work – and for that, I am truly grateful!
For the past few years, I’ve felt like I was on the cusp of something wonderful. I believe I’ve found it. I have work I love and can do from anywhere in the world as long as I have an internet connection. My work allows me flexibility in my day. For me, this means I work long hours while Martin is away so I can have more free time when he’s home. It allows me to go shopping during non-peak hours (I hate shopping, so this is a huge “plus” for me). If I want to do a noon workout rather than evening, I can schedule meetings around it. I can take an afternoon off to enjoy a beautiful winter day and explore the mountains that are nearby.
The more thankful I feel, the more abundance I notice. There are days it feels like it’s overflowing. It brings a sense of a calm…contentment. There’s a peacefulness to my life that didn’t used to exist. I have a strong sense that everything is going to work out and I don’t worry or fret as much.
I encourage everyone to find moments of daily gratitude. Some days, it’s as small as being thankful for a green light in traffic. It’s every time my adult son leaves the house and gets home safely. It’s time spent with people who are important to me. It’s time to myself.
Take a few moments and recognize it. Acknowledge it.
What are you grateful for today?