Count Your Blessings! Developing a Genuine Attitude of Gratitude

In our world today it's easy to feel totally stressed, overwhelmed and on edge. A good way to deal with this is to practice gratitude — by literally becoming aware of the many blessings we have. Here are some pointers to get you moving in the right direction.

1. Become Aware of the Good Things in Your Life

What are you taking for granted? A few years ago, I ran into a young cashier who looked to be in his early 20's. He casually asked me if I had any plans for the weekend. I replied that I was just doing laundry, cleaning, and yard work. He looked at me and said, "I'd kill to have a day to get all those things done." I realized he was probably juggling several jobs. I said a quick prayer for him and thanked God that I did have time to get regular tasks done. It really changed my perspective!

2. Shift Your Focus

Whatever we focus on shapes how we think, act and feel. If we focus on our problems, we begin to feel negative, out of control and anxious. Once God points out the good things in your life, shift your focus to those. Thank Him for giving them to you. Realize how blessed you are and keep coming back to those blessings.

3. Record Your Gratitude

Put pen to paper and keep a record of the things you're thankful for. Making a record of things we appreciate helps us create "specific gratitude" rather than just general gratitude. It doesn't have to be big things. Here are a few from my list:

• The warmer weather.
• Being able to walk outside this morning.
• Enjoying watching my dog run around the backyard.
• Having healthy food in my refrigerator and pantry.
• Being blessed with amazing friends and family.
• Having an awesome church to go to in person.

4. Let People Know You Appreciate Them

Expressing appreciation has a calming, uplifting effect on the person being thanked — and on you. Tell your waiter they did a great job. Tell people you care about that you love them. Life is uncertain — make sure people know how much they mean to you.

5. Pay It Forward

Since God has blessed us so abundantly, the least we can do is spread the love around. As Luke 12:48 reminds us: "To whom much is given, much is required." Pray for others. Be willing to be inconvenienced. Tithe regularly. Give generously of your time, attention, and resources.

Even if you don't typically have an attitude of gratitude, you can teach yourself to acquire one. It involves deliberate changes and being aware of what you're telling yourself — but it can be done. And cultivating a thankful heart is completely worth the time and effort involved!