Intentional gratitude practices can have a multitude of benefits … when we do them!
The “Grati-Tools” are suggestions for ways to increase awareness of our blessings and privileges, (the ones that already exist), resulting in a multitude of potential benefits – emotionally, behaviorally, neurologically, physiologically, etc.
Your mileage may vary, but the likelihood of benefit is high.
Intentional gratitude practices – “Grati-Tools” – some possible results:
* experiencing more positive feelings, moods, and emotions associated with gratitude.
* more sincere expressions of gratitude, appreciation, thankfulness.
* gaining new perspectives that could catalyze improvements in multiple areas of life.
* literally increasing happiness and well-being; short and long term.
Grati-Tool #1: Gratitude For Those Who Touched My Life
List ten people (or animal companions) from your past or present, who have positively contributed to your life. Those you love, who’ve helped you in some way, mentors, teachers … those who deserve your thanks and appreciation. Once a week, read your list and add ten more names. Think about what you would write to them in a thank-you note. And, maybe … write that note!
Some variations:
• Make an ongoing list of your best teachers, professors, mentors, coaches, advisors.
• Make an ongoing list of people you love and people you’ve ever loved,
people who love you, and people who’ve ever loved you.
• Make an ongoing list of people whom you’ve forgiven, and people you’d like to forgive.
• Make an ongoing list of musicians, writers, poets and artists who’ve inspired you.
• Make an ongoing list of businesspeople, social activists, change agents and heroes who’ve inspired you.
Choose to experiment with the one or the ones you like most.
Revisit and add to them, as you’d like to. Over time, you’ll remember more!
Have fun as you gain some new perspectives!
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