Grateful people are happier, healthier, and nicer to be around. Research has shown that thanking others and explaining why we’re grateful is one of the most powerful ways things you can do.
What are the benefits of expressing gratitude?
- It builds and strengthens relationships. When others know we need them, our relationships deepen.
- It improves health. Gratitude positively impacts our health by reducing stress.
- It makes us nicer to be around. We can all do with a little more social capital; expressing gratitude builds those networks of relationships.
- It creates optimism. Gratitude shines a spotlight on things we have, rather than drawing attention to what we lack. This fosters a culture of abundance within us, making us optimistic about the future.
- It reduces anger. A practice of gratitude makes us more open to receiving negative feedback and strengthens us over time.
- It causes us to be more people-centered. Gratitude shifts attention away from ourselves and directs it to others.
- It eliminates negative emotions. With a focus on positive emotions, room for negative thoughts becomes smaller.
- It feels good. When we express gratitude, it helps our meed and allows us to feel better about our circumstances and ourselves.
Give yourself the gift and power of gratitude. It will foster stronger relationships, and help you live happier. What are some of the ways that you express gratitude in your life?
“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.” —Zig Ziglar