Embrace an Attitude of Gratitude

Thank you.

These two little words are easy to say, but they bring many powerful benefits into our lives. When you show true gratitude to someone, you are doing much more than being polite — you are creating a strong connection with that person (even if it’s just for a moment), and you are giving their well-being a boost. You may be surprised to learn, you’re also giving your own well-being a boost.

Cultivating an attitude of gratitude heightens your happiness. Studies show that you can increase your happiness by up to 10% simply by writing down what you’re grateful for. If you get into this habit, your happiness will gradually increase over time and depressive symptoms will decrease.

Vitamin G is good for your body! Gratitude is like a vitamin: When you get a daily dose, you’ll start to see improvements in your physical health. Studies show that practicing gratitude can boost your immune system and improve your physical health.

Gratitude helps foster better relationships. Showing gratitude makes others feel valued and helps instill a sense of trust between the giver and the receiver. Imagine how wonderful your professional and personal relationships would be if you took a moment every day to spread gratitude.

Here are 5 simple ways to regularly infuse gratitude into your busy schedule:

1. Recognize your colleagues around the world for their professional and personal achievements by sending them kudos.
2. Send a handwritten thank-you note to a colleague, loved one or community leader (e.g., essential worker) each month.
3. Start a gratitude journal for yourself and document what you’re grateful for each day.
4. Spread gratitude and appreciation at home by starting a gratitude jar with your family.
5. Practice mindfulness by being present in the moment so that you can discover, enjoy and be grateful for life’s pleasures.

Make gratitude a habit and start reaping its many benefits by adding these actions to your calendar as a recurring reminder and blocking 15 minutes every week (or a few times a month) to practice your new habit.