How to Grow an Attitude of Gratitude
Life can be extremely hard for too many families and kids. At the same time, no matter how challenging the circumstances around us may be, intentionally growing an attitude of gratitude can make a positive difference not only in our lives, but also in the lives of kids we are raising, coaching, teaching, and leading.
You may know the mission of Adventures with Divot & Swish™️ is focused on helping kids become more physically active and learning life skills thought sport. But we also know that the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of kids (and adults) are intertwined. With that in mind (pun intended), let’s explore the emotion of gratitude, its benefits, and how we can make a conscious choice to grow it.
What is gratitude?
Gratitude is an emotional state and trait that can be intentionally cultivated through a practice of “counting one’s blessings” or “being grateful.”
What are the health benefits of gratitude?
The positive impact of gratitude on mental and emotional health has been consistently demonstrated and includes increased happiness and resilience, as well as decreased depression and aggression. And, if that is not enough motivation to practice gratitude, there is some research linking ongoing gratitude to physical benefits such as better sleep and good heart health.
How can you grow your attitude of gratitude?
From the perspective of helping kids and teens, here are three, simple tips that we can choose to take action on today
1. SAY IT: Look in the mirror each morning when you are getting ready for your day and state three characteristics you appreciate about yourself and/or recent experiences or accomplishments you have enjoyed.
2. INK IT: Write-down three things you are thankful for each night before you go to sleep (aka a Gratitude Journal).
3. SHARE IT: Text, email, call, or tell others in your world why you are grateful for them and how they have positively impacted your life.
I encourage you to implement at least one of these tips and take your own attitude of gratitude to the next level. When we think our road is hard, we can help keep things in perspective by recalling the quote of Mahatma Gandhi: “I cried because I had no shoes, then I met a man who had no feet.”
As one of my mentor’s consistently reminds me, “we can’t give away what we don’t possess.” So, grow your own attitude of gratitude first, and then plant those seeds of gratitude in the lives of kids who are in your world.
