My focus for 2022 has been to celebrate and acknowledge those who do a kind gesture for me; big or small. I love to give others my time or a gift just because; it is way better than receiving gifts. When netlogx announced the Gratitude Project for this year, I immediately knew I wanted to write at least two handwritten notes each week to family and friends acknowledging my gratitude to them for their lovely gesture. The art of writing a handwritten note has diminished due to technology. However, I have a friend and colleague who have been great examples to me of how special a handwritten note is when received in your mailbox. This gave me reasons to thank them for their act of kindness and/or letting them know why they are special to me.
As I review my list of reasons I wrote gratitude notes, it has given me many occasions to express gratitude for a wide variety of special actions: making dinner reservations, planning a trip, inviting me to a wine & cheese party and showing support to their family members. I have enjoyed on Mondays reviewing my previous week to reflect on the wonderful acts of kindness and gestures. Starting my day with this positive action also puts me in a great mindset to have a great day and week.
For the month of December, I made a list of people (near and far) I want to celebrate on Tuesdays. I am calling it Thankful Tuesdays! I have sent notes of thanks along with a Motivational Gratitude Quote Cards. They have been well received and I love sharing my gratitude with them.
Time and time again, I have read about how gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. It’s so easy to do and only takes your time. I encourage you to show gratitude to others whenever you can. The world you live in will be a better place because of showing gratitude to others!
