In our modern world, developing and practicing constructive social and emotional skills is more important than ever. Combining action and mindfulness, you create a more positive environment and future for yourself and your family. Did you know that being thankful can improve your health and build solid relationships?
November is the perfect time to express gratitude. This festive time of year brings high expectations for cozy family gatherings. However, for some, holidays are stressful and can even be affected by sadness, depression, or anxiety. Taking the time to express appreciation helps people feel uplifting emotions and elevate spirits. Acknowledging the goodness in life is a helpful way to deal with adversity.
Thankfulness can be applied to past experiences through fond memories. It can pertain to the here and now and not taking the blessings in life for granted as well as the future. A hopeful and optimistic outlook cultivates confidence, compassion, and an overall sense of well-being. Rather than focusing on the desire for material possessions, consider the daily, caring, and supportive interactions with friends and family, no matter how big or small.
Adults and children alike benefit from writing down the good things in life. With just five minutes, making a quick note of one constructive thought adds up positives that outweigh the negatives. Expressing appreciation through a spoken thank you show gratitude for the big and little things others do for us. Looking for the best in everyone brings out the best in you. Inspiring gratitude with large or small acts of compassion, kindness, and attentiveness inspire positive emotions within you as well as the recipient.
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, take a moment to count your blessings. Encourage children to appreciate what they have instead of asking for something new to achieve happiness. Let your child pick a number from one to five and then express that many positive memories, experiences, thoughts, deeds, or good fortunes. Whatever you decide to do, remember there is so much to be thankful for this year!
