The Power of Gratitude

I am grateful...

Almost all of my clients end up incorporating some type of gratitude practice into their lives. An attitude of gratitude literally shifts the brain and creates a focus on the positive. Once you start finding things to be grateful for every day, you start looking for what is positive and worth celebrating. Whether it be very small things like the beauty of a flower to big things like getting a job interview or reaching out and reconnecting with an important friend. Most people choose to write down things they are grateful for each day in a gratitude journal, but you can also just say it out loud, perhaps in the morning and before bed. The important part of this, is that you do it consistently; consistency is what really gives gratitude the power to change your life.

When I was in my 20s, I had some terrible negative self-talk. Most people can't believe that when I tell them now, because I am such a positive person. But back then, I was brutal to myself! I began with a book by Shad Helmstetter called What To Say When You Talk To Yourself. I then wrote positive affirmations on cards and would read them over and over every day. This is something you can add to the gratitude practice if negative self-talk is also a problem for you.

But what really changed my life was when I added in the gratitude practice. At the end of every day, I would write three things I was grateful for in a journal devoted just to gratitude. In the beginning, it was hard because I was so focused on what was wrong with me and my life. But then it got easier, and I noticed my whole attitude and self-talk starting to shift. I thought it was nothing less than a miracle. Such a simple technique and so empowering! I did have a guide during that time, who helped immensely to keep me on track. My workshops and individual sessions can provide that kind of guidance for you. I invite you to try a gratitude practice and let me know how it goes.

Charlene Ray Blog Categories: Inspiration, Life Transitions, Nature Therapy, Poetry, Soul Wisdom, Transformation