Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful, readiness to show appreciation and to return kindness. We are all capable of being grateful, but we are also all human and getting frustrated or feeling down when things are not going well are normal parts of being human, whether it’s triggered by things internally or externally.
When you are feeling down, you are not your best self which means your self care and how you show up towards others is at risk. How often when you’re in a negative state do you find that you’re less patient, dismissive of others, ungrateful, or easily disappointed? Instead of being stuck in a negative mindset, try using these 3 mantras to remind yourself to be grateful and bring yourself into a positive state:
- “No matter how bad you think you have it, someone is always willing to trade places with you in a heartbeat.”
- “I get to” vs. “I have to.”
- “Everything that happens is equal parts good and bad.”
These mantras will help you to seek meaning, keep an open mind, and remind yourself that overcoming hardship comes down to your mindset. Being grateful helps to rise above negativity and hard times.
Here are two more things you can do to help you break away from a negative mindset and be more grateful:
- Thank someone for something you are truly grateful for. It can be something as simple as appreciation for who they are and the support they provide you. The most important thing is it must be truly genuine, and they need to feel that appreciation from you.
- Find safe spaces to have real conversations. It could be with family, close friends, or coaches you trust. I truly believe the first step to having a real conversation is to have a safe space to let your guard down to talk about what’s on your mind and how you feel.
Be grateful and be your best self as much as you can be!