Gratitude - Unlock a Joyful Life
Thanksgiving is quickly approaching here in the U.S. It’s a natural time to gather with family and show our gratitude and appreciation for each other. This week’s blog is about the 5 key benefits of developing a gratitude practice. It’s not just about saying: “Thanks!” It’s about realizing how much we have to be grateful for each and every day. Today, let's explore why expressing our thanks isn't just a polite gesture, but a transformative practice, especially for us creative souls who embrace my motto, "It's Never Too Late To Create®."
1. Enhances Mental Health
As artists, we often channel our emotions into our work, but sometimes, the canvas of our minds needs a splash of positivity. Gratitude does just that. It's like applying a bright color to a gloomy landscape, changing our perspective from scarcity to abundance. Studies suggest that gratitude can significantly decrease anxiety and depression. Think of it as your mental health's daily vitamin. Start with a simple gratitude journal; jot down three things you're thankful for each day. You'll be amazed at how this small practice can shift your outlook.
2. Strengthens Relationships
Gratitude can turn a mundane interaction into a meaningful connection. When we express appreciation, whether to a friend who lent an ear or a stranger who held the door, we're building bridges. In our community, where many of us are navigating life changes, and many of us feel a greater sense of loneliness, these connections are our lifelines. Gratitude isn't just about saying thank you; it's about recognizing the value of those around us, and in doing so, deepening our bonds.
3. Improves Physical Health
It's fascinating how our mental state can influence our physical well-being. Grateful people often report feeling healthier. They're more likely to exercise, eat better, and enjoy a good night's sleep. These habits are crucial for us, especially as we embrace our artistic journeys later in life. Each expression of gratitude is like a brushstroke that helps improve our sense of well being and fills each day with more joy.
4. Boosts Self-Esteem
In a world that often values youth over experience, it's easy to overlook our own achievements. Gratitude helps us celebrate our journey and the unique artistry we bring to the table. It reminds us that our worth isn't defined by external comparisons but by our own narrative. Gratitude can also really help when we fall into the comparison trap. If we see someone else’s work we admire, instead of feeling “less than”, we can embrace a sense of gratitude that here is a person or an art practice than can help us continue to move forward and deepen our skills.
5. Fosters Resilience
Gratitude is like the underpainting of resilience. It prepares us to handle stress and recover from life's setbacks. For instance, many of us are managing big transitions such as clearing out our parents home or organizing an estate sale or embarking on preparing a family home for the rental market. I’m very grateful to have a sister on the west coast because we can help each other with this work. Passing the baton back and forth as each phase of work is completed and we move onto the next.
As we head into this season of thanksgiving, let's remind ourselves of the transformative power of gratitude. It's not just about feeling good; it's about creating a ripple effect of positivity in our lives and the lives of those around us. And remember, It's Never Too Late To Create®, to start anew, to find joy in the little things.
P.S. I’ll be LIVE on Wednesday at noon pacific / 3pm eastern on my Facebook business page: Anne LaFollette Art and on my YouTube channel. Join me and let's talk more about this. I can’t wait to see you there.
What are you grateful for? Email me at anne@annelafollette.com and let me know. I look forward to hearing from you.
xo,
Anne
Curious about how to turn your doodles into dollars? Download my free ebook HERE.
Have fun and I’ll see you next week.
Remember,
It’s Never Too Late to Create®
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MEET ANNE
Hi…I’m Anne!
My creative inspiration comes from a lifetime of observation. I grew up in Paris on the Place St. Sulpice and walked to school through the Luxembourg gardens. And that was only the beginning… Learn more by watching the video on my About page.
