-
Step 1
Keep a "Book of Abundance," in which you write down 10 things every day for which you are thankful. Choose an attractive, bound journal for this effort to show the honor you give the practice of expressing gratitude.
-
Step 2
Collect positive affirmations and quotes about being thankful and keep them handy in a fancy little box to read and share with family and friends. Review the list on those occasions when you start to forget to be grateful.
-
Step 3
Find a story and photo about someone with fewer gifts, abilities or opportunities than yourself who is nonetheless achieving much satisfaction in his or her life. Humbly contemplate how grateful you feel to be healthy and able and never forget your life could change in an instant.
-
Step 4
Sign up to volunteer in your community. Helping those less fortunate than yourself experience a kinder life is the best way to show gratitude for the gifts and abilities you possess.
-
Step 5
Send thank you notes when people give you gifts, however small. Such a note is also appropriate when you spend an evening or a night or two at someone's house, even if they are relatives. Make "Thank you" a common phrase in your vocabulary.
-
Step 6
Understand that what we pay the most attention to in our lives is what we get more of in our lives. Look for the positive stories in the newspapers, read uplifting books, notice the beautiful fall leaves and tune in to the birds singing. You don't have to be oblivious to the harshness of life, but you can focus on being grateful for the good parts.
