One of the most important rituals that I have developed over time is my practice of gratitude. I start my morning by writing down the three things that I am grateful for and I do the same thing in the evening.
If you only add one new habit to your routine this year, it must be a gratitude practice, it’s changed my life.
Seven months ago, I made a big, hairy and audacious decision and walked away from all that I knew to be certain. And fear was right by my side, the whole time. I did it anyway. I summoned up all my courage and took the leap.
I now live my life with intention, listening with my heart and making choices with no regrets. My coach says that “Being an entrepreneur is the most intense form of personal development”, and that is so true.
My gratitude practice has been my constant and loving support and it has taught me so much. I’d like to share with you what I’ve learned, and encourage you to start your own practice.
What Gratitude Has Taught Me
The daily practice of gratitude has provided so much clarity for me in my life around what’s important and what brings me joy. It’s opened up the small and insular world that I had been managing my life in.
Knowing what I am grateful for has allowed me to embrace the abundant opportunities that have come my way.
I’m thankful for the now toned muscles of tenacity and resiliency that I am frequently using.
I understand the need for compassion and connection with others, and the importance of having an open mind. I’m grateful for possibility and the freedom to start my day by asking myself “What if…”
It’s not that being grateful is a skill or something that you have to learn to do, but what I know for sure, is that not practicing gratitude is like riding a bike with only one wheel. It can be done, but it takes so much longer to find your balance.
I’ve learned that everything doesn’t have to be perfect, and that when I make a mistake, I get the chance to learn from it, and start all over again, without judgement or criticism.
And what’s more, “done is better than perfect.”
I’ve learned how important it is to keep learning, and to stay curious, because if you don’t pour back into yourself, you won’t have anything to give to others. I’ve learned that what I give my attention to grows and prospers.
So I encourage you, add a slot in your calendar for daily gratitude and spend a few minutes each day writing down what you are most grateful for and see the profound impact this simple exercise has on your life.
Let’s kick this off your gratitude practice right now, share with me in the comments what you are most grateful for in this moment.