We are welcoming back to Rockton Musings! What better way to get them rolling again than starting out with Gratitude.
This time of the year always makes me pause to think a little more about what I’m thankful for. This year, I’m thankful for the gratitude practices, which help me find the good throughout the entire year, and not just during this season.
I don’t have to tell you that life is sometimes hard. Last year, my family got the hard news that not one, but two family members were diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. And as I reflect on the year, we all have lost friends and family members, and we all have struggled to navigate hard news (like mine) or new ‘normals.’
In the end, I truly believe that happiness, despite all the things ‘life,’ is a choice. And, it is a practice.
Here are a few ways I incorporate gratitude practices into my daily life, using this quote as a reminder-
“Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day.”
- Every morning I start by reflecting on the prior day and writing down 10 things from which I am grateful from the day before. I’m not going to lie, some days I have to dig deeper, and on those days I might just have to be grateful for something as simple as a sunny, fall day; warm tea; a roof over my head…. you get the point. The goal isn’t to find the most AMAZING things, but find the good even in the smallest of things. If I feel like challenging myself, I will try to list 1 to 5 things specifically around something I’m struggling with.
- Before sending my kids off to school, camp, or whatever other activitiy, I tell them: “Ask great questions and fill buckets.” This isn’t just a reminder for them, but for mom too.
- Every evening before bed I have my kids list at least three things they were grateful for.
- Joy bombs – This practice is more sporatic, but still fun. The kids and I – I’m not going to lie, more me than them – make baked goods or a meal and just drop it off at a friend’s or family member’s house. We typically try to make a game of it, seeing if you can drop it off before someone catches you. And there are times they are arguing about who gets to do “the drop.” Despite the chaos, it is fun to share our gratitude for others.
There are so many different ways to incorporate a gratitude practice in your life. It might simply be going out of your way to say “thank you” or sharing an appreciation with a co-worker, friend or partner. Mentally noticing something you grateful for.
I will leave you with this close quote and challenge –
“Everyone has a story that will break your heart. And, if you’re really paying attention, most of people have a story that will bring you to your knees.” ~ Brene Brown
I challenge you to find a gratitude practice, regardless of your story, that works for you and see how it impacts your days.
We here at Rockton are always grateful for our Partners, Customers. Our mission is to improve the lives and business success of our employees and customers. Thank you for offering us the opportunity to live out our mission.
