Attitude of gratitude

"Attitude of gratitude" isn't just a catchy phrase — it's a mindset that impacts all aspects of a person's being and affects those who surround that person.

As Thanksgiving dinner is about to be plated and families and friends gather 'round the turkey and trimmings, many start thinking about the things and people for which they are thankful.

This is a beloved tradition of Thanksgiving: To give thanks. It's a special time to spend with family, watch football, indulge in comforting foods and remember just how lucky some of us have it.

The practice of being thankful and maintaining that attitude of gratitude doesn't have to exist only during the holiday season. While it keeps the holidays bright, it can serve as a beacon of positivity in any season.

According to positivepsychology.com, simply expressing gratitude comes with many benefits.

For individuals, those benefits include increased happiness, positive mood, more satisfaction with life, less materialism, lower chance of burnout, better physical health, better sleep and less fatigue, lower levels of cellular inflammation, greater resiliency and an increased development of patience, humility and wisdom.

In group settings, grateful hearts reap the joys of tighter relationships, a stronger sense of benevolence and altruism and even work life feels better, with increased employee effectiveness and job satisfaction. 

An appreciation mindset begins with "thank you," but continues in how a person approaches life, handles different situations and interacts with others.

"Robert Emmons (2010), the preeminent scholar in this field, makes the argument that gratitude allows a person to celebrate the present, block toxic emotions (envy, resentment, regret, depression), be more stress-resilient and strengthen social ties and self-worth; gratitude research is on-going by experts worldwide," according to the positivepsychology.com article.

It goes beyond attitude and mentality — it's neuroscience.

In another Positive Psychology article, Dr. Melissa Madeson shares these findings:

 • The neuroscience of gratitude shows it activates brain regions associated with reward, enhancing feelings of contentment and emotional wellbeing.

• Regular practice of gratitude can lead to long-term positive changes in the brain, supporting mental health and resilience.

• Simple exercises like keeping a gratitude journal can improve mood, increase empathy and strengthen social bonds.

Some gratitude exercises that promote brain-boosting benefits include self-appreciation, writing thank-you letters to people who've made positive impacts on one's life (which is a win-win for the giver and receiver) and practicing gratitude meditation and exercises.

That all-over glow and sparkle of the holidays is steeped in joy and gratitude for togetherness, for thoughtful gifts, for delicious meals and for everything wonderful that transpires from November through January.

It wouldn't be such a bad thing if gratefulness and kindness stretched a little further to make life a bit brighter the whole year through.