30 Days
What we all want…
Most of us come to Gratitude Buddies because we are looking for the same thing:
more JOY,
more HAPPINESS,
more CONTENTMENT.
If we were to write down a list of all the things we wanted to have or achieve in the world, the ultimate goal of having or achieving each one would be the same: more joy, more happiness, more contentment.
Sometimes reaching goals or acquiring things works, but sometimes it doesn’t. Very often humans adapt to new experiences, and fulfilling one desire just creates another.
If it’s true that life is a journey - not a destination - then gratitude sets us on the path to enjoy the journey. Consciously making an effort to focus on the things that are going right, the things that aren’t broken, the trains we didn’t miss, the water that is flowing, the technology that didn’t break, helps us cultivate a life that is more enjoyable and ultimately, more joyful.
Author Brene Brown talks about cultivating gratitude as a pathway to joy:
In the research, we learned that the most effective way to cultivate joy in our lives is to practice gratitude. The key word here is practice. It’s not just about feeling grateful, it’s about developing an observable practice. So often we think that joy makes us grateful, when in reality it’s gratitude that brings joy. The data supporting this finding was so persuasive that we started a daily gratitude practice in our home. We now go around the table every night before dinner and share one thing for which we are grateful.
Check out this video to hear Brene Brown say more.
Optional
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Meditation Options:
1) 3 Minute Meditation on JOY
2) 8 Minute General Gratitude Meditation
OR
If you are short on time, this 3 breath practice can be done after you write your list:
With eyes closed or lowered gaze:
Inhale for 5 counts
Hold for 5 counts
On the exhale, call to mind the 1st item on your list.
Repeat with the second and third items
You can also try to add a smile or hand on chest to this practice
Gratitude Message for your Buddy
After writing, scroll down to the GREEN button: ‘SEND TODAY’S MESSAGE.’
DO NOT click on the PINK button at the bottom right or you will lose what you have written.
Optional prompt
Day 4: Joy and Gratitude
Today you’re invited to reflect what on what brings you joy; and the relationship between joy and gratitude.