Gratefulness

Gratitude changes everything. It shapes our life perspective,  defines what is important to us and essentially gives meaning to this finite life.

Gratitude is the silent knowing that everything in life is a borrowed gift. Hence nothing is taken for granted or expected.

When someone appreciates seeing the sun rise instead of complaining that they have to be up early – that’s gratefulness;

when after a long workday, someone cherishes a moment of silence followed by a simple meal – that’s gratefulness;

and, when a friend despite her busy work schedule makes time for lunch to meet with and listen to her boon companion who is going through a hard time -that’s compassion which is  inspired by gratitude.  

Being grateful for all the blessings we have including people, health, resources and opportunities fosters humbleness and awareness that kindness and gracefulness are not optional but a requirement.

After having meet clients, couples, patients and executives in therapy, assessment and  coaching sessions and in board rooms for over two decades,  those who embrace an attitude of gratitude or learned to do so have better relationships, higher job satisfaction, are more content and able to adapt, are more balanced partners and  have better relationships in their lives.

Truth be told, we cannot choose all denominators or cards we hold in our hands but we can make one important decision: To be grateful for the hand that we have been dealt. Gratefulness leads to increased humbleness, kindness and tolerance.

There is no perfect life, no perfect partner. However, there is the choice of gratitude that can help us to navigate life in a more rewarding and gentle way.

And as we cannot change anybody else but ourselves we may well become a living proof and example for others that gratitude and generosity are age changers and do go a long way.