How Gratitude Can Take the Sting Out of the Struggle

It is not joy that makes us grateful. It is gratitude that makes us joyful. ~ Unknown

I often list a few things I’m grateful for in my journal. 

It helps me feel better about my day and makes me feel happier.

Of course, there are days when I miss it. Yet, writing in a journal is a tool that can help unload the mind chatter that can keep a person feeling anxious.

Sometimes when we are struggling, we have to be reminded to be grateful. It is so easy to get caught up in the chaos of others around us.

We don’t take time to notice how we are growing because of the experience.

When you look for something positive, you will feel less stressed and calmer even when things are not going well. Learn to look for positive moments even when family members, such as our sons or daughters, make poor choices.

What I’ve realized is that gratitude is at the core of our happiness.

You feel happier when you are grateful for what you have. Every day that you train your mind to look for something encouraging, a shift slowly evolves. You will no longer be caught up in the negative cycle of what might be going on around you.

It will be easier to let go of being in victim mode, and you will suffer less. 

When we have moments of crisis in our life, it is essential to acknowledge the sorrow and pain. It is also necessary to work through the process and allow something beautiful to evolve.

Gratitude can turn anger into calm, despair into joy, doubt into hope, resentment into compassion, frustration into acceptance, shame into empowerment.

It gives you the strength to bloom and grow once again.

Here are some ways to feel gratitude today:

Life is a gift.

Even if you feel confused or troubled, know that every event in your life can offer a gift. Look at every life experience with eyes of gratitude. It can be an opportunity to grow and start anew. You have weathered the storm and now have the chance to appreciate your newfound strength.

Growth can occur when we are struggling.

Although we want life to roll along peacefully, there will always be bumps in the road. The Chinese word for crisis is written with two brush strokes. The first represents danger, and the second represents an opportunity. Grab that opportunity for growth and change your life for the better.  

Have gratitude for the miracles that have touched your life. 

Sometimes when we are struggling, we forget. Now is an excellent time to remind ourselves to be thankful for the little things in life that bring daily beauty and joy. I appreciate the many gifts of nature that surround you. Be grateful for the people who continue to thrive and are there for you every day.

Express your gratitude when others do something for you.

That simple act can make a difference in someone else’s life. Take a moment out of your day to say thank you. It costs little and will make someone’s life a little brighter. Acknowledge those close to you, and tell them often how much you appreciate and love them. Reach out and spread the love.

Be grateful for all the people in your life. 

I’m grateful for my family and my friends. Some are online, many I’ve known for years. They bring me great blessings and joy.  

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thank you to YOU for being a loyal reader. I started my website in 2010, and some of you have been with me that long!  

I’m grateful for our online connection, whether you’ve been here for a few weeks, months, or years.

You have given me the gift of this incredible journey!

Here is a lovely poem by Joanna Fuchs about being thankful for someone in your life:

I’m Thankful for You