Gratitude
Gratitude is the Number One Ingredient in Happiness. If you’re not grateful, it’s impossible to be happy.
Finding pleasure in small things makes all the difference, because the effect is cumulative. It’s easy to take day-to-day experiences for granted, but doing so is to miss out on the greatest opportunities for appreciation. A smile, a thank you, a door opened, a compliment, a favor, an unexpected gesture of kindness; these things and more create countless opportunities to express gratitude.
Gratitude is not a state of entitlement; it’s a posture of appreciation. Actions mean more when they’re not expected and when we know that they’re optional. When someone does something for you simply because they want to, but not because they must, the meaning is genuine.
Sadly, I’ve witnessed what happens when people miss the positive intent of others and instead find something to complain about as a result of something that was done for or to them. Perhaps the gesture didn’t suit them just right, the colors weren’t perfect, or the thing didn’t perform as hoped. Their complaints turn them into self-appointed victims and quickly cause others to seek distance from them. A perfect opportunity for gratitude instead leads to isolation.
To stop here is to miss the even bigger picture, however. Most of the things for which we should be grateful aren’t specifically done for us as individuals; they are bigger than any person. The natural beauty of our world, our health, our families and our freedom are paramount among the reasons to express gratitude for where and how we live. To express gratitude is to not take these incredible things for granted.
There is always something to complain about if you look for it. Conversely, there are countless reasons for gratitude as you experience the world around you. Like most things in life, gratitude is a choice. Amazingly, when you feel grateful the world looks different and better; your positive outlook has a way of leading to opportunity and progress. Expressing gratitude is the best possible way to enjoy the journey. What are you grateful for today?
Finding pleasure in small things makes all the difference, because the effect is cumulative. It’s easy to take day-to-day experiences for granted, but doing so is to miss out on the greatest opportunities for appreciation. A smile, a thank you, a door opened, a compliment, a favor, an unexpected gesture of kindness; these things and more create countless opportunities to express gratitude.
Gratitude is not a state of entitlement; it’s a posture of appreciation. Actions mean more when they’re not expected and when we know that they’re optional. When someone does something for you simply because they want to, but not because they must, the meaning is genuine.
Sadly, I’ve witnessed what happens when people miss the positive intent of others and instead find something to complain about as a result of something that was done for or to them. Perhaps the gesture didn’t suit them just right, the colors weren’t perfect, or the thing didn’t perform as hoped. Their complaints turn them into self-appointed victims and quickly cause others to seek distance from them. A perfect opportunity for gratitude instead leads to isolation.
To stop here is to miss the even bigger picture, however. Most of the things for which we should be grateful aren’t specifically done for us as individuals; they are bigger than any person. The natural beauty of our world, our health, our families and our freedom are paramount among the reasons to express gratitude for where and how we live. To express gratitude is to not take these incredible things for granted.
There is always something to complain about if you look for it. Conversely, there are countless reasons for gratitude as you experience the world around you. Like most things in life, gratitude is a choice. Amazingly, when you feel grateful the world looks different and better; your positive outlook has a way of leading to opportunity and progress. Expressing gratitude is the best possible way to enjoy the journey. What are you grateful for today?
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Dolores
9 years agoToday I am grateful for you, Bill. You hired me when I really needed a job years ago and then confirmed your confidence in my professional growth when I was hired by Austin Outdoor almost 12 years ago. It’s been a challenge at times with all the changes in the company and in my position, but I am truly thankful for the journey and can’t wait to see what’s ahead!
Steve Buckner
9 years agoI am grateful for my wife and 3 month old beautiful healthy baby girl!
Marina Lee
9 years agoI am very thankful for this great Company and wonderful People I work with! We have smart, talented and inspired individuals throughout our Company. I truely come to work with pleasure and leave with satisfaction. Thank you for the opportunity!
Ed Gifford
9 years agoToo many things to list!:) Most importantly I would have to say is the health of my family and friends! Sadly it seems gratitude and sincerity are traits that are less abundant in todays society.
Tamala Dennis
9 years agoIndeed – there are too many things to list of my gratefulness! Though, this reply isn’t about the things that would usually “appear” good in general, but the very things that would usually “appear” not so good in that very moment. Let me explain, if I may……
This very topic “Gratitude” was what a co-worker and I were discussing during our lunch today. After numerous attempts to have lunch together, we finally did and we both said “thank you” at the same time. Ironically, while on the subject of being thankful, we moved on in the conversation by sharing how important gratitude is, even on a level which many would think differently. Many times, we can become offended or even emotional over a situation at work. I resemble that very remark for this just recently happened to me. Let me share in a nutshell..it was said to me “business is business, don’t be emotional.” I pondered that and instead of being offended, my reply to the email was “yes sir and thank you.” At that very moment I realized that I was thankful to be put “in check.”
Constructive criticism is a blessing all by itself if we choose to see it for the great tool it can be. Gratefulness has one meaning but can be applied to many situations and issues.
I believe we all go through “some not so dandy moments” at our place of business, but I also know that to even be thankful during times of constructive criticism, this blessed word can take us on a higher level to become better people, teachable, and learn something from even those very moments we may deem threatening.
I know this is lengthily, but I wanted to share my gratitude because it truly does make me a better person. I conclude by encouraging to take gratefulness by the hand and may it teach us “great” things.
This message came from Bill at the right time, so thank you for that.
Lisa Hall
9 years agoBill, thank you for today’s message. Gratitude is food for the happy soul!
David
9 years agoI really do believe we all want to be happy. However I think it is harder for some to get there. As a business developer people want to buy from happy people. So I wear a smile and be energetic… hoping they get some. I am also grateful to see the sun come up every morning!