There is a definite link between gratitude and happiness.
First, what is happiness?
What many people may not realize is thathappiness isnt just an emotion or fleeting feeling.
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Its about how good you feel and also how satisfied you are with your life.
Yet, she also found happiness to include a deep sense of meaning, worth and purpose in life.
Gratitude supports happiness in ways related to all of these.
What Happens to Our Bodies When We’re Grateful?
Much scientific evidence has shown that gratitude has far-reaching effects on our health.
When people are thankful and are good with things as they are, their physical health reflects that.
Theyre more likely to exercise, eat better, and take care of their health.
Even better blood pressure and positive effects on the heart have been linked to gratitude.
Gratitude has a strongpositive impact on psychological well-being as well.
It increases self-esteem, enhances positive emotions and makes us more optimistic.
When we feel deep happiness, our bodies are producing all sorts of wonderful chemicals.
Keller explains more specifically how rewarding it is for our body.
Learn From the Scandinavians
In 2018 and 2019, Finland ranked No.
1 inThe United Nations (UN) World Happiness Report.
Therefore, Scandinavians themselves are determining their levels of happiness.
Its obviously pretty high.
Yet, there is something else.
The Swedes use the word lagom, to describe a kind of moderation, a just enough-ness they value.
They dont chase happiness or work overtime for months at a time.
By and large, they are accepting and content.
They also have low corruption and a high level of social trust.
As a result of this satisfaction and contentment, they feel their lives have value.
They have less pressure, less stress, and more time for what they enjoy.
Journaling every day is also correlated with an increase in happiness.
Start identifying things you might take for granted.
Then, take a moment to be thankful for them.
Be sure to consider positive actions and events that might seem small, common-place or inconsequential.
So, get creative and tailor them to your own life!
Do you feel that youre too busy, especially with work?
Keller encourages her clients to practice being thankful even at work.
She works with several high-octane business people and she encourages them to do gratitude exercises before big meetings.
improving their overall feelings of satisfaction and self-worth.
So, take some time to be thankful.
It can impact your happiness and enhance many aspects of your life.
