It puts an artificial deadline on something that we should attempt to benefit from on a daily basis.
And as you’ll see, we have someverydistinct approaches to gratitude.
Here’s what we have discovered in our moments of quiet reflection.
For me, my idol is my Aunt Trini.
after recounting childhood stories to friends.
Like many parents, mine shied away from discussing those uncomfortable-but-still-important topics like sex and dating.
Luckily for me, she was happy to share her adventurous dating experiences from her 20- and 30-something-year-old days.
She told me that cinnamon brings good luck.
Even a simple text with an affirmation or a prayer would be enough to uplift me.
I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without her guidance.
Among her many curated programs, I love her 10-minute sessions that make up a larger 30-day challenge.
-Andria Park Huynh
Regretitude
Gratitude doesnt come easy to me.
Those moments come to mind much faster and easier than the moments that reinforce the goodness of life.
The anxiety and doubt provoked by the former are far more visceral than the gentle warmth of the latter.
So, the way Im leaning into gratitude this year is by leaning into regret.
Maybe that growth will have me feeling less regretful the next time I decide to look back.
OK Kate, calm down.
So how do we harness the power of gratitude in a way that doesnt involve shame orcomparison?
Despite the popularity ofgratitude journals, I believe this is a practice that happens in the moment.
A particularly kind stranger?
That first sip of your cappuccino?
Witnessing the pure joy of other peoples dogs making friends at the dog park?
When you pass through the subway turnstile right as your train is pulling up?
Watching the new episode of your favorite TV show with your partner?
Gratitude can be useful in the most understated ways, and can exist alongside the darker parts of life.
2014;26(3):349-362. doi:10.1080/10413200.2014.889255
