The single most effective way to fill your heart with love and joy
Would you agree that being happy with simple things makes it simple to be happy?
Researchers Robert Emmons and Michael McCullough seem to think so.
In a study they performed in 2003, they asked three groups of students to write down one of three things. Five gratitudes, five hassles, or five events that occurred during the past week.
Can you guess what they found?
The group who wrote down five gratitudes were much more optimistic than the other two groups. They felt better about their lives and (surprisingly) were even physically healthier.
Other benefits reported included higher levels of enthusiasm, determination, attentiveness, and energy. They also had a much higher likelihood of making progress toward important personal goals.
All from something as simple as reflecting on the beauty of a sunset.
And it makes perfect sense…
When you reflect on the good in your life, you focus your attention on things that fill your heart with love and joy. Heck, even thinking about a puppy can take you to a warm and loving place.
There’s SO much to be grateful for. And the more you practice, the more you’ll find blessings in each and every moment that passes.
Your challenge:
At the end of each week for the next two weeks, write down five things you’re grateful for.
It could be about the love you have for your family or your excitement about connecting with an old friend. Whatever it is, just be sure to tap into feelings of love and joy as you reflect on them.
When you’re done, take another moment to sit back and analyze how you feel. Notice the warmth that hugs your heart and makes you happy to be alive.
That feeling right there is the gift of gratitude — and the best part is that you can give it to yourself whenever you please.
Halt right there!
If you enjoyed this daily musing, would you mind holding down that 👏 button below? You can clap more than once, ya know… 😉
