How to Show Gratitude

Gratitude is the feeling of being thankful or appreciative. For most of us, this means muttering a quick "thanks" to the stranger who held the door or when a package is delivered to the door.

Of course, we should say thank you in these situations, but consciously living with a sense of gratitude is an entirely different concept. Living with a sense of gratitude involves more than our automatic and emotionless response in the above example.

So, how can we live in a conscious state of gratitude? Try these tips to develop and strengthen your sense of gratitude.

Stop complaining. We spend so much time and energy thinking and talking about the negative. What went wrong, what should have happened to suit our needs, how we've been slighted or wronged. Every time you find yourself complaining about anything, just stop! Instead of complaining, focus on what went right with that situation or person. Practice putting your time and energy into being able to recognize the silver lining.

Become aware of your negative self chatter. When you become aware of all the negative internal talk, you can choose to replace it with self talk that is grateful. When that nagging voice in your head says, "You'll never finish" or "You can't do this," you can focus on all the positive things you have accomplished and be grateful for them.

Stop judging others. Remember, when you point the finger at another, there are three fingers pointing back at you. You aren't in the shoes of the person you're judging and most definitely their situation is going to be different than yours. It's easy to say, "If that were me..." and then pass judgement. Stop yourself and be thankful that you're not in their situation and grateful that you're able to recognize that we're all doing the best we can in life.

Surround yourself with like minded people. Your friends and associates should mirror your sense of gratitude. Are your friends positive, happy, thankful people who nurture and inspire you spiritually, emotionally and intellectually? Likewise, you should always strive to mirror and support their sense of gratitude.

Encourage others to be positive. When people around you are experiencing difficult situations and are struggling, point out all the positive things about them. Tell them exactly why you are grateful for them and their presence in your life.

Say thank you. This seems so basic and common courtesy really does demand it. But stop and think about it; how many times, during a day, are you on the receiving end of a random act of kindness? Whether it's holding the door or a package delivery, say thank you and truly mean it. Show that other person that you really are grateful for what they've done for you.

Living with a sense of gratitude makes our lives richer and so much more meaningful. When we live with gratitude, we're able to let go of our judgements, our complaints, our jealousy and our stress. Gratitude can lift our spirits and make everyday something to look forward to.