True gratitude is a mindset, an attitude, as well as a practice of living with a deep appreciation for the goodness in life. A grateful person recognizes that positive things come from sources outside of themselves, whether it be other people, nature, or a higher power. This appreciative mindset acknowledges life’s gifts, connects us to others and cultivates deeper happiness and contentment, making life richer. This very sense of acknowledging something gratifying is truly life enhancing.
How has gratitude evolved? Researchers have traced this emotion way back to primate behavior. Robert Trivers introduced the theory of reciprocal altruism in 1971, suggesting that “gratitude is the emotion that regulates our response to altruistic acts by others and motivates our response in kind”. In this way, gratitude helps build social bonds and friendships between individuals.
An article in Wellness Wisdom in 2024 explores how expressing appreciation, with consistent practice, can lead to lasting changes in mental health and overall wellbeing. By strengthening the brain’s connection to positive emotions, gratitude acts as a natural antidote to stress and anxiety. When we express gratitude, we acknowledge the positive aspects of our lives which helps foster a positive mindset and encourages positive thinking. This results in a more uplifted outlook and improvement in our mental and physical health. Concentrating on positive emotions reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression while reducing toxic emotions like resentment, envy, and regret. Gratitude practices such as journaling or writing gratitude letters have been shown to lower stress hormone levels and increase dopamine and serotonin, the brain’s feel-good chemicals. This boosts our mood and helps us manage stress more effectively. Relaxation is enhanced, as well as our quality of sleep. According to the aforementioned article, “People who practice gratitude are often more empathetic and compassionate, which helps build stronger, more positive relationships and enhanced social connections.”
For many many years, above my office desk was the following quote by Cicero (106-43 B.C.): “Gratitude is considered as the greatest virtue and the mother of all other remaining virtues.” As we can see, research has backed up this statement very well. What I have come to realize in connection to feeling grateful is that it drives us to pass that goodness on to others.
On a personal note, I had the good fortune of being taught gratitude from a very young age. If a greeting card or a gift arrived, great detail was described as to the effort put forth for that transaction. Gratefulness seemed to become a common and frequent conversation in our home. Thank you notes were mandatory and proofread, and the words “thank you” were generously spoken. This evolution of gratitude developed and continued to evolve throughout my life, and its presence is currently very much alive. I find such inspiration in this mindset.
Do you want to discuss your current attitude and your practice of gratitude? Come see me; I would love to meet!
504-339-3597
