Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1427282
20 B e n e f i t s o f G R AT I T U D E ELEVATED MOOD Because it's hard to experience negative and toxic emotions when you're practicing gratitude, the people who regularly do so are generally happier. "When you practice gratitude with intention, chances are, it brings up positive feelings. Positive actions result in positive thinking and, therefore, a more positive mood," says Saia. BOOSTED SELF-ESTEEM Remaining grateful for what one has makes it easier to let go of envy and resentment towards those with more, boosting self-esteem. "A gratitude mindset allows you to be content with what you have," says Saia. "You're less focused on what you don't have or what everyone else thinks you should have." INCREASED COMPASSION & EMPATHY Gratitude encourages compassionate, empathetic, generous, and helpful behaviors—even when someone isn't being kind. "True gratitude means you appreciate what you have and have no expectations of getting anything in return," says Saia. ENHANCED MENTAL RESILIENCE Feeling thankful can assist with recovery from negative experiences, too. Concentrating on what's still good in life, even during tough seasons, fosters resilience. "While practicing gratitude doesn't minimize challenges, when you think about one positive thing, it typically leads to more positive things," says Saia. "These positive thoughts can reenergize us and give us the strength to move forward." STRENGTHENED RELATIONSHIP BUILDING Saying "thank you" is more than good manners; studies show that expressing gratitude helps build a foundation for deeper connections. Saying "thanks" can spark new relationships and build bridges. "It's simple; if you're gracious, people want to be around you," says Saia. DEEPENED RELATIONSHIPS People who take the time to express gratitude for their loved ones tend to feel closer to them. They're also able to express feelings and concerns openly, a key component of healthy relationships. "It's easy to be comfortable around grateful people—you know they value you, your relationship, and what you offer," says Saia. IMPROVED CAREER EXPERIENCES Gratitude can make you an effective manager, increase productivity, improve decision-making, and contribute to reduced turnover rates. "As a leader, it's important to appreciate and have gratitude for your employees," says Saia. "Thanking and noticing employees motivates them to work harder and find purpose in their work." BETTER PHYSICAL HEALTH Those who incorporate gratitude in their daily lives are more likely to exercise, attend check-ups, and make healthier choices. Research also links gratitude to lowered blood pressure and fewer aches and pains. "You should be able to physically feel gratitude in your body," says Saia. "Hanging on to negativity takes a lot of energy. When you focus on the positives, your body releases tension, stress, and even pain." Taking a few moments out of your day to silently or verbally express appreciation can dramatically transform your mental, social, emotional, and physical health and well-being. When it comes to gratitude, you get what you give. We asked social work consultant and mental health advocate Sharon Saia, MSW, LISW-S, to share everything you can get from a little gratitude.