Finding Your Footing: How Gratitude Can Be Your Anchor in Stressful Times

Most of us would agree that being thankful is healthy, but actually practicing gratitude during tough times is much easier said than done. When challenges arise, it can feel hypocritical to acknowledge the good when everything seems to be falling apart. However, gratitude is a sure way to deal with stress in our lives.

One of the greatest benefits of gratitude is its ability to shift our focus from the challenges we face to what is working and good in our lives. This isn't about ignoring difficulties, but rather about recognizing that not all is lost, and even in the most dire situations, we can still take a hopeful step forward.

The amazing thing about gratitude is that it not only improves our mood but also has tangible effects on our bodies.

The physiological benefits of gratitude are remarkable:

• It lowers stress hormones.

• It calms the nervous system.

• It improves sleep quality.

• It supports heart health.

How do we cultivate a habit of gratitude, especially when it feels like the world is against us? The key is consistent acknowledgement of the good, in both good and bad times. When you're feeling overwhelmed, it's important to first acknowledge the emotion you're experiencing, but then intentionally pivot to hope. For example, you might say, "I feel frustrated and discouraged ," and then follow it with, "but I still have people in my life that love and care for me."

Here are some practical ways to integrate gratitude into your daily life:

1. Build Monuments: 

A fantastic way to build a gratitude habit is to make a conscious effort to note your victories, achievements, and good days. I call these "monuments"—things that can serve as reminders of the good that has happened to you. I drew this idea from the Bible, where God often instructed Israel to build monuments or perform acts to remember and communicate His goodness to future generations.

2. Start Your Day with Gratitude:

Another simple yet powerful method is to begin your day by listing three things you are thankful for. I personally like to include something that went well yesterday, as it reinforces the feeling of progress. This simple practice positions our minds to look for what is good instead of what is not good. Starting with gratitude also primes our hearts to appreciate the contributions of others as well.

3. Gamify Gratitude:

To keep myself focused, I started a personal game. Each day, I'd list something on my phone that went my way, something I was thankful for, or something I enjoyed. At the end of the day, I'd count my "score" and then try to beat it the next day. It's a fun and engaging way to stay present to the good.

Conclusion:

While gratitude can be challenging during difficult seasons, it is a truly effective way to manage stress and keep us moving forward in life. Remember to build your monuments, start your day with gratitude, and even gamify it!

Coach U

As you read through the three practices I list above, choose one that you would like to try in the next week. Tell someone that you are going to try this practice out and reflect after a week on how it went with your friend.

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