As the days get shorter and cooler, it’s a natural time to get cozy at home and reflect on everything we are grateful for. When we reflect and acknowledge what we are grateful for, it generates positive emotions within us and improves our wellbeing. Studies have not only linked gratitude to increased levels of happiness, they’ve also found a link between gratitude and the ability to problem solve. In other words, seeing the glass half-full engages our creativity, allowing us to see the multitude of possibilities in front of us.
Deepak Chopra says, “The best use of imagination is creativity. The worst use of imagination is anxiety.” I know this to be true for me. My mind likes to stay busy and if I’m not creating something positive, my mind looks for problems and creates worry. Creating gratitude is like any other habit we can form.
To support us all in creating more gratitude, this November, we encourage our Acacia Creek family and friends to participate in the Master the Moment campaign. This campaign challenges us to notice the small moments that bring us joy and gratitude and allows us to positively impact our health and wellbeing. By being mindful and embracing small moments, we learn to appreciate every aspect of life, no matter how large or small.
Participating in the campaign is simple. We call it the 3.3.30 challenge: three times a day, think of three things you’re grateful for. It can be small things that you notice and appreciate. Try it for 30 days and see how making gratitude a habit makes you feel.
Penny Vittoria
Acacia Creek Successful Aging Coach