The power of gratitude

Saying thank you is polite and a thoughtful thing to do–and that’s important. But giving thanks is also a terrific way to increase your happiness and wellbeing. Taking time to experience gratitude has benefits that go far beyond showing appreciation.

New Relationships

Being thankful is far more than doing the right thing. It’s also a great way to develop new friendships that last and build stronger work relationships. If you thank the person at the gym that handed you a towel, she might become your new workout friend. Or if you write a personal note to the co-worker who supported you in the staff meeting, he could be more likely to collaborate and back your ideas. And it just might turn into a long-term relationship. [1]

More Thanks–Better Sleep

Interestingly, a study in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being demonstrated that people who keep a gratitude journal sleep better. The study showed that people who spend just 15 minutes writing down the things they are grateful for might sleep longer and more deeply.[2]

The Gratitude Professor

Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., professor of psychology at the University of California, Davis, is considered the world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude. He reports that people who keep a gratitude journal for just one-week experience benefits. In addition, those who practice gratitude on a regular basis experience a wide range of health benefits, including lower blood pressure, fewer aches and pains and stronger immune systems. These individuals are also more alert and optimistic and experience more joy and pleasure. Dr. Emmons believes we enjoy these benefits because gratitude helps us acknowledge there are good things in the world–even if we have concerns and problems. [3]

This Thanksgiving many of us will gather with family and friends to eat turkey, enjoy family and yes, watch football. This is also a great day to make a commitment to give thanks every day for what you have and count your blessings.[4] It’s also a good time to put negativity behind and try to make other people happy – even when you disagree.

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[1] Forbes.com, “7 Scientifically Proven Benefits Of Gratitude That Will Motivate You To Give Thanks Year-Round,” Amy Morin, November 2014
[2] Ibid
[3] Mind & Body, “Why Gratitude Is Good,” Robert Emmons, November 2010
[4] Huffington Post, “The Power of Thanks,” Jim Fannin, December 2017