Gratitude isn't an attitude. Gratitude is a choice.
It’s November, which means we’re all thinking about Thanksgiving and focusing on what we’re grateful for. But gratitude shouldn't be limited to our once-a-year homage to the almighty turkey and manic shopping behaviors. You've heard the clichéd line about having an "attitude of gratitude." But gratitude is more than an attitude. Gratitude is a lifestyle choice that involves consciously choosing to look beyond your circumstances.
Gratitude is a choice that leads to an attitude. A thankful heart sees beyond circumstances because struggles are no longer setbacks. Instead of being limited by external events, you are in control of your actions. Gratitude allows you to see problems and weaknesses as opportunities. Gratitude allows you to move from frustration and disappointment to contentment and joy.
I love how author Terry Lynn Taylor puts it. "Gratitude is our most direct line to God."
The psalmist David embodies this connection through his example of a grateful heart. No matter the situation, no matter the problem, no matter the sin, he always thanked God. He shares his frustrations and heartaches with God, but he never ends there. He concludes his laments in the Psalms with, "And yet, I will praise You." That is not an attitude. It was a conscious decision. David made a choice that set his attitude.
Choosing gratitude isn't mere pop psychology or a feel-good technique to ensure you always have a rainbow guiding you through life. Empirical data shows us that gratitude changes physical properties in the brain. Your neural pathways and brain functions change each time you choose to be grateful. Your brain is inflamed when you feast on negative thoughts like ingratitude. But the choice to discipline yourself to think and speak with gratitude defines your nature, demeanor, and how your brain functions. When you practice gratitude, your brain releases dopamine and serotonin, the two crucial neurotransmitters responsible for our emotions that make us feel good.
Incorporating gratitude into your daily life is simple. Start by saying, "Thank you." Look the other person in the eye and honestly say, "Thank you." Even better, ask for their name first and then personally thank them.
Commit to a gratitude journal. Document what happens during your day by writing down three to five things, people, or events for which you are thankful. Look for lessons that you learned through sweet moments and kind words, simply because you chose to be grateful. A word of warning though: when you do this, your life will change. How can I be so confident of this? In I Thessalonians 5:18, Paul states, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." When you do the will of God, your life will be different. Period.
A grateful heart indisputably changes your perspective. And when your perspective changes, you can be sure your brain chemistry has changed as well, leading to a happier, more balanced you.
How are you going to practice gratitude this November? Whatever you decide…don’t let it be just this month. Keep it going and you’ll experience physical, spiritual, and relational benefits.
Blessings to you,
Melissa
