This habit transformed my life ??

I used to think the entire concept of gratitude was total BS.

If you know me, you’ll know I have coaches (Yes, coaches plural. I love them). Not for running a marathon (although never say never) but for different aspects of my life and career.

Sometimes my coaches give me such commonsense advice, I often think?“ummmm, what exactly am I paying for again?!?”

But, 9 times out of 10, when I follow through with the basic prescribed guidance, I end up being annoyed I didn't just listen from the start!

One of my coaches talks a lot about?gratitude.

It's a bit overused these days (just like ‘authentic') buuuut over the years I’ve fallen prey to this latest ‘craze’. I've learned to understand why gratitude is so darn important. And not just at Thanksgiving.

The proven benefits of gratitude include decreasing depression, increasing long-term happiness, and improving relationships.

Honestly, I used to think this was rubbish until my coach Mary pushed me (and I mean REALLY pushed me) to give it a whirl. For me, it works - big time.

Nowadays, I don’t get out of bed until I’ve come up with 3 things I’m grateful for. I say them out loud or sometimes just think them in my head. It helps me frame my day for the better and move forward when faced with stress or tough situations.

Here are my top gratitude tips - I hope they can help you too!

1. Put Pen to Paper.?Thinking about the reasons you’re grateful is helpful, but nowhere near as practical as writing it down. ?? (Not going to lie, I’m lazy and don’t do this. But I really should!)
2. Be specific.?Saying “I’m grateful for my friends” isn’t as strong as saying “I’m grateful for my friend who texted me when she knew I was having a rough day”. ??
3. Don’t ignore the small things.?Not every grateful item has to be groundbreaking. Being grateful for the blooms growing on your neighbor’s picket fence or the chit-chat you have with your barista - yup - they all count! ??

If you have a gratitude practice, comment below and let me know!

This holiday season I'm grateful to all of y'all, your awesomeness and your insights. Just one month in 2021 - bring it on!

Meggie

PS.?The Career Catapult (my final live course for the year) is on sale now! ?Don’t miss it if you want to finish the year strong and position yourself as a thought leader in your space.