Lean into Joy

Those who lean into joy embody and practise gratitude. It is an actual practice as in keeping a record either written or digital of what they are grateful for. Gratitude changes everything, gives you perspective and is easily one of the most powerful exercises I facilitate.

The benefits of gratitude are many and proven: physical health, greater happiness, better sleep, more self-esteem, stronger relationships, greater resilience, less anxiety, reduced symptoms of depression, and so much more. Writing down what you are grateful for means you are articulating it regularly and the more specific you can be, the better.

Gratitude can extend to the workplace too.

Imagine starting meetings with thanks? I mean specifically thanking individuals for their contributions or encouraging people to share what they are grateful for. This creates an immediate shot of connection and wellbeing. Or even something as simple as bringing freshly baked cookies to share (something I often do!) is a simple gesture of kindness and a great icebreaker.

Another great thing to do, whether you do this for yourself or at work is to spend some time reflecting on what has gone really well - just reflect on positive experiences - and that's it! It's not a prelude to examining what didn't go so well - it is reflecting on those experiences for the sake of it.

“When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” —Willie Nelson

I facilitate gratitude exercises in my awareness-raising workshops to develop adaptability, critical thinking, empathy, integrity, optimism, being proactive and resilient. It is of course one of many exercises but I am often amazed by how valuable people find it.