The Power of Gratitude and Appreciation.

In recently researching some materials for some upcoming work on how to build Purpose and Resiliance, I was reminded how gratitude and practising this as a trait is often an important key to unlocking a negative mind-set in clients. I did come across some very helpful sources and I want to thank Courtney Ackerman from California for her excellent summary of how gratitude has such a powerful impact in our lives and more importantly explaining the why in her study. I have never met Courtney but I have thanked her . I was energised by the content of her article. https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-appreciation/

Do have a read and practice some of the tips that she has provided.

Whilst this was floating around in my mind I want to share a real story that happened today that reminds me why gratitude is a daily opportunity. A few weeks ago, catching up with a former client and friend, I was delighted to hear that as part of his growing portfolio of activities, he had qualified as an accredited Life saver at a local Surf Lifesaving club. The journey to accreditation is a long and challenging journey that demands the highest commitment and involves a lot of training. My friend transmitted enormous pride and was looking forward to volunteering on various watches on his beach to keep us safe.

This morning I recieved a text from the same friend who was in hospital following a nasty accident at sunrise doing surf rescue training. Practicing with 6 other colleagues to get out to sea quickly to rescue people, a colleague lifesaver was wiped out by a freak wave and his life board shot out and hit my friend in the back. He was unable to swim, yell, or dive under the waves. It was a near death experience which he will not forget. The great news is that he was rescued by the same colleague who lost his board , and with the help of the other crew, he was safely returned to shore and transported to hospital where he is recovering from a puntured lung and a few cracked ribs.

So the purpose of this post is to thank the bloke who saved my friend, I do not know who you are but I suspect both of you will be good mates for life. The same thanks go out to the thousands of other volunteers in lifesaving, fire prevention and other similar services who put themselves on the line every day for you and me. You have our gratitude,appreciation and huge respect.

https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-appreciation/