We are ambitious entrepreneurs building our dream lives day by day. And as amazing as that is, it sometimes causes us to forget about appreciating and loving our lives as they are TODAY. Making gratitude activities a priority in your life can help you live in the “now” and love your life as you strive for your goals. 

It’s a fine balance between designing the life of your dreams, reflecting on your past, and being thankful for today. Hopefully, these gratitude activities inspire you! 

Gratitude activities are important. 

First, let’s talk about why implementing gratitude activities is so important. According to a study conducted by UC Berkley, people who practice gratitude consistently report a host of physical, psychological, and social benefits including stronger immune systems, better sleep, more joy, increased alertness, more forgiving attitudes, and so much more. 

Gratitude allows us to remember what is most important to us and helps us to be a light for others. 

Five gratitude activities to start today. 

So, what is the next step to turning gratitude into a daily practice? Here are some quick and easy ideas to inspire you! 

Start a gratitude journal. 

The most common gratitude practice, journaling, is a wonderful way to put on paper what it is that you’re thankful for. According to a study done by two psychologists at UC Davis, those who wrote about what they were grateful for once a week for 10 weeks were more optimistic and felt better about their lives. 

Give it a try! 

Make an uplifting music playlist. 

Music can be such a mood booster. Having an upbeat, positive, and even nostalgic playlist ready to go at a moment’s notice can steer you in the right direction if you’re feeling blue. 

This is a great way to uplift your spirit! And if you get the vibe that others in your home are feeling down, crank up that playlist and turn it into a house dance party!  

Send a message or card to someone. 

Often when we think of what we’re grateful for, we think of WHO we’re grateful for.  

Let them know! It’ll make you feel good, but more importantly, it’ll be the highlight of their day to be reminded of how much they are appreciated. 

Do things that bring you joy. 

Sometimes gratitude is an action. Doing activities that bring you joy can help you appreciate the little things in life. Is baking your thing? Going for a run? Hosting a dinner party? 

Take the time to bring hobbies or activities that you love back into your life. If you feel like you don’t have enough time, consider what you are saying “yes” to that’s having a toxic effect on your life. Make the switch and feel the weight of obligation melt off your shoulders. 

Do gratitude activities WITH your kids. 

If you have children, practice gratitude with them! A Journal of School Psychology study showed that counting blessings was associated with enhanced self-reported gratitude, optimism, and life satisfaction in children. 

Need ideas? Ask your kids to share one thing that made them happy that day or have them start their own gratitude journal. You might be surprised how your mood will change for the better when you see your children enjoying life to the fullest. 

Be grateful for today! 

Stay ambitious. Continue focusing on your future success. But love your life along the way. It’s a journey, so give yourself grace and always have a winning attitude! You’ve got this! 

Practicing gratitude not only impacts your mental health, but your physical health, too. Do you need to check in on your overall health? Check out this blog all about “Three Routine Health Checks You Shouldn’t Skip.”