7 Fun Ways To Be More Thankful (And Mindful) In Your Life

We’ve read the studies. We’ve seen the gratitude challenges on Facebook. We know that being thankful is an objectively good thing, directly related to our level of happiness. Yet, when life throws us a curveball, being thankful is the first thing that goes out the window. We aren’t hardwired to be grateful, so like any skill worth having, gratitude requires practice. Here are a few simple things you can do to cultivate a little more gratitude, no matter your current circumstances.

1. Give at least one compliment a day

Having gratitude is all about slowing down and taking time to appreciate the little things. What better way to show this than by complimenting others? You’re practicing your observational skills as well as making someone else feel a little bit better (not to mention the residual good feelings you’ll get). Win win win. Maybe complimenting others isn’t exactly your forte. You could start by inviting someone to appreciate something with you, for example, “I love rainy days like today, don’t you?” Or for those with even less tolerance for others, try a simple, “hello.”