A Simple Way to Be Happy That Doesn’t Involve A Resolution.
avatar

Lucky Duck Living™

Gratitude grows the more you name it.

 

I am so excited about this article!

There is a tradition among some that I’ve recently been introduced to...

It’s simple, doesn’t involve a resolution and effortlessly builds happiness!

All you need is an empty jar, keepsake box, or, heck…even a zip lock baggy will do in a pinch. Also, you’ll need a pen and paper. I’ll wait while you get them.

Do you have them? Stop reading and go grab ‘em. Do. It. Now. My Lovely.

OK, ready?

Write down one good thing that has happened in the last two days. Or, one negative thing that didn’t happen, if that helps prompt you.

Actually, I hesitate to quantify things as good and bad… is there something you’re grateful for?

Financial? Work? Family? Spiritual? Physical?

It could be anything. Maybe you got engaged? Maybe your kids let you sleep an extra 20 minutes? Or, perhaps something serious, like surviving a close call while driving.

Write it down in a few words on a small piece of paper, date it, and put it in your jar, or, whatever container you’ve gotten for yourself.

Now, put the jar on your dresser, nightstand… any place where you’ll see it all the time.

That’s it!

…at least, until the next time you find yourself grateful. Then write that down and put it in your jar, and continue this practice throughout the year.

Every time something you’re grateful for happens, write it down and put it in your jar. Your kids are sure to have fun with this, too.

And, the more you do it, the more you’ll be aware of things you want to write down.

Here’s the thing. Resolutions have rarely worked for me in creating a happier life. But gratitude always works!

And while gratitude lists can be a wonderful tool, I prefer this idea of letting things unfold and presenting themselves, instead of racking my brain for a list of what I should feel good about.

Even more, this is a gift you are giving yourself not only all year, but also on New Year’s Eve 2014 when you go through the jar of all your 2013 blessings.

Life can be tricky…and, it definitely has its ups and downs. This simple practice can anchor you in your life in a way that few other things can.

I’m going to do this for myself this year and I invite you to join me…

I hope you’ll share with me what gratitudes have come to mind for you, I look forward to hearing!

In the meantime, have a beautiful day, and remember, I am most definitely in your corner…

Love,
Thais

photo credit: aussiegall via photopin cc


Comments

A Simple Way to Be Happy That Doesn’t Involve A Resolution. — 5 Comments

  1. Thais, I have kept a gratitude journal since the 1980s. Habitually on the end of the year/ beginning of the year I review some old journals and yesterday I ran across them. Some goals and frustrations remain the same. Some I goals I have attained....or they changed. But it is great to review.
    I like this gratitude jar because it is so visual. I “won” a coupon booklet of free items at Sprouts yesterday for being the 25th person. That is the first gratitude time in my jar and I know I’ll add many more. Thanks for the good idea!
    Gera

    • You are most welcome, Gera! 

      Journals are so tricky for me... I had this idea that some day I’d go back and pull from mine...and have a story worth telling. When I started re-reading....utter dreck! It really shined a light on how — for years — I went round and round the same old mountain of difficulties. I do much better writing about right now.

      Don’t get me wrong, I know journaling can be an amazing tool, but, the way I was applying it really kept me stuck as much as it helped me.

      I too like the visual aspect of a jar...or something meaningful to hold our PLUS moments:) CONGRATS on the coupon booklet you won...I love Sprouts! I was just in there today...they have 25% off on vitamins and body care products. WooHoo!

      Happy Happy Happy New Year to you, Gera ~
      Thais

  2. Thais,

    This is a great idea and one I am going to tell my kids about today. Something simple & visual yet I’m sure will have a big impact.

    Thanks!
    Andrea

    • My pleasure Andrea! I am so pleased that you’re going to tell your kids about it... It really does seem like a great way to build gratitude without being forcefed;) Kids are so darn resistant (as can I be) to things that they “should do” ’cause it’s good for them! I really appreciate your commenting. Do let me know how it goes... Thais

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *