Give compliments of appreciation when someone does something nice for you. Appreciate the date that takes you to a concert or a friend who invites you to a party. Thank the busboy that filled your water glass or the security guard who held the door open to the store.
People feel good when they’re acknowledged and that’s you giving a great gift.
5. Give Thanks
It’s a cliché expression because it works. If you’re thankful for what you have … you’ll feel much more comfortable than focusing on what you don’t have.
(I’d love to have a second home in Aspen and a private jet to fly us there. Focusing on it makes me depressed.)
Instead, I’m thankful to have my survival needs met. I’m thankful for my husband (that I worked looooonnnnngggg and hard to have). I’m thankful for my family (they’re not perfect people, but there’s a lot of love). I have my health. I have my faith. I have creative outlets, my friends, etc ... I’m thankful every day.
I appreciate your frustration if you’re single and want a relationship … especially during the holidays. It’s the time of year when it seems like every ad or TV show promotes lovers and families warmly celebrating together and everybody has somebody but you! It’s not true … but that’s what sells.
Everybody has his or her stuff. EVERYBODY. By focusing on what you don’t have, you’re more likely to attract more of that … what you don’t have. Focus instead on what you do have and be grateful for the relationship (or money or whatever), that’s coming into your life.
A great story about “giving thanks” involves my friend, Lisa.
Six months ago, Lisa had an accident leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. The doctors said it was uncertain she would ever walk again. Lisa has not given up. Since May, her road to recovery has been slow and painful. Now she’s walking (with help) and she’s driving (with hand gears) and more importantly, she’s grateful.
For what? You may ask.
