PULSE Magazine | November/December 2019 Issue

Compliment Others Find something nice to say to family, friends, coworkers or even a stranger in an elevator or at the grocery store. Complimenting someone will make them feel better about themselves. Kind words can create a positive feedback loop; the person giving the compliment often ends up feeling just as uplifted as the receiver of the compliment. Getting in the habit of complimenting others is a great way to nurture existing friendships while cultivating new ones. Be Mindful In our “ take care of number one ” society, our focus tends to be on ourselves rather than on others. Try to be more mindful of those around you. If they have a need, try to meet it. Force yourself to stay attentive in every conversation. Be an active listener and make eye contact with the person talking to you. Chances are, they’ll appreciate you taking the time to really listen to them, which in turn will make you grateful for being able to participate in a meaningful conversation. Pay It Forward Has a stranger ever done something nice for you? Did those good feelings motivate you to help someone else? When you’re in line at a restaurant or coffee shop, purchase a meal or beverage for the next person in line. This act of generosity will create gratitude in that person and hopefully inspire them to pay it forward to someone else. Giving to someone who can’t repay you can give you a tremendous feeling of satisfaction. Volunteer If you find a few spare hours in your schedule, consider volunteering at an animal shelter, food bank or mission. Serving others can be personally gratifying and can help alleviate stress while increasing health and happiness . Also, assisting others can make you feel more grateful for the good things in your life and give you a different perspective on the struggles that many people face each day. Count Your Blessings One of the best ways to stay in a grateful state of mind is to take a few moments to write down the positive things that you’ve experienced that day. Keeping a “Blessings Journal” can be a great way to unwind after a stressful day . Perhaps the best part of journaling comes when you look back at earlier entries and see the many blessings you’ve enjoyed in your life. Jot down three things that you’re grateful for every day. Then experience the bliss that gratitude can bring. Be Generous Although many people give to charities during the holidays, it’s important to remain generous year- round. Giving to others in need can produce feelings of fulfillment and joy. In addition to donating money, be generous with your time. Spending time with the sick or elderly can fill them with gratitude and a sense of hope. A small investment of your time can make a big difference in someone else’s life. Remember the Basics In the busyness of life , it’s easy to slack on pleasantries. Always remember to say thank you to someone who has served or helped you. Many people feel like they work a thankless job, so hearing someone thank them can make their day. Also, remember to smile. Smiles can be contagious , so do your part in spreading the happiness wherever you go.

Taking these simple steps can help you feel the power of gratitude during the holidays, and every day.

However you practice gratitude this holiday season, know that you are not only improving your own well-being, but those around you too!

Data and research obtained excerpts from: BrainMd, Daily Health, Psychologists Dr. Robert Emmons of the University of California at Davis and Dr. Michael McCullough of the University of Miami

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