4 Anchors for Honest Gratitude
Gratitude and grit go together.
The latest episode of the Walk Through Open Doors podcast is all about honest gratitude. Honest gratitude acknowledges that life is far from perfect and even sucks sometimes, while holding on to the idea that there is always more good than bad.
I talk about it in more depth on the podcast, but over the years I have found there are always these four things to be grateful for:
· There’s something instead of nothing.
· This something is stable.
· We have consciousness to experience this something.
· We have the ability to choose our response to our experience.
Here are a few exercises and journal prompts to help bring this into your everyday life:
There is something instead of nothing.
· Reflect on the existence of life and the world around you. Ask:
o What is one thing about the world that amazes me today?
o How does the fact that I exist right now make me feel?
Exercise: Take 5 minutes to observe your surroundings. List three things you notice that make you grateful for “something instead of nothing.”
This Something Is Stable
· Consider the stability of the world—the sun rises, gravity works, and much of life is predictable. Ask:
o What are three stable things I rely on in my daily life?
o When has stability in my life helped me navigate a difficult time?
Exercise: Think of one area in your life where you’re struggling. Identify one stable factor you can lean on for support or clarity.
We have consciousness to experience this something.
· Reflect on the incredible gift of awareness and perception. Ask:
o What is one moment today that I fully experienced and appreciated?
o How has being present and aware helped me feel more connected to my life?
Exercise: Take a few minutes to focus on one of your senses—sight, sound, taste, touch, or smell. Write about what you noticed and how it made you feel.
We have the ability to choose our response to our experience.
· Focus on your ability to navigate life with intention. Ask:
o When have I chosen to respond positively to a difficult situation?
o What is one area in my life where I can practice choosing a different response?
Exercise: Think of something frustrating. Write about how you responded, then brainstorm one way you could respond differently next time.
That’s it for this week. I’d love feedback on these exercises, and I’d enjoy hearing your thoughts about the podcast if you are so inclined.
Take care,
James