Last week we talked about phase 1 of gratitude, and how keeping a gratitude list will help you embrace things with gratitude instead of taking them for granted. Once this happens, you will actually feel gratitude in your heart and in your soul, and it will bring you so much joy.
You will now find that you enter phase 2 of gratitude, sometimes without even realizing it.
And what is phase 2? It’s extending gratitude to others. Maybe through an email, text, phone call – whatever you feel comfortable with. But reach out to those who have made an impact in your life and find a way to tell them.
I personally send cards. In this day of instant gratification, it’s nice to actually get something in the mail that’s not a bill or an advertisement. I have a friend named Asha who sends me cards for unusual things – not just my birthday or the holidays, but to say congratulations on that big speaking gig you just landed, or simply that I’m thinking of you and I’m happy to have you for my friend. Every time I receive a card from her, it brings a smile to my face. Asha makes me feel special, and I want to extend that same feeling to others.
And, if you are in a comfortable place, you can also show gratitude to someone who gave you the push you needed when you weren’t ready. I met someone recently who actually sent her ex-husband a thank you card for all that she learned from him. Even though she didn’t agree with the way he ended their relationship, she was still grateful for the time they spent together and the things she learned from him. I have to admit that I haven’t reached this level yet, but I’m working on it.
This second phase of gratitude will help you to connect with others more deeply. To let others know how their efforts and presence make an impact on you.
Let me know your experience with this second phase of gratitude. Who have you reached out to???
Categories: Personal Development
Tags: Gratitude, Gratitude List, Joy, Taking for Granted
