Gratitude

I try to begin and end each day with an expression of gratitude. Often, it's simply thinking about something I'm most thankful for when I wake up in the morning or before I go to bed. Other times, it’s more of an intentional activity. I try to write down three or four things for which I’m thankful.

When I’m at my best, I weave gratitude throughout my day, not only reflecting on my blessings, but also finding ways to express my gratitude to others, sometimes through the smallest of intentional actions. This may be a kind word, a smile, or an acknowledgement that I recognize and appreciate your presence and your efforts.

I’ve borrowed a gratitude mantra from singer-songwriter Ray Wylie Hubbard from his song Mother Blues. It goes like this, “The days I keep my gratitude higher than my expectations, I have really good days.”

Practicing gratitude helps keep me focused on my purpose and helps ensure that, on balance, I have really good days.