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Introduction
Do you ever feel like your thoughts are clouded by negativity, making it hard to focus on the good things around you? Maybe you’ve wondered how you can shift your mindset and make gratitude more than just an occasional feeling. The truth is, gratitude is a practice—a practice that takes intention and mindfulness to truly cultivate.
In a recent Soul Summit Podcast episode (You can listen to the episode here!) Courtney Prete shares her personal experience with gratitude, and how it’s become a cornerstone in her life. This post reflects on her insights and offers practical, actionable steps you can take to bring gratitude into your life every day.
If you're looking for ways to shift your mindset and bring more gratitude into your life, you're in the right place. Let’s dive into how cultivating gratitude can transform your outlook and deepen your sense of joy.
Why Gratitude Is More Than a Feeling
Gratitude is often seen as something we feel spontaneously when things go well, but Courtney emphasizes that it’s much more than just an emotion—it’s a practice. “Gratitude is a practice,” she says, “It’s stepping into your day, your thoughts, your intentions, and being mindful about how you feel about everything around you.”
In her conversation, Courtney acknowledges that negativity is natural, but the key is not letting it take over. The practice of gratitude is about choosing to focus on the positive, even when the initial response is to feel overwhelmed or negative. Gratitude requires intention, and even on difficult days, choosing to focus on what you’re grateful for can create meaningful change in your life.
Reframing Your Mindset
We’ve all had those moments when the day starts off on the wrong foot and negativity creeps in. Courtney admits, “My knee-jerk reaction is not positivity. My knee-jerk reaction is negative.” But here’s the key: she doesn’t let that initial reaction define her day. Instead, she uses it as a reminder to practice gratitude. A simple antidote to this is for every negative thought, list three things you are grateful for!
Shifting your mindset isn’t about instantly becoming positive—it’s about being mindful of your thoughts and choosing gratitude, even when negativity is the default. It’s in these moments of intentional choice that the true power of gratitude unfolds.
Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude Every Day
One of the most accessible ways to practice gratitude is through journaling. Courtney shares that keeping a gratitude journal has been a game-changer for her. “I make sure to follow up on my intentions. Did I actually follow through with the things I wanted to focus on today?” she reflects. Journaling is a great way to actively note down what you’re grateful for, helping you reconnect with the things that matter most.
Courtney also suggests expressing appreciation to others. “Maybe it’s waking up in the morning and telling a friend how much they helped you, or telling your partner something you truly love about them,” she says. These external expressions of gratitude can deepen your internal feelings and build stronger, more meaningful relationships.
Mindfulness and Gratitude: The Connection
Mindfulness is another powerful tool for practicing gratitude. Courtney recommends slowing down and being present with your emotions. “Sit in the emotion, sit in the feeling of what you're thankful for,” she advises.
Whether it’s reflecting on a recent experience or just sitting quietly in nature, taking the time to really feel your gratitude helps you create a deeper connection with the practice.
Gratitude isn’t just about recognizing what you’re thankful for—it’s about fully immersing yourself in the experience of it. The more you practice mindfulness around gratitude, the more natural it becomes to recognize moments of appreciation throughout your day.
Gratitude in Nature: Reconnecting with the Outdoors
Courtney also highlights the power of nature in cultivating gratitude. “Get outside, get fresh air, and move your body,” she encourages. Nature has a unique ability to elevate your mood and help you refocus on the positive. Whether it’s a walk in the park or simply stepping outside for a few minutes of fresh air, nature provides a space for reflection and grounding.
Reflecting on the Past: The Power of Gratitude in Retrospect
Another powerful practice is reflecting on past experiences that brought you joy or fulfillment. Courtney shares how looking back on past moments helps her appreciate where she’s come from. “When we reflect on what we’ve already experienced, it’s easier to see all the things we’ve been grateful for that we may have taken for granted at the time,” she says.
Reflection allows you to recognize patterns of gratitude in your life and gives you perspective on what’s truly meaningful. It also helps you identify the small moments of joy that sometimes go unnoticed.
Conclusion: Gratitude As a Daily Practice
Gratitude is not a one-time event—it’s a practice that requires consistent effort and mindfulness. By incorporating simple practices like journaling, expressing appreciation, mindfulness, and spending time in nature, you can shift your mindset and create a life that’s centered around thankfulness.
If you’re ready to bring more gratitude into your life, start with small, intentional steps today. And if you’re looking for more insights on stepping into growth and overcoming challenges, check out our blog, How to Find Your Purpose and Thrive Through Life’s Challenges.
Keep showing up, keep learning, and embrace the power of gratitude as a practice for lasting change.
LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE, GRATITUDE AS A PRACTICE: CULTIVATING APPRECIATION THROUGH INTENTION & MINDFULNESS, BELOW!
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