attitude-of-gratitude

Day 4:  Gratitude Symbol

As we discussed in Day 3, increasing gratitude in our lives is a practice and let’s face it, implementing new practices into an already full life can be challenging.

One way to decrease the challenge of implementing something new is to keep the new goal in your vision at all times which focuses the brain, the memory and then the desired action.

Day 4’s gratitude practice is to find a symbol that brings your attention to something you are grateful for in the moment.

Symbols hold a powerful punch and act as icons to heightened emotional states.  Much like the icons on your computer, symbols are short cuts to an emotional response.  In this practice it is a reminder to look for something you are grateful for and then to FEEL the depth of that gratitude.


The practice of using a Gratitude Symbol:

Gratitude symbols can be anything.  The only real rule is that you want it to elicit a warm, loving feeling within you. If it does the opposite then toss it aside.

 

Here are a few symbol suggestions but don’t let this list limit your creativity.
  • Something in the shape of a heart to represent the love you feel for and from a person in your life
  • A special stone or rock
  • A charm or other object that represents financial freedom
  • A picture that represents joy and laughter
  • A gift that someone gave you
  • A quote or saying that speaks to you
  • A special mug or glass from which to drink
  • A screen saver on your phone or computer

Each time you see your symbol you will be reminded of how much you have to be grateful for.


Note:  If possible carry this object with you so you can be reminded throughout the day, wherever you are, to build your Attitude of Gratitude.  If it’s not transportable consider having a few different objects so you always have at least one symbol within view.  Want extra credit?  After you have worked with your symbol for a length of time bless it and release it.  Give it to a friend, co-worker or family member.  Share the exercise with them so they too can experience the power of Attitude of Gratitude.

“If you practice gratitude a little, your life will change a little. 

If you practice gratitude a lot every day, your life will change dramatically

and in ways you can hardly imagine.”  ~Rhonda Byrne

Thankful for you,

Coach Jill