Published on December 2nd, 2014 | by Nancy F. Clark

8 Essential Benefits of Gratitude

By Nancy Clark—

“When you focus on gratitude, positive things flow in more readily, making you even more grateful.” —Lissa Rankin

You don’t have to wait for that next promotion to make an entry in your gratitude journal. Think of that one little thing that happened today—someone complimented you, or you were able to help someone else who really appreciated your assistance. Any little thing that made you feel good is fodder for your journal.

And, guess what, a scientist would tell you this is a good idea. Research by UC Davis psychologist Robert Emmons, the author of Gratitude Works! shows that simply keeping a gratitude journal can significantly increase your well-being and life satisfaction. What can you gain?

Gratitude gives you:

A stronger immune system
Increased energy
Higher self-esteem and reduces comparisons with others
Lower blood pressure
A better night’s sleep
More empathy, better relationships and less loneliness
Less aggression, even when facing negative feedback
A higher level of joy, optimism, and happiness

“Gratitude is an opener of locked-up blessings.” —Marianne Williamson

Here is one of my favorite Gratitude Infographics! Please pass this forward to your friends. Thanks!

You might also enjoy this post:
How Daily Meditations Can Reduce Work Stress And Increase Happiness

Tools To Make Your Self-Talk More Positive

Best to you! Nancy Clark, PositivityDaily.com

Nancy F. Clark

Nancy Clark is CEO of PositivityDaily, Director of Forbes WomensMedia, and author of The Positive Journal. She coaches companies and executives in business skills with the added benefit of training in positive psychology and happiness -- incorporating the latest scientific studies on changing brain patterns and habits. Clark believes that positivity is the next necessary step to engage employees.

Tags: better health, better relationships, gratitude, optimism

About the Author

Nancy F. Clark Nancy Clark is CEO of PositivityDaily, Director of Forbes WomensMedia, and author of The Positive Journal. She coaches companies and executives in business skills with the added benefit of training in positive psychology and happiness -- incorporating the latest scientific studies on changing brain patterns and habits. Clark believes that positivity is the next necessary step to engage employees.