By Lynette M. Kokemor, MA-MCMH
Life reflects a seemingly mischievous sense of humor when it serves us a giant slice of humble pie. Typically, we are humbled at the most inopportune moments. The ability to stay humble and be grateful is a difficult task. As human beings, it is natural to want more. However, the constant desire for more “things” will affect your spirit negatively.
According to Dr. William Glasser, psychiatrist and creator of “Reality Therapy and Choice Theory,” human beings seek to fulfill five basic needs:
• Power (over self and achieving goals)
• Love and Belonging
(feeling a part of a group or love from family)
• Freedom
(over yourself, making your own choices)
• Fun (pleasure and joy)
• Survival (food, water and shelter)
Lacking one or all of the basic needs may control your actions. If you are feeling lonely, you may seek comfort with friends and family, fulfilling the need of love and belonging. Sounds simple? I wish! Total behavior consists of four components: thinking, acting, feeling and physiology. At the center of these components are emotions.
Emotions determine how we feel, and the feeling component of total behavior cannot be changed instantly. If you are searching for instant change, start today by being grateful, and pay close attention to how you think and act. Being grateful will uplift your spirit and will eventually cause a positive effect in your emotional health. Being grateful will be challenging at times. Therefore, as you journey through the holiday season, remember these quick tips to a happier, more grateful you.
Tips for a More Grateful You
- The only person’s behavior you can control is your own.
- Think before acting on emotions.
- Total behavior is based on thinking, acting, feeling, and physiology.
- Associate yourself with grateful people.
- Express your gratitude to loved ones.
- Keep an “I’m grateful” journal.
- Put more focus on what you have and less on what you don’t.
[title maintitle=”Feed Your Soul” subtitle=”The 7 Generosity Habits”]
One of the first steps to feeling grateful is to live your life generously. Living generously is important to the outside world as well as your personal wellness. Your physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing will be positively impacted if you practice the 7 Habits of Generosity. These concepts become second nature when they are practiced consistently.
• Physical Health
• Mindfulness
• Connecting To Others
• Connecting To Yourself
• Gratitude
• Simplicity
• Philanthropy
