Be Grateful
When we talk about gratitude, I like to say that giving thanks should be a key part of everyone’s daily routine. There is so much research to support all the ways this practice cultivates mental health, a sense of well-being, better relationships with others, and even an improvement to our physical health.
And yet, before we can give thanks for the things outside ourselves, I believe it’s even more important to get in touch with the unique gifts and skills each of us brings to the world. What are you thankful for within yourself?
So many use a harsh inner voice with themselves, talking in a language that they would never dream of using with their friends or family. “I’m so stupid,” or “Boy, I screwed that up!” or even worse.
The reality is that if we are to truly begin a practice of gratitude, it must start with giving thanks for our own gifts and talents. Do you have a gift for arranging flowers, or are you someone who can repair a car? Have you been given extra sensitivity to the needs of others, making you a beloved friend or confidante in your inner circle?
In my book, Seven Steps to Inner Power: How to Break Through to Awesome, I talk about this inner dialogue and its impact on our success and well-being:
“Do you address yourself lovingly or is your inner dialogue constantly self-critical? Do you know when you are being abusive to yourself? Part of practicing patience is being respectful toward yourself and forgiving yourself. If you catch yourself being impatient, doubting yourself, or constantly criticizing yourself with self-destructive energy, you know it’s time to have a heart-to-heart talk with yourself. Go to a mirror, look yourself right in the eyes, and remind yourself that you deserve to attain the goals you have set for yourself.” (Page 237.)
Remember, there is no one, not a single person, exactly like you in the world. You are a miracle of one. And if you’re reading this, please remember to give thanks not only for all the wonderful things around us, from the trees to the clouds to the flowers, to the food in our bellies and the clothing that keeps us warm, but for the wonderful gift of yourself to the rest of us.
I believe that’s a gift worth sharing. Loving yourself is the first step.
Would you like to read more inspiring articles: About Grandmaster Tae Yun Kim, Her Timeless Epic Journey and Top 25 Quotes by Tae Yun Kim
