Tag: Gratitude Challenge

Day 2 Gratitude Challenge

Take time today to notice and appreciate the little things. Look around. What little things can you notice and appreciate? Maybe you will experience something in nature. Perhaps you will notice the smile or laugh of a friend. How about the smell of fresh coffee or tea? How about electricity or running water? Find the joy in these small things and be grateful.

An example from yesterday – While walking my dog, I saw a whitetail doe darting across an open field nearby. While I was watching her run, I noticed the reason she was running. I young buck was chasing her. My dog also noticed and wanted to join the chase! It only lasted about 10 seconds before they bounded out of sight. I am thankful to live in a city where this sight is possible. I am thank the gift of nature.

What will you notice today?

Day 1 of the Gratitude Challenge

Day 1 – No complaining or whining all day. NONE. Speak only positive words all day. Think Ted Lasso. Find the good rather than the bad. This is especially challenging because I believe we are hard wired to focus on the negative over the positive.

Truth be told, I started the challenge last night as my beloved Minnesota Vikings took on the Dallas Cowboys. It was challenging. I focused on how much joy the Vikings have brought me over the year. I did not focus on all the times they have disappointed me – though that has been many. If I focus on such negative experiences, my mood spirals downward. Plus, why keep watching? I watch because I am hopeful. Heck, if I can make it through a Vikings game speaking only positive words, I can do just about anything! I was not entirely successful but many would have laughed watching me! Have a great day. Stay positive.

A thought for today: “Keep this thought at the ready at daybreak, and through the day and night – there is only one path to happiness, and that is in giving up all outside of your sphere of choice, regarding nothing else as your possessing, surrendering all else to God and Fortune.” – Epictetus, Discourses, 4.4.39

November – A month of gratitude

It is hard to believe my life changing adventure began a year ago. I had buried my brother just over a month before and was in a very dark place. My wife provided me with a gratitude challenge. For 21 days, I was to think, act and live with a gratitude mindset. Doing this each day and posting about it each day, began a transformation in my mind, body and spirit.

This year, I will do as similar challenge but for all of November and post about it here. I challenge you to do the same. Post will go up every morning no later than 6:30 am Central Time. I will continue to provide other regular updates too! It starts tomorrow!