The subject of gratitude has been surfacing a lot lately. So I thought I should check into what others have to say on the subject... and there is a whole lot out there. But before I get into that, I want to report that I am going to keep a gratitude journal. I have selected a small notebook covered in rich red silk, with a golden coin, to represent the wealth that I receive from all the things I have to be grateful for.
And now, some of what I have learned about gratitude:
Psychologists Michael McCollough (Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas) and Robert Emmons (University of California at Davis), conducted an experiment on gratitude and its impact on well-being. The results showed that daily exercises in gratitude resulted in higher reported levels of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, optimism and energy. Those who were in the gratitude group experienced less depression and stress, were more likely to help others, exercise regularly and made greater progress toward achieving personal goals.
Robert Emmons, considered by many to be the world's leading expert on gratitude, reports that practicing gratitude can increase happiness levels by around 25%. Our basic levels of happiness are pre-set. If something bad happens, our happiness level drops temporarily but then returns to its set-point. If something good happens, then our happiness level rises for a while, then drops back to its set-point. Practicing gratitude re-calibrates your happiness set-point higher, so that you can remain at a higher level of happiness.
Dr. Emmons's research also shows that those who practise gratitude are more creative, more resilient to adversity, have stronger immune systems and have stronger social relationships.
How can you practise gratitude? By writing down the things you are grateful for.
For a list of ways to make your gratitude journal more effective, read Dr. Emmonds's research-based tips.
No comments:
Post a Comment