It is November and “gratitude” appears to be the guiding word of the month, at least in the U.S.A. where we are celebrating Thanksgiving, a major holiday here. For a short period of time our focus shifts from greed to gratitude. During this break from work, many forget how discouraged they recently felt for not having been promoted, their feeling of jealousy when a peer was praised in front of the entire staff while their efforts remained unmentioned, or how angry they were when it was announced that this year’s bonus payment was going to be cut short due to underperformance of the company. 

Many Western societies are focused on possessions as symbols of status and well-being. The big house with a pool, the latest luxury car, designer handbags, you name it. Employees work hard to the point of burning themselves out, just to get ahead in this race where the rules are unclear. All you know is you must get ahead and compete, because what are you left with when you stop racing? A lack of identity. 

I will admit that there was a point in my life when I was among those chasing after money, status, and title. I am not judging those who desire luxury or advancement in their careers, nor would I label them as “greedy”, for the universe is abundant and everyone deserves to go after their dreams. What I simply did not understand at the time is that “where your mind goes, energy flows,” and by focusing on what you already have, you will be rewarded by receiving more. 

I am amazed that the power of gratitude is still considered to be a secret in the year 2022. When I was searching for expressions of gratitude, I found that some of the oldest philosophers and world leaders such as Lao Tzu (604-531 BC), Epicurus (341-270 BC), Cicero (106-43 BC) and Marcus Aurelius (121-180) were spreading the word of its powers. 

For those who still need more convincing, here are some of the benefits associated with practicing gratitude:

• Reduces feelings of envy
• Makes you more empathetic toward others, especially those who are worse off
• Increases your sense of self-worth
• Enhances spiritualism
• Reduces feelings of anxiety and when practiced at night improves quality of sleep
• Deepens your relationships
• Improves your physical and emotional health
• Keeps you grounded

I experienced the benefits of practicing gratitude daily and observed an inner transformation to a more peaceful, grounded, and happy me. I highly recommend trying it out for yourself. Are you wondering how you can achieve the same results? Try journaling about the things you are grateful for first thing in the morning. Talk about the great things that happened to you at the dinner table. Include those experiences in your prayers at night. Count your blessings, not just in November, but every day in your life and observe the transformation of your inner self. Happy Thanksgiving!