Allison Crane
Garland County Extension Service
Gratitude, derived from the Latin word "gratia," means gratefulness or thankfulness. In positive psychology, gratitude is the human way of acknowledging the good things in life. Psychologists have defined gratitude as a positive emotional response that we perceive on giving or receiving a benefit from someone.
Gratitude is an attitude that is cultivated over time. Having a grateful attitude does not mean one will not ever feel sad or unhappy, but it does give hope and help in those challenging times. Researchers overwhelmingly agree that the benefits of practicing gratitude consistently have positive effects on a person's physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
Families benefit from practicing gratitude in many ways. When family members express gratitude for one another connections are strengthened. Families also tend to be more resilient during stressful times when they practice gratitude. Children learn kindness and compassion when they hear expressions of gratitude and witness other family members' gratitude.
Developing a family culture of gratitude starts with regularly saying "thank you." Good manners create a standard of operation that includes respect and honor for everyone in the household. Gratitude cultivates a sense of lasting happiness in the family.
Family members can share what they are thankful for around the dinner table. Volunteer as a family to help with a community service project or to help a neighbor. Parents reinforce gratitude when they acknowledge times when children are being grateful. Parents can also ask children what they are thankful for after school instead of always asking about their day.
Researchers agree that keeping a gratitude journal is one of the best ways to develop a gratitude attitude. It doesn't have to be a lengthy entry. It may be a sentence or two. For young children, parents can write down what the children tell them.
Some people find a gratitude jar helpful. To start, write a gratitude thought for the day on a slip of paper and place it in a jar. Another recommendation is to write letters to people expressing gratitude. The important part is to take time to focus on being grateful and actually write it down.
Think about a way or ways you can develop your own gratitude attitude or a family culture of gratitude-you will improve your own overall wellness and encourage others.
November is the month we observe Thanksgiving. Does your family have a tradition such as sharing something or someone each member is thankful for? If not, this might be a good year to start!
To learn more ways to improve family and personal happiness, contact the Garland County Extension Service for resources and programs available for individuals or groups. Call 501-623-6841 or email [email protected].