One sure way to develop Complaint Restraint is to cultivate a Gratitude Attitude.
Thanksgiving is the best antidote to the poison of negativity. When I am conscious of the blessings in my life, I am less likely to grumble about life's irritations.
Just like any skill, cultivating that gratitude attitude does take some practice. However, with a little work, thankfulness transforms the way we look at the world. Here are some ways to practice thankfulness:
- Keep a gratitude journal. Every day write down 3 things for which you are grateful. Last year one of the small groups I was in did this for several weeks in a row. After two weeks one woman commented that she went into the assignment expecting no results, but was surprised at how this simple practice made her feel better about life.
- Use visual reminders. Put up sticky notes with gratitude scriptures or quotes.
- Think of the mundane. Gratitude is not limited to the big things in life. My mood will instantly lift when I remember to express thankfulness for the little things that make my life better: my microwave, my soft, fluffy robe, and dark chocolate!
- Avoid comparisons. When I compare my life to someone else's, I can easily find something to complain about. But if I focus on my blessings, gratitude flows instead.
- Keep a written list of your most precious blessings. Put the list in your purse or post it on your refrigerator. When you feel like complaining, look at your inventory of blessings.
Do you have other ideas to make gratitude a habit? Share them with us!
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